Permet is still a relatively undiscovered gem, with some of the most beautiful scenery, interesting history, and delicious food in Albania.
It’s known as the City of Roses and the cleanest and greenest city in Albania.
In the 14th century, Permet was taken over by Ottoman rule, as can be noticed also today with the old Ottoman bridges. Locals believe that the city was named in the Middle Ages after a hero who was called Premt.
According to local stories, Premt was the ruler of the fortress which was situated upon the famous big rock in the centre of the city. When Permet was invaded he threw himself off the Big Rock because he would rather die than suffer a hard death by the enemies.
Start your visit by walking up the giant rock in the city center and enjoy the stunning view of the city and the Vjosa river. At the top, there are also remains of some ruins that date back to the 4th century!
See below some of our suggestions to make your stay in Permet even more memorable.
Bënjë Thermal Baths
The source of these thermal baths are sulphur springs that emanate from deep tectonic faults on both sides of the Lengarica Canyon. There are six relaxing natural thermal baths and each source possesses different therapeutic properties for the treatment of skin diseases, stomach, kidney, and rheumatism. Next to the baths you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Langarica Canyon.
Langaricë Canyon
The Katiu Bridge, an 18 th-century Ottoman-era construction, marks the beginning of the Lengarica Canyon, a magnificent five-kilometer canyon where adventurers can journey along the banks of the crystal-clear river, passing through steep, 150-meter-high rocky canyon slopes. Considered one of the most scenic canyons in Albania, it is perfect for kayaking. Hikers should keep their eyes open for caves with prehistoric settlements that can be seen along the canyon road.
Katiu Bridge
The picturesque Ottoman bridge of Katiu, built during the medieval period, is surrounded by natural thermal springs and has amazing views of the wild river and the countryside.
Vjosa Valley
The Vjosa Valley offers stunning views along the entire length of the Vjosa River, the last wild river in Europe, and is an excellent ecotourism destination. The river originates in the Pindus Mountains in Ioannina, Greece, and flows into the Adriatic Sea with 192 of its 272 kilometers within the territory of Albania. The river offers impressive natural spectacles, great activities such as water sports, and interesting habitats for several migratory birds.
Fir of Hotova National Park
Also known as the "natural lungs" of southern Albania, the Fir of Hotova National Park, with an area of 1400 hectares, is one of the most picturesque sites in the country.
Permet is also another Albanian city proud of its religious tolerance. With its many churches, mosques and tekkes it is a great example of the natural cohabitation of all faiths in Albania.
Pay a visit to the Saint Mary Church, this 17th century church in Leusa, the Saint Friday Church from 1776 which survived its destruction under communism and the Tekke of Baba Ali, an important place of worship for Bektashi believers from the 18th century. From here, visitors have a front-row seat to the Vjosa Valley.
Do not leave Permet without tasting its amazing cuisine. The city is part of the slow food movement and is well known for its brandy, raki and fruit preserves.
