10 Best Things to Do in Permet, Albania: Your 2025 Guide

Permet is officially Albania’s "Adventure Capital" and "Greenest Town." Whether you are looking to soak in ancient thermal springs, raft down Europe's last wild river, or hike through untouched canyons, this region has it all. Staying at KUTAL PARK INN puts you right in the heart of the action, located exactly next to the peaceful Kutal Village.Here is our local guide to the absolute best things to do in Permet.

1. Soak in the Benja Thermal Baths (Banjat e Bënjës)

The most iconic attraction in Permet. These natural sulfur springs remain around 22-28°C year-round.

• Local Tip: Don't just stay in the first pool by the bridge! Walk 10 minutes further into the canyon to find smaller, "hidden" pools that are much quieter.

2. Cross the Kadiu Ottoman Bridge

Right above the thermal baths stands the Kadiu Bridge, a 19th-century masterpiece. It’s the perfect spot for photography and offers a stunning view of the Lengarica Canyon opening up behind it.

3. Raft the Vjosa River National Park

The Vjosa is the last wild river in Europe. Vjosa River rafting is a must-do for any visitor. The rapids are generally Class 2 or 3, making it exciting but safe for beginners and families.

• Stay with us: Kutal Park Inn is just minutes from the riverbanks, making us the perfect base for your rafting gear and early-morning starts.

4. Hike the Lengarica Canyon

This 5km long canyon is a natural wonder. During the summer, you can actually hike through the riverbed itself. Look up to see cliffs reaching 150 meters high and keep an eye out for the "Pigeon Caves."

5. Climb the City Stone (Guri i Qytetit)

You can’t miss the massive rock in the middle of Permet town. A set of stairs leads to the top, where you’ll find ancient ruins and the best panoramic view of the Vjosa Valley.

6. Visit the Church of St. Mary in Leusa

A 30-minute hike from Permet town takes you to Leusa. This 18th-century Orthodox church is famous for its incredibly preserved frescoes and intricate wood carvings. It is a peaceful, spiritual place that feels frozen in time.

7. Explore Fir of Hotova National Park

The largest national park in Albania! It’s a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. The air here is the cleanest in the country, filled with the scent of the rare  Fir trees.

8. Discover the Authentic Kutal Village

While most tourists stay in the town center, staying at Kutal Park Inn allows you to experience Kutal Village. Walk the stone-paved paths, meet the local farmers who supply our restaurant, and enjoy the absolute silence of the mountains at night.

9. Taste Traditional Gliko & Slow Food

Permet is a certified Slow Food destination. You must try Gliko (whole fruit preserves). Our restaurant at Kutal Park Inn specializes in these traditions, serving everything from walnut gliko to traditional Shqeto soup.

10. Horse Riding & ATV Adventures

For those who want to see the mountains without hiking, local tours offer horse trekking through the hills of Kutal and Benja, or high-adrenaline ATV tours through the rugged terrain of the valley.