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8 km south of Kukës on the road to Peshkopi, a sharp gorge following the Tershanes creek cuts dramatically through the lower south shoulder of Mt. Gjallica just above the Town of Bicaj. Behind the two-story white school building, a road lead ½ km to the hamlet of Mustafe. Very steep lines run up both sides of the sharp keyhole cut in the side of the mountain, while above longer and steeper lines run 150 m or more up the limestone ridge behind the keyhole entrance to the gorge and in the amphitheatre cut into the side of Gjallica behind.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
The canyon, known by the very interesting name, ‘The Bad Staris’ is a true wonder of nature and can be found near the village of Bicaj in Kukës, around a 30-minute car drive, or 3 hours hike. This canyon is a unique natural monument, with a 1,000-m depth and 3-m width. It can be seen with the naked eyes from the city centre and is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions that should definitely not be missed.
Fewer people may have heard about the underground city. This one was constructed under the foundations of the new city as a shelter from potential attacks during the communist period in Albania. Designed to be a full-fledged city, the underground Kukës was meant to include a hospital, government offices, army quarters and residential areas. The tunnels that run through this underground space have several entryways, located in different neighbourhoods scattered throughout the town. Constructed by the state during the Communist regime, the city is 30 m below ground level, accessed by spiralled staircases. Entry is possible only through organized tours, offered on arrangement by Afrim Cenaj.
Kukës has two bridges crossing the Drini River. A concrete one built during communism and a modern metal bridge finished in 2025. Along with the hotel and reservoirs, they offer imposing views.
Lusen and Fshat are connected by a 2-hr goat trail leading along the base of the main Fshat wall, and providing a convenient means of descent from the crags all along the 4-km walk up the Bustrice gorge to Fshat. The rock in this gorge is of mixed quality, with the most noteworthy feature being the large funnel, chimney and crack systems that make great incisions down the overhanging limestone faces.
Turizmi i Ri
Described as one of the most beautiful tourist facilities in the country, the former hotel "Turizmi i ri" has been completely destroyed. Abandoned and left to the mercy of fate for years, this building, day by day, is going to the last limit of its existence. This place was once frequented by the citizens of Kukës, who remember it and feel sorry for the destruction of this property. The former hotel was built in 1988, on a hill dominating the city and is surrounded on three sides by the waters of Lake Fierza. By citizens and tourists, the hotel was used for only 6 years to give way, then, to total destruction.
Memorial Refugees from Kosovo, Kulla e Kujtimit
This memorial commemorates the Kosovo Albanian refugees who came to Kukës during the Kosovo War of 1998-1999. The monument recalls the town’s role in sheltering refugees and the humanitarian importance of Kukës during that period. Its kulla-style design reflects Albanian traditions of hospitality and remembrance, making it one of the most meaningful modern historical sights in the city.