Oct 28, 2024 – Rural tourism in Albania has experienced significant growth in recent years, attracting visitors eager to explore the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. However, small businesses face considerable challenges in this sector. Many rural areas lack adequate road infrastructure, and families seeking to provide tourist services need support to thrive.
In the Nepravishte plain below Bureto Mountain, Gëzim Shuti turned his farm into a guest destination five years ago, starting it as an experiment. With the construction of initial sleeping quarters, the Shuti family has begun attracting attention through immersive farm experiences, offering visitors a taste of rural life and tranquillity.
“It began with a simple idea from my children in 2019,” Gëzim explains. Inspired by similar models, they started with one building, and as interest grew, they expanded. “It’s peaceful here, and nearly everything we serve comes from the farm.”
While the Shuti farm provides an inviting atmosphere, it can accommodate only eight guests at a time. Gëzim laments the financial constraints that hinder further development. “Most of our tourists come from Germany,” he notes, hoping for government support for agribusiness. “We need assistance to improve our services, especially accommodations.”
Agribusiness expert Besnik Ismailati points out the cultural significance of inns in Albania. “These are family-run businesses where guests experience genuine hospitality and traditional meals. They also contribute to the local economy by sourcing agricultural and livestock products from the surrounding area.”
Libohova, a town known for its natural assets, has potential for agritourism. Ismailati speaks highly of Bureto Mountain, famous for its beautiful vistas and diverse flora. “Medicinal plants flourish here, including the endemic Bureto mountain tea that thrives at high altitudes. The local pastures enhance the quality of meat and dairy products—Libohova is known for its cheese.”
In the shadow of Libohova’s castle, Agush Hide has opened a guesthouse this year. Since May, he has welcomed visitors eager for adventure, including guided trips to Bureto Mountain. “We’re still finding our feet, but I’d say we’re satisfied with our progress so far,” he shares. “Tourist numbers fluctuate, especially with winter approaching, but we’ve seen a healthy number of reservations.”
Agush acknowledges the challenges of entering the tourism sector. “It’s a new experience for us, and we are navigating unfamiliar territory. Our location is strategic, close to the castle, and our family’s tradition of cooking has helped ease our initial concerns about this venture.”
Promotion, he asserts, is essential. “What we really need is visibility to attract more visitors.”
Ismailati agrees, calling for support for hostels to source local agricultural and livestock products. He believes state programs should focus on fostering tourism activities that complement these businesses.
According to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, around 4.5 million visitors explored Albania’s protected areas and natural resources from January to September this year. Experts consider rural tourism a promising sector for the Albanian economy, though its contribution to income generation is still modest. They call for the government to promote these services while safeguarding Albania’s natural landscapes from unregulated development that could undermine ecotourism values.
