Koçiu noted that beyond its natural beauty, there are the local residents themselves who can transform Gjinar into an increasingly attractive destination for tourists through investments and the enrichment of the tourism offering.

“Gjinar has been blessed by nature, but there are its people who can transform it into an ever more appealing destination—with more businesses, more visitors and a richer tourism offering,” she stated.

According to her, the “Mountain Package” serves as an opportunity for any Albanian who views their ancestral land not merely as a heritage, but as a foundation for building new enterprises, creating jobs and fostering greater development and prosperity in the area.

“The 26 beneficiaries of the “Mountain Package” represent just the first step toward a new chapter for tourism and economic development in Gjinar,” Koçiu stated. /a.f/p.s./

In recent years, the area has seen a steady rise in tourism, both in visitor numbers and accommodation capacity, reflecting broader growth in Albania’s domestic travel sector.

However, tourism in Gjinar dates back to the pre-1990 period, when it operated under a markedly different model.

Photographs taken in August 1974 by Albanian Telegraphic Agency’s photographer Gani Xhengo document a series of holiday cabins built on Mount Bukanik, at an altitude of 1,823 metres. The cabins were intended for workers from the city of Elbasan.

At the time, tourism in Albania was centrally organised and controlled by the state. Travel within the country was regulated, and workers were required to obtain so-called “camp permits” from their workplaces in order to take holidays at designated locations within the country.

The images offer a glimpse into an earlier era of structured, state-managed tourism, contrasting with the more open and market-driven sector that has developed in recent decades.

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Gjinari is a serene mountain retreat offering snowy winter escapes and cool summer relaxation. One can immerse there in the scent of lush pine forests, fresh air, and timeless, tranquil nature.

Gjinari’s recent infrastructure improvements, part of the ‘100 Villages’ initiative, better welcome visitors while meticulously preserving its traditional charm.

Recent years have seen a surge in agro-tourism, with local agricultural enterprises providing, authentic hospitality and fresh, farm-sourced produce.

Among the most popular dishes are traditional lid-baked pie, savory oshmari made from cornmeal and cheese and the unique sweet-and-salty kabunia, a blend of sweet and savory rice and raisins dish.

The area offers great hiking beyond the local food cuisine, with a top option being Mount Bukanik. Standing at 1,831 meters, this accessible summit offers a rewarding, easy-to-moderate trail for all ages.

Also, Lake Gjinari is an idyllic spot for a quiet picnic and scenic relaxation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area via local bike trails, motorized tours, and emerging adventure activities.

On the way to Gjinar one can stop in Shelcan to have a taste of the 16th-century Church of Saint Nicholas. As a key example of post-Byzantine style, it holds significant artistic value, with murals and an iconostasis embodying the tradition of Onufri.

Recently, Gjinar delighted nature lovers with an unexpected March snowfall. /r.e/p.s./