A restoration project in northern Albania is converting traditional kulla stone tower houses into guesthouses along a new long-distance trail. The Albanian Agritourism Association developed the initiative to revive these structures, which historically protected families during conflict and hosted travellers on trade routes before falling into disrepair during the 20th century.
Visitors staying in the restored kullas experience authentic features: sunlight through small stone windows, wooden floorboards, sounds of sheep bells from passing flocks, and smoke from evening fires. The trail reaches into a region of Albania with minimal tourism development. The stone houses once stood across northern Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, and the project aims to restore them to their former function while offering guests a connection to the country's heritage.