Discovering Ancient Epirus: MILOSAO’s New Cultural Journey Through Albania, Greece and North Macedonia

MILOSAO – Popoli e Culture is promoting a new group journey dedicated to discovering Albania and the Balkans through an itinerary combining history, culture, nature and religious traditions.

Scheduled to take place from 29 April to 4 May, the journey will cross three countries — Albania, Greece and North Macedonia — following the historical traces of ancient Epirus and introducing participants to historic cities, lakeside landscapes, religious monuments and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

One of the main destinations will be Ohrid, widely known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” because of its extraordinary historical and spiritual heritage. Overlooking Lake Ohrid, the city is considered one of the most fascinating cultural destinations in the Balkan region.

The journey will continue to Gjirokastër, the famous “stone city”, characterised by its traditional houses, cobbled streets and historic centre of outstanding cultural importance. Both Ohrid and Gjirokastër are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The programme also includes a visit to Korça, known for its rich cultural and musical traditions, the picturesque village of Lin on the shores of Lake Ohrid, and Ioannina, an important historical centre of Greek Epirus located near Lake Pamvotida.

Special attention will also be given to the region’s religious heritage. Participants will visit some of the area’s most fascinating Orthodox churches and the renowned Monastery of Saint Naum, a place of great spirituality surrounded by an exceptional natural landscape.

The itinerary will also offer the opportunity to admire two remarkable lakes: Lake Ohrid and Lake Pamvotida, both of which reflect the extraordinary natural and cultural richness of the Balkans.

Through this initiative, MILOSAO renews its commitment to promoting dialogue between peoples and cultures, recognising travel as an opportunity for learning, exchange and a deeper understanding of shared historical roots.

Summary of the itinerary

29 April: departure from Lecce and ferry journey to Durrës
30 April: Durrës, Korça and Pogradec
1 May: Lin, Ohrid, Saint Naum and Pogradec
2 May: Ioannina and Gjirokastër
3 May: visit to Gjirokastër and transfer to the Port of Vlorë
4 May: arrival in Brindisi and return to Lecce

Participation fees start from €525 per person, with different accommodation options available.