Mali i Shëndëllisë

Mali i Shëndëllisë is along the major highway connecting Fier and Gjirokaster. It is in everybody's view, but we had never heard of anyone climbing it. Shëndëllisë had been on our mind for a while, and we were just waiting for a good opportunity. In mid February 2014, snow conditions were getting good, and we rushed down to Tepelene to hope for a few hours of sunshine.

Sandwiched between endless rain and clouds, we got a glorious day. Mali i Shëndëllisë, topping 1800 Meter, is not the highest among the many summits of southern Albania. But it affords great views, particularly towards Kendervices (Wikiloc # 2925804) - one of the big southern mountains whose summit cannot be seen from any major town. Kendervices is not frequently visited by tourists, but perhaps we can start a movement here.

More views can be had to Papingut (Nemercke - Wikiloc #2797656), Cajupi (Wikiloc # 4499440) and Strakovecit (Wikiloc # 3428027). From Mali i Shëndëllisë, Strakovecit shows its most dramatic face, especially in winter conditions.

Up to the ridge, the trail follows good paths, though care should be taken not to miss a turn. Paths become indistinct near the ridge. Because of the snow cover, we could not make out any path to the summit. Note that it is a 2.5 kilometer hike from the point where you reach the ridge to the summit. There are several false summits which must be crossed or bypassed.

About 10 meter below the actual summit, a cornice blocked our way. We descended about 25 meter to the left to reach easier terrain to the summit. In summer, it might be possible to proceed straight to the summit along the ridge.

The first 2 kilometer from the trailhead are on a narrow road. Intrepid drivers may give it a try, though the road is more suitable for small tractors.

See separate wikiloc trail (# 6196671) for the drive to the trailhead