Permet Thermal Baths & Langarica Canyon: Private Day Trip

Summary

Permet’s mineral springs meet wild canyon hikes near Vjosa river

You’ll soak in Permet’s famous thermal baths as steam rises around you, walk ancient stone bridges near Kadiut Bridge, and explore wild Langarica Canyon with a local guide who knows every story. Expect mineral scents on your skin and quiet moments by crystal waters—a day that lingers long after you leave southern Albania behind.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway across the old stone bridge when our guide, Ardit, stopped to point out the steam curling up from the pools below. The sulfur smell hit first—kind of sharp but not unpleasant—and then this weird calm set in. I’d seen photos of the Permet Thermal Baths before, but standing there, you feel how the heat rises off the water even as the breeze from the Vjosa river chills your arms. There were a few locals soaking quietly, faces half-hidden by mist, and someone had left a plastic bag of oranges on a rock. I still wonder if they ever came back for it.

Getting into the water was stranger than I expected—slick stones underfoot, way hotter than any pool at home. Ardit laughed when I flinched (he said it’s always like that at first). He told us stories about how people come from all over Albania for these mineral springs—some swear it helps their knees or backs. Maybe it does? I just liked floating there, staring up at green hills and that blue sky with nothing to do except listen to water bubbling up through cracks in the rock.

After we dried off (my towel smelled faintly like sulfur for hours), we followed a narrow path along Langarica Canyon. It’s only about 6 km from the baths, but it feels much wilder—towering cliffs on both sides and birds darting overhead. You can hear the river echoing below before you see it. At one point, Ardit pointed out a cave where shepherds sometimes sleep if they get caught out late. I tried to imagine spending a night there; honestly, I’d probably just worry about spiders.

The hike wasn’t hard but you do have to watch your step—the rocks are slick and mossy in places. There were moments of total silence except for our footsteps and that distant rush of water. And then suddenly we’d round a bend and see sunlight pouring through onto bright green moss or someone swimming down in the river (looked freezing). We didn’t rush; nobody seemed in a hurry out here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit thermal baths and explore canyon

• Visit Këlcyrë Gorge
• Relax at Benja thermal baths
• Hike and explore Langarica Canyon

Top questions

How far are Permet Thermal Baths from Langarica Canyon?

The canyon is about 6 km away from the thermal baths—an easy drive or walk between them.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

The tour includes private transportation but doesn’t specify hotel pickup; check with your provider.

Are the Permet Thermal Baths really hot?

The water temperature ranges from 26°C to 32°C—warm enough for a relaxing soak but not scalding.

Can you swim in Langarica Canyon?

Yes, swimming is possible in parts of Langarica Canyon where the river is accessible and safe.

Is lunch included during this day trip?

No lunch is mentioned; bring snacks or ask your guide about local food stops nearby.

Are there caves near Këlcyrë Gorge?

Yes, Mezhgoran and Dragot caves are located on the east side of Këlcyrë Gorge along the route.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to uneven terrain.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation throughout southern Albania, entry fees to both Permet Thermal Baths and Langarica Canyon areas, plus guidance from an English-speaking local who shares stories along every stretch of road or trail—even if you’re just pausing to dry off by the riverbank.