The brutal road to Nikc through the Cemit Canyon is pure Albanian adventure

Nikç is a small town at an elevation of 660m (2,165ft) above sea level, located in the Malësi e Madhe District of Shkodër County in Albania. Be careful: this road is not for the sissies. One mistake can have consequences.

Nikç - Cemit Canyon

Where is Nikç in Albania?

The town is located in the northwestern part of the country, near the border with Montenegro.

Is the road to Nikç unpaved?

The road to the town is very difficult. It’s totally unpaved, narrow, muddy and littered with knee-deep potholes. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Along the way you’ll have to deal with dangerous drop offs and crossing defiant bridges.

How defiant is the road to Nikç?

The most demanding part of the drive is running through the scenic Cemit Canyon, a small canyon carved by the Cemit River. Not recommended to newbies.

How long is the road to Nikç in Albania?

Tucked away in the Cemit Valley, the road to the town is known as Nikç Road. Starting at the paved SH 20 Road, it’s 13.1 km (8.13 miles) long. The road is very steep, hitting a 15% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps.
Pic: Attila Gulyas