Attraction in Albania
Permet & Bënja Thermal Springs
A charming southern town famous for gliko (fruit preserves) and natural hot springs set in a stunning canyon. The thermal baths offer a peaceful retreat with crystal-clear pools at varying temperatures surrounded by pristine nature.
Përmet is a small town in the Gjirokastra County of southern Albania, situated in the Vjosa River valley where it cuts through the Nemërçka and Dhëmbël mountain ranges. The town is best known in Albania for its production of gliko — preserved fruits, usually made from citrus, roses, or walnuts, cooked in sugar syrup — and for its position as the gateway to the Bënja Thermal Springs and the broader Vjosa River natural park area. The Bënja Thermal Springs emerge along the banks of the Lengarica River within a narrow canyon approximately 10 kilometres from Përmet town. The springs feed a series of open-air natural pools where mineral-rich thermal water at temperatures between 20°C and 30°C flows directly into the rocky basin. The canyon walls of the Lengarica Gorge rise on both sides, the river runs clear and fast nearby, and a 17th-century Ottoman stone bridge — the Katiu Bridge — stands a short walk downstream from the main pool area. Përmet is rarely visited by international tourists, which gives both the town and the springs a genuine off-the-beaten-path quality that more famous Albanian attractions have lost. The town itself has a small pedestrian centre with traditional restaurants serving Gjirokastra-region cuisine, local wine from the Përmet grape variety (one of the few indigenous Albanian wine grapes), and gliko from family producers. Several homestyle guesthouses operate in Përmet, making it a practical base for hiking in the Nemërçka range or day trips to Gjirokastër, approximately 45 minutes by road. The springs require a nominal entrance fee of approximately 200 lek (under 2 EUR). Facilities are basic — changing areas and a small café at the entrance — but adequate. The approach through the Lengarica Canyon involves a short walk on a well-trodden path, and the combination of thermal bathing, canyon scenery, and the Katiu Bridge makes the site one of the most complete natural experiences in southern Albania. Road access from Gjirokastër is along a paved but winding mountain road. No direct public transport serves the springs; visitors without a car typically arrange transport through accommodation in Përmet town.
Highlights
- Natural thermal pools at 20–30°C within the scenic Lengarica Canyon, fed by mineral-rich hot springs
- 17th-century Ottoman Katiu Bridge visible a short walk from the main soaking area
- Përmet town known for gliko (preserved fruits) and local Përmet-variety wine from small family producers
- Minimal international tourist presence, preserving an authentic southern Albanian atmosphere
- Base for hiking in the Nemërçka Mountains and day trips to nearby Gjirokastër
Tips
- Bring a towel and swimsuit; rental options at the springs are limited
- Arrange transport from Përmet town in advance as there is no scheduled public transport to the springs
- Visit local gliko producers in Përmet town for hand-made preserved fruit to take home
- Combine a morning at the springs with lunch at a traditional restaurant in Përmet town centre
- Visit in spring or autumn to avoid peak summer crowds and enjoy full water flow in the Lengarica River
FAQ
How far are the Bënja springs from Përmet town?
The springs are approximately 10 kilometres from the centre of Përmet, a drive of about 15–20 minutes on a winding road through the Lengarica Canyon. There is parking near the entrance.
Is the Përmet area good for hiking?
Yes. The Nemërçka and Dhëmbël mountain ranges offer several established hiking routes, and the Vjosa River valley has marked trails. A local guide is recommended for longer mountain routes, and trail conditions vary seasonally.
What is gliko and where can it be bought in Përmet?
Gliko is a traditional Albanian preserve made from whole fruits — commonly bitter orange, walnut, or rose petals — cooked slowly in sugar syrup. Përmet is one of the main production centres in Albania, and several family shops and small producers in the town sell it directly to visitors.
Is accommodation available in Përmet?
Yes, several small guesthouses and homestays operate in Përmet town. Booking in advance is advisable in summer, as the area attracts increasing numbers of Albanian domestic tourists.
Accessibility
The path to the Bënja Thermal Springs is unpaved and involves a gentle descent through the canyon on rocky terrain. Wheelchair access is not feasible. The thermal pools are in the river basin without constructed access ramps. The Përmet town centre is relatively flat and more navigable.
When to visit
Spring (April–May) is the best season: the Lengarica River is at full flow, temperatures are comfortable for both hiking and bathing, and visitor numbers are low. Summer weekends in July and August are noticeably busier at the springs.