Upper Sulova – A traditional Albanian Villages
Upper Sulova (Sulova e Sipërme) is a remote village in the Gramsh region of central Albania, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. It lies near Mount Tomorr and is surrounded by unspoiled landscapes, including panoramic valleys, ancient ruins, and dense forests.
Local Life: The village maintains a strong agricultural tradition. Locals produce cheese, butter, molasses (pekmez), fruit compote, and homemade raki. Farming and livestock remain central to the economy and daily life.
The village is known for its close proximity to Irmaj Castle, a little-explored hilltop fortress believed to date back to Illyrian times. The area is ideal for moderate hiking, with trails that pass through traditional rural settings and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
A way of life
Upper Sulova preserves a way of life rooted in Albanian traditions. Local families still engage in age-old practices like cheese-making, fruit preservation (such as compote and molasses), and the distillation of homemade raki. Guests are often welcomed with homemade food made from fresh, local ingredients — including artisanal cheese, fresh butter, and traditional dishes slow-cooked in clay pots.
Local Life
Nearby, visitors can explore natural springs, the Black Forest — a pine-filled woodland rich in local legend — and Kalaja e Qelës, another historic fortress offering sweeping views of the region.
Upper Sulova offers an authentic experience of Albanian mountain village life, marked by hospitality, heritage, and a deep connection to nature.
Sulova, located in the Gramsh municipality of central Albania, is a small rural area known for its natural beauty, traditional lifestyle, and historical significance. It is divided into two parts: Upper Sulova (Sulova e Sipërme) and Lower Sulova (Sulova e Poshtme).
Geography & Nature: Surrounded by hills, rivers, and forests, Sulova lies close to the slopes of Mount Tomorr. The area offers a peaceful, untouched natural landscape ideal for hiking, exploration, and eco-tourism.
The village maintains a strong agricultural tradition. Locals produce cheese, butter, molasses (pekmez), fruit compote, and homemade raki. Farming and livestock remain central to the economy and daily life.
Culture & Hospitality: Visitors often praise the warm welcome from the local people, who are eager to share their traditions, food, and stories. The village represents a living example of authentic Albanian rural culture.
Sulova is reachable via Gramsh, followed by local roads. Some routes may require 4×4 vehicles due to the mountainous terrain.
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