Location: Librajd County
Area: 33,928 hectares
Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park, often referred to as Shebenik
National Park, is a vast protected area in eastern Albania,
bordering North Macedonia. Spanning 34,507.9 hectares (approximately
345 square kilometers), it encompasses rugged mountain landscapes,
ancient forests, glacial lakes, and diverse ecosystems. Established
to preserve one of the Balkans' most pristine wilderness areas, the
park lies primarily in the Librazhd District of Elbasan County, with
extensions into neighboring regions. It serves as a critical habitat
for endangered species like the Balkan lynx and forms part of the
European Green Belt initiative, promoting cross-border conservation.
The park's name derives from its two dominant massifs: Mount
Shebenik (2,253 meters) and Mount Jabllanicë (2,257 meters),
offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking
untouched Albanian wilderness.
The park's geography is characterized by dramatic
alpine topography, shaped by glacial activity and tectonic forces. It
features steep ridges, deep valleys, and karst formations, with
elevations ranging from 300 meters in the river valleys to over 2,200
meters at the summits. The Shebenik and Jabllanicë massifs dominate the
landscape, composed mainly of serpentine and limestone rocks, which
contribute to unique soil conditions supporting rare plant species.
Numerous glacial lakes dot the higher altitudes, including Liqeni i Madh
(Big Lake) and smaller cirque lakes, fed by melting snow and mountain
springs. Rivers such as the Bushtricë and Qarrishtë carve through the
terrain, creating canyons and waterfalls that enhance the park's scenic
appeal.
The climate is continental with Mediterranean influences,
featuring cold, snowy winters (average temperatures dropping to -5°C)
and mild summers (up to 25°C). Annual precipitation exceeds 1,500 mm,
supporting lush vegetation zones that transition from Mediterranean
shrublands at lower elevations to subalpine meadows above 1,800 meters.
The park's location along the Albanian-Macedonian border facilitates
ecological connectivity, allowing wildlife to migrate freely across the
frontier.
Human presence in the Shebenik-Jabllanicë area dates
back to prehistoric times, with evidence of Illyrian settlements and
later Roman influences in nearby valleys. During the Ottoman era, the
region was sparsely populated by pastoral communities, with villages
like Steblevë and Qarrishtë serving as herding outposts. The 20th
century brought logging and mining pressures, but post-communist Albania
shifted toward conservation.
The park was officially designated in
2008 by the Albanian government, expanding on earlier protections from
1996 when parts were declared a protected landscape. This move aligned
with international efforts, including Albania's commitments under the
Convention on Biological Diversity. In 2017, the park's ancient beech
forests were inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site
"Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions
of Europe," recognizing their global ecological value. Conservation
initiatives have involved collaborations with organizations like the
Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA)
and international partners, focusing on sustainable development amid
challenges like illegal logging and climate change. As of 2025, ongoing
projects emphasize ecotourism and community involvement to balance
preservation with local livelihoods.
Shebenik-Jabllanicë boasts exceptional biodiversity,
harboring 32% of Albania's total flora within its boundaries, making it
a hotspot for endemic and rare species.
Flora
The park's
vegetation is zoned by altitude: Lower slopes feature Mediterranean oaks
(Quercus ilex) and hornbeams, transitioning to mixed deciduous forests
of European beech (Fagus sylvatica) and black pine (Pinus nigra). Higher
elevations host Balkan endemic species like Macedonian pine (Pinus
peuce) and Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii), alongside alpine meadows
rich in edelweiss, gentians, and orchids. Ancient beech stands, some
over 500 years old, form dense canopies that support unique
microhabitats. Rare plants include the Albanian lily (Lilium albanicum)
and various ferns adapted to serpentine soils.
Fauna
Wildlife
thrives due to the park's isolation and varied habitats. Large mammals
include the brown bear (Ursus arctos), gray wolf (Canis lupus), and the
critically endangered Balkan lynx (Lynx lynx balcanicus), with fewer
than 50 individuals estimated in the wild. Other notable species are the
chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), wildcat (Felis silvestris), Eurasian
otter (Lutra lutra), and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). Birdlife is
abundant, with over 140 species recorded, including golden eagles
(Aquila chrysaetos), peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), and black
woodpeckers (Dryocopus martius). Reptiles and amphibians, such as the
Albanian water frog (Pelophylax shqipericus), add to the diversity,
while invertebrates like rare butterflies flourish in the meadows.
The park offers a range of attractions for visitors:
Hiking
and Trekking: Well-marked trails lead to summits like Mount Shebenik,
glacial lakes, and viewpoints. Popular routes include the Qarrishtë
Valley trail (moderate, 10 km) and the ascent to Liqeni i Madh
(challenging, offering panoramic views).
Glacial Lakes and
Waterfalls: Explore serene lakes formed by Pleistocene glaciers, ideal
for picnics and photography.
Villages and Cultural Sites: Traditional
settlements like Steblevë provide insights into rural Albanian life,
with guesthouses offering local cuisine such as grilled meats and byrek.
Wildlife Watching: Guided tours for spotting lynx or bears, best in
spring or autumn.
Adventure Sports: Opportunities for mountain
biking, rock climbing, and winter snowshoeing.
Access is via
Librazhd (1-2 hours from Tirana) or Pogradec, with 4x4 vehicles
recommended for remote areas. Entry is free, but permits may be needed
for certain zones.
As an IUCN Category II protected area, the park focuses on ecosystem preservation while allowing sustainable tourism. Challenges include illegal hunting, logging, and climate-induced habitat shifts, addressed through monitoring by PPNEA and EU-funded projects. In 2025, ecotourism is growing, with around 10,000 annual visitors (up from pre-pandemic levels), supported by improved infrastructure like visitor centers in Fushe-Studën. Community-based initiatives empower locals through beekeeping and guiding services. Best visited from May to October for mild weather, the park remains a symbol of Albania's commitment to biodiversity, offering an authentic escape into nature's embrace.
Hotel Hasa, Stebleve
Phone. 0682158475
Linda Complex, Librazhd
Phone. +355 69 224 1774