Get away for a day: Pellumbas Cave

For a refreshing break from the city heat and noise, the Pellumbas Cave, only 27 kilometers from Tirana, offers the ideal getaway. Fresh air and picturesque landscapes provide the perfect setting for a rejuvenating walk, a swim in the river, and even some ancient history. From the village of Pellumbas, a two kilometer guided walk to the cave is offered. The walk is along a well-kept path which runs through the beautiful Skorana Gorge. Considered by experts to be one of the most unique archeological sites in Albania, the commonly-called “Black Cave,” is 360 meters deep and 45 meters high. Though it is currently full of breathtaking stalactites, the cave was once home to prehistoric bears, whose skeletons were confirmed by the Museum of Natural Sciences of Florence University to date as far back as 400, 000 years. Later, the cave was also inhabited by humans, as numerous artifacts from the Neolithic, bronze, and iron ages have been found. Getting to Pellumbas village and cave is relatively simple. Buses, which depart from Rruga Elbasan, are available in the early morning. Some travel agencies also offer package deals which include transport and guided tours to and from the cave.
Further information may be found at www.shpellaepellumbasit.com