High Scardus Trail Hike and Mt. Korab Ascent

Welcome to the Balkans! You can catch the group transfer either at Tirana's city center at 14:00 or 40 minutes later at Tirana Airport. If you're arriving later or from a different location, feel free to inquire about a private transfer (e.g., from Prishtina Airport) so you can meet up with the group in Kukes in the afternoon, just in time for the tour briefing and dinner.

Please note that it's best to store your luggage in Tirana/Prishtina as the trip does not return to Kukes. Located in northeastern Albania, Kukes holds a unique place in history. In 1999, the city was nominated for the Nobel Prize for its role in welcoming and sheltering 450,000 Kosovar refugees.

The sight of the majestic Mt. Gjallica will set the stage for the adventures ahead. Let us know if you require further details regarding your arrival or if you'd like to arrange additional transfers.

A 45-minute transfer will lead us through the majestic Vanave Gorge and up a serpentine road into the highlands, known as the gora.

Our hike starts near the Gorani village of Shishtavec, where a gradual ascent guides us to the rocky summit of Mt. Kallabak, the inaugural peak of the Sharr Massif, which divides the three countries. Continuing on, we'll hike through seemingly boundless meadows along a panoramic ridgeline that intersects the border between Albania and Kosovo.

Descending into a deep, alpine valley, we'll arrive at the secluded village of Caje, potentially the highest year-round inhabited settlement in the country. Here, we'll visit the local "club," the heart of every Albanian village, for a chat with the elders and a sip of potent raki (local brandy) to cap off our first day on the High Scardus Trail.

As we say farewell to our gracious host family, we'll depart from the cozy homestay to embark on our second, more extensive hike towards the village of Radomire. A scene reminiscent of a fairytale awaits us as we traverse alpine meadows adorned with vibrant carpets of flowers. With a stroke of luck, we may encounter the rare Albanian lily or witness herds of semi-wild horses peacefully grazing in these idyllic surroundings.

Crossing a lofty ridgeline with gentle undulations, the imposing peaks of Korab dominate the skyline, drawing us closer to the heart of the Korab-Koritnik Nature Park. This protected area, part of the Balkan Green Belt, boasts remarkable biodiversity and unspoiled wilderness.

As we descend into the Field of Korabi, a hyperkarstic depression, we'll encounter the distinctive two-man bunkers protruding from the earth like concrete mushrooms, standing as silent sentinels.

Our destination, Radomire, is a vibrant village that welcomes visitors with aspirations of conquering Korab's heights. Once there, we'll extend our greetings to our new host and settle into the modest pension, our home for the next two nights. It's time to kick back, relax, and unwind on the cozy sheepskin pads, giving our weary feet some well-deserved rest.

With an early start, we eagerly set out to conquer the summit of Mt. Korab. Today's endeavor promises to be physically demanding, characterized by significant elevation gain, yet devoid of technical challenges. Our route winds through shepherd huts and diverse terrain, encompassing rocky stretches and lush meadows.

Upon reaching the saddle at the border, we'll go around the peak and approach it from the backside. Weather permitting, we'll pause for a well-deserved lunch at the summit before retracing our steps along the same path back to our accommodation.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, there's the option to only partially complete the return hike or forgo it entirely, opting instead to explore the village and enjoy a leisurely day. We'll spend another night in the same accommodations as the previous evening.

Leaving our base at Mt. Korab, we'll venture back into the highlands, ascending an ancient patrol route towards the border. Along the way, we'll encounter the "brezi i bute," a sandy stretch designed to detect footprints—a reminder of the region's somber history. Under communist rule in Albania, these serene surroundings were closely monitored, with trespassers facing severe consequences, including forced labor camps for themselves and their families.

From the pinnacle of today's trek, we'll be able to behold the vast expanse of a glacially sculpted valley, where thousands of sheep roam freely across the wide plain. En route, we'll also pass by a tranquil glacial lake, offering an opportunity to cool our feet in its refreshing waters.

Tonight, we're welcomed into the modest wooden huts of the Kaloshi clan at the so-called Ladies Pasture, nestled at an altitude of 1,770 meters. Here, amidst the absence of modern amenities like phone signal, electricity, or showers, we receive the warmth of genuine hospitality and gain unique insights into the daily lives and work of the shepherds—today, you might even try your hand at milking a sheep.

As night falls, we gather under the vast canopy of stars around a crackling bonfire, soaking in the serenity before drifting off to sleep.

Today we'll ascend along a mule path towards the Grama Pas, greeted by 360° views of the surrounding peaks. Casting our gaze backward, we'll marvel at the sight of Korab and Grama Lake, acknowledging the significant journey we've undertaken and drawing strength for the arduous descent ahead.

Zigzagging down the rugged terrain of the old border patrol route, a glance back from a distance scarcely seems to belie the monumental rocky precipice we've just descended.

As we approach through the mountain pastures of Rabdisht, we'll be treated to a bird's eye view of the village, characterized by scattered red-tiled roofs and wisps of smoke curling from chimneys—a reassuring sign of our return to civilization.

Descending into the cobblestone alleys, we finally arrive at our charming guesthouse, where we join our hosts for a toast of firewater or homemade juice in their picturesque garden.

Today's journey entails a leisurely hike around the charming villages of Dibra, serving as a gentle segue from the rugged simplicity of the alpine heights to the bustling pace of city life. We traverse hills and pastures, retracing our steps through the villages we glimpsed from above yesterday.

Hindered by a lack of road access, this once thriving region has regrettably fallen behind, with locals predominantly relying on their own agricultural produce for sustenance. Faced with limited opportunities, many of the younger generation have migrated elsewhere in search of prospects. Exploring the villages of Zagrad, Cerjan, and Bellove, we delve into the architectural charm of traditional stone houses and engage with the welcoming locals, undoubtedly receiving invitations for a cup of coffee.

In the early afternoon, we embark on a car journey to Tirana, the vibrant capital whose modernity stands in stark contrast to the rugged landscapes we've traversed. As we stroll along the bustling main boulevard, we gain insight into the city's origins and the diverse influences that have shaped its identity.

Gathering for our final dinner together, we reminisce about the memorable experiences of the past week, reflecting on the highlights of our journey along the Balkans' newest long-distance trail. It's time to bid farewell to one another, cherishing the bonds forged amidst our shared adventures.

If time permits, we will take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Tirana, experiencing the city's vibrant atmosphere. Pause to enjoy an espresso at one of the charming cafés, observe the bustling morning activity, and perhaps indulge in some delectable treats at the lively "New Bazaar."

For those intrigued by Albania's communist past, "Bunkart 2" and "The House of Leaves" offer fascinating insights and are conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Tirana's main "Skanderbeg Square."

As your journey in Albania draws to a close, a 40-minute transfer awaits to take you to the airport.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for joining us on this adventure and hope to welcome you back soon to a land renowned for its warm hospitality, breathtaking mountains, and sun-drenched beaches.

If you're not quite ready to depart, feel free to inquire about further mountain exploration, cultural highlights in Albania's historic cities, or a relaxed beach extension—there's always more to discover in the Balkans!