The Vjosa flows past Tepelena on its way north to the Adriatic — one of the last truly wild rivers in Europe, undammed along its 270-kilometre course from the Pindus mountains in Greece to the Albanian coast. In 2023 it was declared the Vjosa Wild River National Park, the first such designation in Europe.
The wide braided channels, gravel banks, and clear water are at their best in spring and early summer. Rafting trips run from upstream points in the high mountains; from Tepelena itself, the riverside walks and pebble beaches make a calm, beautiful afternoon. The confluence with the Drino just north of town is a particularly fine spot.