Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is in the Librazhd and Bulqizë regions of Albania. It is one of Albania's newest national parks, having been created in 2008. The park occupies the northeastern section of the district of Librazhd and runs along the border with North Macedonia.
The Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park is named after two mountains in the park: Shebenik and Jabllanice. It is a new park, and thus underdeveloped
The terrain of the park is mostly foothills leading up to mountains which reach over 2,200 meters high. It is covered in small pine and deciduous forests, as well as grazing meadows.
The part is home to a number of rare and endemic species of plants and wildlife. Beech, oak, fir, and other pine trees dominate the forested portions of the park. There are also a number of meadows and pastures. The brown bear, grey wolf, and Eurasian linx are all inhabitants of the area.
The climate is temperate with dry warm summers and cool wet winters, though the highest reaches of the park are often covered in snow until May.
There are no entrance fees.
- The highest point of the park - 'Maja e Shebenikut' (Peak of Shebenik Mountain) with its breathtaking views of the Librazhd region and into North Macedonia.
- Festivals - a number of the villages in and near the park have annual festivals in the beginning of the summer
The highest point of the park - 'Maja e Shebenikut' (Peak of Shebenik Mountain) with its breathtaking views of the Librazhd region and into North Macedonia.
Festivals - a number of the villages in and near the park have annual festivals in the beginning of the summer
- Go for a hike!
- Swim in a number of the small rivers or glacial ponds which cover the park.
Traditional Albanian food can sometimes be purchased from villagers. Make sure to try the dairy products, such as fresh cheese and buttermilk.
Wild blackberries, strawberries, plums, and figs can be found in the park.
There are a number of small bars in villages around the park. Ask to try the local raki (the variety made from dogwood tree, or Thanë as it's known in Albanian is quite good).
Remember there are bears, wolfs, and reportedly lynx living with the park. Though there have been no reports of recent incidents, practice caution around wild animals.
Fushe Studen - a small village close to the park. The village has a nice lake where you can camp also.
Tirana, Librazhd, Elbasan, Pogradec, Korca, Struga and Ohrid are all within a few hours of the main entrances to the park.