Nika Guesthouse

Staying at the family-owned Nika Guesthouse and Garden in the village of Nderlyse is the best way to experience the life of a highland farmer. This village of sweet orchards, situated at the junction of the Shala River, sits on the only plain of the valley that is rich in land and water and therefore suited to agriculture.

Nika Guesthouse and Garden represent the traditional farming complex, with a typical rock house and wooden barn and adjoining structures. Dede Nika and his family live here all year round, and follow the rhythm of nature and their crops. For the interested traveller, it is a great opportunity to understand the local economy and the agricultural market, through direct interaction with the locals and working in the fields with them.

Various development organizations, such as the German Organization for Technical Cooperation, have worked with the host families in the area to bring their guesthouses up to standard.  While travelers must keep in mind that these are very modest, simple, and rustic family home environments, they will be pleased to find that the accommodations do provide a comfortable stay. 

It is most considerate to book in advance so that each family has time to prepare the food and guestrooms with your comfort in mind.

The family offers guests a comfortable stay in their home, and days full of simple and rewarding farming activities. Bed sheets and towels are provided for. All meals are included in the price. The only items required on this trip are work clothes, gardening gloves, shampoo and shower gel, mosquito repellent, a small first-aid kit, a warm sweater and a warm pair of socks. A pair of slippers should also be carried as it is the custom in Albania to leave one's shoes at the door, and walk around the house in slippers.

Nika guesthouse is a simple peasant's home, so guests are welcomed to bring a few tea mugs or any other kitchenware.

As tourism is still very new in Albania, the village guesthouses do not have a check-in or check-out time. However, if there is a new group coming, guests will be requested to check-out before the arrival of the new guest (which is usually after noon).

Luggage can be left at the reception for a few extra hours. Guests should refer to the online dictionary while asking about storage of their luggage.

-  for cancellations made 48 h before the arrival date, there will not be any cancellation charge
-  for cancellations made less than 48 h before the arrival date, there will be a charge equivalent to the first night's stay.

Guests are advised to bring along a warm sweater or windcheater as protection against the cold mountain air, and also a pair of warm socks, as it is the custom in Albania to take off one's shoes while entering the house.