Lepusha Albania is a peaceful mountain village surrounded by the high peaks of the Accursed Mountains. Set in the Kelmend region of northern Albania, it offers alpine meadows, forests, waterfalls and broad views toward both Albania and Montenegro. Our two-day visit combined village scenery with a hike toward Maja e Vajushës.
Where Is Lepusha Albania?
Lepushë lies in the Kelmend administrative area of Malësi e Madhe, deep in the northern Albanian Alps. The village stands at approximately 1,300 metres and is enclosed by mountains rising above 2,000 metres. Its altitude, open meadows and surrounding ridges give it a distinctly alpine character.
The official Albanian tourism page for Lepushë highlights the village’s valleys, forests, mountain scenery and traditional hospitality. Despite its remote atmosphere, the area can be approached from Shkodër through the Kelmend region or from the direction of Plav in Montenegro, depending on border and road arrangements.
The Journey Through Leqet e Hotit
One of the most memorable sights on the way is Leqet e Hotit, a dramatic sequence of bends climbing above the valley toward Tamarë and Selcë. Seen from above, the road forms a striking pattern across the mountainside and creates a natural introduction to the landscapes of Kelmend.
The journey is part of the experience. As the road gains height, the scenery changes from lower valleys to steep slopes and high mountain settlements. Travellers should allow time for viewpoints and check road conditions, particularly outside the main summer season.
Hiking to Maja e Vajushës
Kosovo Mountain Club organised our adventure in Lepushë and the hike toward Maja e Vajushës. From the mountain, the surrounding Accursed Mountains open in every direction. The terrain feels remote, while the village remains visible below as a small settlement among large peaks.
A hike around Maja e Vajushës should be matched to the season, weather and ability of the group. Conditions can change quickly at altitude, so suitable footwear, layers, water and reliable route information are important. When snow is present, the outing can require winter skills and equipment beyond those needed for a summer hike.
Views Toward Karanfilat
From Lepusha Albania, hikers can see the distinctive Karanfil peaks across the border in Montenegro. These mountains are part of the same Accursed Mountains range and create one of the most impressive panoramas from the village. Their rocky profiles contrast with the green meadows and forests closer to Lepushë.
The view explains why the area appeals to photographers, hikers and travellers looking for quiet mountain landscapes. It is possible to enjoy the setting from the village itself, while longer walks reveal new perspectives on the valleys and neighbouring summits.
Selcë Waterfall and the Kelmend Region
On the following day, we visited the waterfall near Selcë. Seasonal snowmelt can make the water especially powerful, and the limestone setting adds another dimension to a trip otherwise focused on mountain ridges. Albania’s official tourism site describes the Selcë Waterfall in Kelmend as a protected natural monument and one of the notable waterfalls of the Albanian Alps.
Lepushë and Selcë work well together in the same journey. Visitors experience mountain villages, high viewpoints and a natural attraction without leaving the wider Kelmend landscape.
Planning a Visit to Lepusha Albania
Weather and transport should be checked before departure, especially in spring, autumn and winter. Guesthouses and other services may be limited or seasonal, so confirming accommodation ahead of time is sensible. Respect village property, carry out waste and support local families where possible.
For a longer supported journey, begin with our Peaks of the Balkans guided open group for 2027. You can also explore all Wilderness Balkans tours or contact our local team for help planning a mountain trip in Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro.
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