La Farma Sotira stands among Albania's pioneering agritourism ventures. Founded in 1999 within the Germenj-Shelegur natural reserve in the country's southeast, this farm-inn blends vineyard, livestock farming, rustic lodging and outdoor activities, roughly 15 km from Leskovik and 90 km from Korçë.

Why Stop Here

La Farma Sotira occupies rare terrain in Europe: open meadows, pine forests and mountain lakes, all within a protected zone of Germenj-Shelegur National Park. The appeal rests on three concrete strengths:

• Farm-to-table cuisine drawn from on-site production (meat, freshwater fish, cheese, wine, raki).
• A robust activity program, including private equestrian trails spanning roughly 16 km.
• Flexible lodging options, from bungalows to tree-sheltered camping.

The place suits both a brief stop for a meal and a multi-day rural immersion.

Farm History

La Farma Sotira was established in 1999 within the Germenj-Shelegur natural reserve at a time when agritourism scarcely existed in Albania. It ranks among the country's first operations to marry a family farming enterprise with structured tourism hospitality—vineyard, livestock, vegetable garden and lodging all on one site. This pioneering status explains the place's coherence, where activities offered to guests extend genuine agricultural work.

What to Do

Farm Cuisine and Produce

La Farma Sotira's table rests on largely home-produced ingredients. Meats (beef, lamb, pork, goat, poultry) are cooked over wood fire using traditional methods, and the farm continues age-old preservation by drying, inherited from pre-refrigeration times. The signature dish is trofta fish casserole with vegetables: trofta caught from surrounding lakes is cut into pieces, mixed with fresh vegetables in a pot and oven-roasted under a large dome filled with wood embers. The menu also features grilled fish, pies, homemade bread and cheese. Vegetarian diets and allergies are accommodated upon request.

The vineyard produces red wine, white wine and raki, the traditional Albanian spirit. Grape harvest occurs in September and visitors may participate.

Horseback Riding and Hiking

The farm maintains private equestrian trails totaling roughly 16 km, crossing the property and adjacent hills. Horses suit both beginners and experienced riders, children and adults alike. Walking is another straightforward way to explore the surroundings: the area is wild and local fauna includes wild boar, deer, and more rarely wolves and bears, whose sighting remains incidental.

Farm Life and Free Activities

Guests may lend a hand with farm work (vineyards, fields) according to season. The site lends itself to mountain biking, lake swimming and landscape photography.

Lodging and Practical Information

Accommodation comprises roughly fifteen bungalows and chalets, whose rental generally includes breakfast. A camping area sits nestled under trees, with access to potable water points, shared bathrooms and electrical outlets. A parking area welcomes motor homes. The site is secured and the farm remains open year-round, with staff available by day and evening. Rates vary by lodging type (bungalow, chalet, tent, motor home pitch) and remain generally modest by Albanian standards.

When to Visit

Seasonality strongly shapes the experience:

• Spring (April–June): flowering meadows, mild temperatures, ideal conditions for hiking and horseback riding.
• Summer (July–August): altitude around 1,200 m tempers summer heat; lake swimming possible.
• September: grape harvest season, open to visitor participation; warm light and moderate crowds.
• Winter: the farm remains open, snow-blanketed landscapes, though road access becomes trickier.

May through October see the bulk of outdoor activities.

Access

La Farma Sotira lies approximately 15 km from Leskovik and 90 km from Korçë. From Korçë, the route begins flat, then alternates climbs and descents on low-traffic roads. Once in the mountains, the pavement turns winding and pitted: a vehicle with decent ground clearance is recommended. The journey is more comfortable on a mountain bike than in a low-slung car. A stop in Ersekë, midway, breaks up the drive and offers a peek at a small mountain town.

Nearby Attractions

• Leskovik: neighboring village, supply point and gateway to the region.
• Germenj-Shelegur National Park: forested massif enclosing the farm, threaded with trails and waterways.
• Mount Gjerë: peak in southern Albania's mountain chain, accessible to hikers.
• Mount Kokojka: another hiking objective in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Weave La Farma Sotira Into Your Journey

This rural stop fits naturally into an itinerary across southeastern Albania, between Korçë, Germenj-Shelegur Park and Përmet Valley. To craft a bespoke trip, explore our Albania travel ideas.