Fushë-Krujë: Hotels between history and nature

Fushë-Krujë combines archaeological traces, natural destinations, and cultural sites. The spectrum ranges from the ruins of ancient Albanopolis and protected landscapes to thermal baths, traditional crafts, and notable memorial sites.

Culture

Archaeological research connects Albanopolis with settlement by the Albanian tribe from the 4th century BC onward. The ruins are located on a hill in the southern section of the national road between Krujë and Fushë-Krujë. A 90-metre-long stone wall with three towers remains from the city; Albanopolis was also divided into the Acropolis, the Middle City, and the Small City.

There are around ten tunnels on Zgërdhesh Hill. They were built between 1945 and 1990 as part of a communist military base. The military tunnels from this period are located in the Fushë Krujë administrative unit, about 5 km from the centre of Fushë-Krujë.

Regional culture is also reflected in traditional crafts. The Krujë region is known for copperwork, woolwork, and silversmithing, as well as the production of qeleshe caps, woodcarving, embroidery, and weaving. The tekke of Fushë-Krujë is associated with the year 1562 and Father Ali. Another special feature is the statue of President George W. Bush: it is 2.85 metres high and depicts George W. Bush with his left hand raised.

The plaque on the statue's pedestal records George W. Bush's visit to Albania in 2007 and describes him as a great friend of the Albanians. The statue was unveiled on 6 July 2011 and is said to have been erected at the place where Bush delivered a public address in 2007.

Nature

Qafë-Shtamë was designated a nature park in protection category IV by Decision No. 60 of 26 January 2022. In Fushë-Krujë, Rrepet e Arramerasit is among the natural monuments listed for Krujë in the report of the Durrës Prefecture. The Fushë-Krujë selvie is listed as a category III natural monument and as a resource for nature tourism.

The natural setting also includes Gryka e Zezë. It features karst caves and large boulders in the riverbed that have broken away from the sides of the gorge, creating the impression of a natural bridge.

Trails and activities

In Qafë-Shtamë Nature Park, visitors can enjoy walks, hikes, photography, picnics, observing the local flora and fauna, and exploring mountain trails. The ascent along the Skanderbeg Trail covers around 3.71 km and takes approximately two and a half hours; Lake Peak reaches an elevation of 1,725 metres.

One of the special places in Fushë-Krujë is Llixha Bilaj. This family-run thermal spa offers natural mineral baths.

Getting there

The road to Krujë passes through the Kamëz junction and over the Tapizë Bridge. After leaving the Tirana–Lezhë motorway, it turns towards Fushë-Krujë.

For further orientation, you can also choose Rinas, Tapizë, Shetaj, Maminas, Shkallnur, Kruja District, Shijak and Durrës.

For the higher-level travel overview: Durrës County.