Hailed as Albania's cleanest and greenest city, Përmet is an excellent choice for a countryside getaway. The city of roses is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, folkloric music, hot springs, and exquisite cuisine, particularly the sweet delicacy "gliko." After hiking through the surrounding valleys and mountains, local tavernas will serve you fine wine or raki as an aperitif.

History

Formerly known as Tryfilia, Përmet received its current name from the hero Premt who, according to legend, chose to leap from the "City Stone" located in the town's center rather than surrender to his enemies. Founded during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries as an administrative center, the city prospered through trade. While the town had roughly forty houses in the 1430s, it had grown to nearly 136 houses by the sixteenth century. Repeatedly burned during World War II, Përmet played an important role in Albanian political history. The Congress of Përmet in 1944 established the provisional government, preceding the communist regime.

Përmet Today

Situated approximately 70 km from Gjirokastër, on the banks of the Vjosa River about thirty kilometers from the Greek border, Përmet is a small town spanning 120 hectares, of which 99,000 m² consist of green spaces. Valleys and mountains border the town, with the highest peaks being Nëmërçkë (2,485 m), Dhëmbel (2,080 m), and Trebeshina (1,922 m). The countryside dominates the outskirts, while roses adorn the town squares and historic residences. Numerous events enliven local life throughout the year, including the Përmet Wine Festival, the International Multicultural Festival, and rallying, rafting competitions, and more.

Key Sites to Visit in Përmet

The Great Stone of Përmet is the unmissable landmark. Standing on the riverbank, it holds countless legends surrounding the hero Premt. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, it served as an observation post for caravans approaching the town. Myths suggest the site is protected by spirits and that it is not without risk to walk there at night. The second major attraction in Përmet is the Church of Saint Nicholas, founded in 1757 and restored in 1967. At the base of its freshly painted facade, multicolored flowers and rows of cypress trees in its garden create a splendid scene. Although the church is generally not accessible to tourists, the exterior view alone is enchanting. In the upper part of the town, you can still see the remains of Bolenga Castle. Do not miss the House of the Three Frashëri Brothers, prominent figures of the national Renaissance, which holds the status of first-category cultural monument and national heritage.

Përmet's Thermal Springs

Përmet is also known for its hot springs, whose healing properties are strongly recommended by medical professionals. Nestled along the edges of the Langarica Canyon, they attract hundreds of tourists each year. The waters help treat skin diseases, rheumatism, and digestive issues. Of course, you can simply enjoy a moment of relaxation.

Just 200 meters from the pools, Langarica Canyon rises between 30 and 150 meters in height. Inside, in addition to the springs, you will discover several caves, a rich diversity of aromatic trees and shrubs. The Langarica River, considered a blessed river by locals, flows through the rocks. The surrounding landscape of forests, mountains, and streams offers a memorable view.

Climate

The Përmet region enjoys a warm temperate climate, classified as Csa on the Köppen-Geiger scale. Rainfall is less abundant in summer than in winter. The average annual temperature stands at 14.1°C. Average annual precipitation is 1,333 mm.

If you are in Greece, buses to Përmet are available from Athens. The journey typically takes 7 to 8 hours. You will be dropped off at Përmet's main square. From Gjirokastër, 70 km away, the trip takes approximately one hour. Buses depart from the main roundabout on the north side of town. Along the way, you will pass through the beautiful Drino Valley and the spectacular Kelcyre Gorges. Buses also connect Përmet to Tirana. Departures from the Albanian capital run every two hours starting at 12:30 pm until 5 pm. Allow approximately five hours to cover the 220 km of road.

Përmet is a small town. As such, it is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.

What to Do in Përmet?

• Photograph the Përmet rock
• Admire the Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church
• Visit the former residence of the Frashëri brothers
• Enjoy the thermal springs of Përmet
• Explore Langarica Canyon, and more