Hiking to Sotira Waterfall - Things to do in Berat

A Spectacular Revelation

Waters flowing from Mount Tomorr into rugged limestone cliffs create the Sotira Waterfall, one of nature’s spectacles that attracts an increasing number of tourists year after year. Its waters fall from various heights of 20-100 meters, hitting the cliffs below at different speeds and creating an unforgettable, hypnotic scene!

Your journey toward Sotira Waterfall begins in the town Berat (district of Elbasan) which, situated only. The winding road is unpaved so it may take about 1.5 h with 4×4 vehicle to get to the starting point . Once you arrive in the small village, you will have to hike for about an hour and a half. In winter, it is a bit more challenging and sometimes impossible to pass it.

On the way to the waterfall you will not miss the fantastic lakes of Dardhe – All scenery is magnificent

2 Lakes of Dardhe

Man-made but looking so natural. Surrounded by greenery and crystal clear blue water, it makes you think you are in a fairy tale.

Both lakes are supplied with water by streams created by melting snow. Their location is very fantastic and offers a magnificent view of Mount Tomorri.

On the way back it is good to relax here and swim

the area is not touristic

Views of the hike through old villages ,valleys ,Tomorr mountain

The surrounding nature is untouched, bathed in astounding greenery and freshness created by the several springs scattered throughout the trail. At the end, the waterfall appears in all its glory! Thanks to a beautiful meadow nearby, you will be able to enjoy the spectacular views and the surrounding scenery. This one is definitely for the virgin nature lovers!

The Sotira River, created by the waterfall, flows throughout the surrounding forest, giving the already awe-inspiring panorama the perfect frame. With the right pair of shoes, you may even be able to get closer to the waterfall. A path has been created throughout the years to maximize the whole experience. Walk with care as the terrain can be a tad slippery!

To conclude, you may jot down some of your personal reflections inspired by this place. “Beauty will save the world” once wrote the great Russian writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Though you may have heard this phrase before, it takes some particularly beautiful places to bring it to life and imbue it with its full meaning. Here you will find traces of nature in its original, untouched glory. And, while the Sotira Waterfall will not save the world, the lucky ones who get to witness its beauty may feel encouraged to do so. This is one for the books!

Itinerary to Sotira Waterfall – off road vehicle required

The trip is fairly simple, following the road from Berat to Dardhe village . As you are in Dardhe village at the place called Cesma e Tarikos ( a small fountain ) follow the road going in the left -direction of the Lakes of Dardhe . On the right side of the lakes there is a road – Follow the road always the left one for about 1.5 km

After that you will see a village – and a small canyon – proceed on the left side of the canyon

About 1 km hike another small village – From there you can see the waterfall

There you can grab something to eat or drink at the small village diner/shop, and begin your hike. We would suggest bringing some food along for the hike. By doing so you can enjoy an idyllic picnic with a spectacular view in the meadow by the waterfall. Length of Hike: about 6 kilometers.

Our advice

As you approach the actual waterfall, the terrain becomes increasingly challenging. The descent into the gorge to the foot of the waterfall is about 30 meters on a slippery and exposed path so make sure you wear appropriate shoes to get really close!

Additional info

Locals are offering transport with 4×4 vehicle from Berat to Dardhe village

From the village to the waterfall locals are offering mule transport

Accommodation in local houses offered in Qafe Dardhe Village