Bureto Mountain, reaching 1763 meters above sea level, is located close to the Albanian-Greek border. It is defined by its wide limestone ridge and unique karst terrain, complete with natural sinkholes and pits. Formerly a military zone, remnants of Albania’s isolation-era fortifications are still visible across the mountaintop. The summit rewards hikers with far-reaching views over the Drinos Valley, the historic city of Gjirokastra, and, in clear weather, even to the Greek coastline and Corfu Island.

This full-day adventure begins in the village of Labovë e Kryqit, known for its historical church and tranquil setting.
The trail initially follows an old military gravel road that steadily climbs through mixed terrain: scrub, grassland, and rocky outcrops.
As you reach 1500m altitude, the trail transitions into a high ridge path. Here, karst formations begin to dominate the landscape: deep limestone funnels, scattered sinkholes, and rugged plateaus marked by sparse vegetation. Remnants of Albania’s military past appear subtly in the landscape: concrete bunkers and abandoned outposts now slowly reclaimed by nature.
Upon reaching the summit at 1763 meters, a vast open ridge stretches before you.
The hike follows the same trail back down, offering a chance to appreciate the varied landscape from a different angle.

• Hike’s difficulty: 2/5
• Total ascent: 1250 m
• Total descent: 1250 m
• Distance: 17 km
• Time of the hike: 8 hours (Hiking time without breaks)

This trail starts and ends at the trailhead at the village of Labovë e Kryqit. The best way to get to the starting point of this hike is with a private vehicle. You can use your own vehicle, rent one yourself or through us.