Mike in the distance at the end of the river. Shows the scale of the gorge
The thermal pools at Benjë are the largest in Albania. There are several (6) natural sulphur springs that seep up from deep tectonic fissures in the ground. None are really hot , and the pool we tried out felt very chilly given how hot we were. However, once we eased ourselves in it was very refreshing.
The pools have been artificially created, banked up stone next to the cliffs for the most part and then lined. Apparently each pool is said to have different curative effects depending on the minerals from the particular spring that feeds the pool.
Whether they do have curative properties or not, even though it was late in the day and out of holiday season the valley was busy and everyone seemed relaxed and happy. even the dog which was enjoying himself in one of the pools.
Most of our group stayed by the main pool just by the Kadiut Bridge at the start of the Lengarica Canyon. The Kadiut bridge was built by the Ottomans in the 18th century to connect the rural loggers with the agricultural towns in the Vjosa Valley. Now it is really just a great photo opp.
We decided to cross under the bridge and head upstream towards the Langarica Canyon. Found a really quiet pool which was nice to relax in once we had got used to the temperature. The gorge in evening light was beautiful. It would have been nice to have had a spare day and to hike up the Canyon itself. Apparently in places the walls of the canyon are up to 100m high and only 20 to 30 m wide. I imagine a bit like hiking through Zion Canyon which we did many years ago.
Kristi was watching over our bikes which was very kind of him. We had a relaxing ride downhill back to our hotel. Fully earnt our dinner tonight.
See below for a video of time at the thermal springs. Note to see the full controls click on the < control on the progress bar. This will allow you to watch the video full screen
