According to local tradition, the village was founded by Orthodox families who withdrew into the mountains after the death of Skanderbeg. Dardha has a long history of emigration, and its people were among the founders of early Albanian communities in the United States and Romania. It was also home to the 18th-century painters Kostandin and Athanas Zografi, whose frescoes can be seen at Ardenica Monastery.
Dardha has been known for winter skiing since the 1920s, and today the small Bigëll ski area lies a few kilometres from the village. In summer the same slopes and forests are ideal for hiking, picnics and cool mountain air, while the village itself invites a slow stroll among its traditional houses, many of which now welcome guests.
Whether under snow or in full summer green, Dardha is a peaceful retreat and an easy trip from Korçë.
