TIRANA, April 6  /ATA/ After spending several years in Greece, Esat Reçi chose to return to his hometown of Kurbin. Once employed in the construction sector, he has since become one of the entrepreneurs investing in agrotourism. By repurposing the house inherited from his grandparents into a guesthouse, he has developed a destination that is steadily attracting a growing number of visitors. 

Nestled among the green hills of Kurbin, the “Lahuta e Vjetër” agrotourism venture stands as a meticulously curated investment, refined in every detail — from the traditional architecture of the building to its authentic cuisine. Today, it has become an inviting destination for both domestic and international visitors, drawn by the promise of nature, tradition and the genuine flavours of Albania. 

Esat Reçi admits that the decision to return home and start this investment was far from easy. “What drove me,” he explains, “was the lifestyle and the potential my country holds. Here I have everything: nature, tradition and the chance to build something authentic.” 

Before setting the foot on the ladder, Esat Reçi spent several years studying successful agrotourism models, particularly in Italy’s Tuscany region, in order to build a concept that was both sustainable and authentic. 

The initial phase centred on vineyards planted with indigenous seedlings and the establishment of a cellar dedicated to the production of wine and raki — both of which are now certified products on the market. The initiative subsequently expanded to encompass guest accommodation and restaurant services, thereby creating a self‑sustaining cycle that integrates agricultural production with tourism. 

“Now in its third year of operation, ‘Lahuta e Vjetër’ offers an immersive experience of rural life. Guests savour traditional dishes such as flija prepared in a saç or homemade cheese, while also joining in daily activities — from harvesting produce in the greenhouses to tending livestock or exploring the surrounding countryside. The facilities have been carefully adapted to welcome families and groups seeking tranquillity away from the pace of urban life.” 

Yet challenges have been part of the journey. Securing adequate financing and improving infrastructure have stood among the principal hurdles. Esat Reçi notes that support through government funding schemes and concessional loans under the Sovereign Guarantee proved decisive in sustaining the investment, while promotion has required time and unwavering commitment. 

Today, in its third year, the agrotourism venture attracts visitors from across Europe, the wider region, the United States and Israel. Many have discovered the destination through social media, where positive impressions have played a significant role in driving the growth in visitor numbers. 

A glowing review from an English tourist, who described ‘Lahuta e Vjetër’ as offering ‘hospitality that left me speechless,’ sparked a new wave of visitors from the United Kingdom… 

Esat Reçi points out that “Lahuta e Vjetër” is the first agrotourism initiative in the Kurbin area. He recalls that building the structure required years of effort and perseverance. Having been among the early emigrants, he chose to return to Albania and invest in his homeland. “It is not difficult to work in Albania,” he says. “Emigration is no easier — here you are in your own country, you work here, you live here. If we do not contribute as tourists in Albania, then let us work as we do abroad. Return to Albania, because everything you need is here. 

The investment continues to expand with the establishment of a livestock complex for small ruminants, aimed at further strengthening the closed cycle of organic production and tourism services. In parallel, Esat Reçi has engaged local farmers, sourcing a wide range of local products — from honey, eggs and milk to preserves and other traditional goods — thereby building a cooperative network that supports the local economy. His story is far from unique. Across Albania, more and more families are turning to agrotourism as a genuine opportunity for economic and social development. Backed by government policies since 2018, the sector is generating employment, increasing incomes and contributing to the revival of rural life. 

For Esat Reçi, returning to the village is not merely an economic investment but a lifeline. He believes the true value lies in creating something authentic that serves not only his family but also the wider community. His story illustrates how reconnecting with one’s roots can become a secure step towards a more sustainable future. 

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