Trekking Tour in the Balkans - Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro

Welcome to the Balkans! You have the option to join the group transfer in Tirana, either at the city center (14:00) or later at the TIA airport, no later than 15:00. Upon arrival in the afternoon, you'll reach Shkodra (84km/2.5hr) and check into the centrally located hotel.

If time allows, we can stop by the Rozafa castle at the entrance of Shkodra to enjoy its fabulous views, offering a glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes you'll encounter in the Albanian Alps during the upcoming days.

Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through the pedestrian area, adorned with bourgeois townhouses that serve as a reminder of the city's prestigious past. Experience the city’s Italian flair and explore the bustling bazaar, where you can purchase dried fruits and other snacks.

After a delicious dinner, take the opportunity to discuss the exciting adventures planned for the following days. Perhaps conclude the evening with a celebratory toast at one of the nearby bars. However, remember not to stay up too late, as tomorrow’s transfer begins before sunrise!

If you arrive early, feel free to inquire about extension nights in Tirana & Shkodra, as well as recommendations for places to visit or activities to enjoy in both cities.

Starting early, we'll drive through the Drin Gorges and to the Komani Lake (58 km/2h). This reservoir, resembling a Norwegian fjord, winds its way through sheer rock walls, offering one of the most captivating routes into the Albanian Alps. Board the ferry, which makes several stops to pick up chatty locals from remote villages before arriving at Fierze.

Continuing by car, venture deeper into the highlands of the Valbona National Park, pausing for a light lunch in the small city of Bajram Curri. By early afternoon, you'll arrive in the village of Valbona, characterized by its stone tower-houses.

A gentle warm-up walk follows a crystal-clear stream through ancient beech forests, adorned with the sweetest strawberries. Along the way, take the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim in the ice-cold river or a secluded pond.

The walk concludes at a cozy guesthouse in upper Valbona, with the jagged peaks towering above, igniting anticipation for the adventures to come tomorrow. Tonight, indulge in a home-cooked meal and rest after this exhilarating introduction to the Accursed Mountains.

After being refreshed, fed, and equipped with a packed lunch, you'll set out on the first and one of the longest ascents of the trek.

As you wind your way up the mountainside, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of the highest peaks of the Albanian Alps. Passing through pastures, you eventually reach a treeless alpine valley, where the solitary mountains, surrounded by rock, stand before you.

Today's journey reaches its pinnacle at the Persllopi Pass (2,039 m), marking the highest point of the day and the border with Montenegro, near the country's tallest peak, Mt. Kollata (2,534 m). Along the way, you'll cross through a wind cave and navigate a karst labyrinth.

Upon returning to Albania, you'll be treated to some of the most mesmerizing viewsa and may even meet local shepherds on your way to the relatively isolated village of Cerem. Despite its lack of modern amenities such as mobile phone signal or electricity, Cerem offers warm hospitality, hot home-cooked meals, and a refreshing shower—a welcome respite after a day of trekking.

In case weather conditions make crossing the pass unfeasible, an alternate route through the Mt. Kollata Canyon leads to a simpler guesthouse (without electricity).

The hike toward the elevated border triangle will lead you across carpets of wildflowers, briefly venturing into what was once Yugoslav territory. Along the trail, you can indulge in forest fruits, marvel at the diverse plant life, and soak in the vistas of Mt. Kolata.

Once you reach the edge of the deep river canyon and follow the elevated path through a forest, you'll notice the stark contrast in terrain between the Western and Eastern Alps. Alpine pastures dot the slopes, offering a serene spot to rest and connect with local herdsmen over coffee and raki.

In the glacially sculpted valley of Doberdol, wildlife roams freely across the grazing lands, creating a timeless atmosphere. Here, locals continue to live in harmony with nature, reminiscent of a bygone era.

Embrace the rustic charm of the shepherd's huts, as you trade comfort for a night of warm hospitality. As the hosting family prepares meals, you'll be able to experience the seasonal lifestyle of the shepherds by the bonfire.

Bidding farewell to your gracious hosts, you'll climb out of the valley toward Mt. Tromedja/Trekufiri, watching as the huts and herds of Doberdol below gradually shrink with each step.

At the summit, you're greeted by expansive views where the borders of three countries merge. To the left, the lush greenery of Babino Polje in Montenegro stretches out, while to the right, Kosovo's highest peak, Mt. Gjeravica, plunges dramatically from the heights of the Dinaric Alps into the Dukagjin Plain.

Following the long caravan path along the edge of the "Bjeshket e Namuna" National Park, you'll hike the border ridge beneath the towering peaks of Mt. Marijash and Mt. Rops, which rise over 2,500 m.

Crossing the Roshkodoli Pass, you'll begin your descent to Milishevc, a secluded summer village nestled amid serene pine forests. Here, simple wooden mountain huts, characteristic of the country's alpine villages, offer refreshments, hearty meals, comfort, and a well-deserved rest after a challenging day of trekking.

The Lumbardhi Ridge stands as the final barrier between Milishevc and the Rugova Gorge. Though the route to the crest may be faintly discernible, the ascent is rewarded with splendid vistas of the surrounding mountains.

Beyond the ridge lie vast grazing grounds, encircling the artesian pond at the base of Mt. Red Rock. While many pastoral areas were abandoned following the Kosovo war or are now reserved solely for recreational use, the Lumbardhi Alps remain one of the few exceptions where livestock is still tended to on a larger scale.

A steep trail leads through a ravine and ancient forests to the canyon floor. Here, you can pause for refreshments and, weather permitting, a refreshing swim.

As the day draws to a close, a short transfer along a rugged road brings you to the welcoming hosts in Reka e Allages. Relax with a cold beer as the sun sets, soaking in the magnificent views of Guri i Kuq, while dinner is being prepared.

Through meadows and along the serene blueberry trail, you'll ascend through a dense pine forest to the foothills of Mt. Hajla. Numerous steep and occasionally trail-less paths lead to the summit, which marks the border with Montenegro.

The decision to attempt the ascent is optional, and your guide will assist in assessing whether it's suitable for you to join. Alternatively, you may choose to keep the day short (under 5 hours) and spend your time daydreaming, reading, or admiring the surrounding flora. The chances of encountering rare plants such as Edelweiss or the endemic Albanian Lily are particularly high here!

Continuing from the base, the journey proceeds along a disused high-altitude road to Pepaj, the highest of the thirteen Rugova villages. Passing through a rocky gully framed by towering pines, you'll have several opportunities to glimpse the picturesque hamlet of Drelaj.

Compared to your previous overnight stays, Pepaj appears more populous and closer to civilization. Upon reaching your accommodation, another delectable dinner awaits, prepared by the welcoming family as they kindle a campfire in the garden.

After a 30-minute transfer to the trailhead, the path winds its way through a dense pine forest, leading you to the emerald waters of Liqenat Lake. Along its shores, a diverse array of alpine flora thrives, while above awaits the pinnacle of the official Peaks of the Balkans route, the Jelenka Pass.

Continuing past a second lake, you'll continue your ascent towards the pass, a historic route once traversed by caravans transporting silver and other goods to and from the coast—now obscured by time. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to rest and marvel at the vistas of the mountains above Plav, Theth, and Valbona. Behind you, shepherds from Roshkodol gather berries amidst peaks towering over 2,500 m.

The journey to Ravno Brdo Pass is characterized by gentle, therapeutic walking and stunning views. The final pass serves as a magnificent vantage point, offering sweeping vistas of the rugged peaks ahead and the verdant valley of Babino Polje below.

Descending through grassy terrain, you'll pass by a couple of huts before arriving at the scattered settlement of Babino Polje. Here, you'll lodge at the edge of the wilderness in simple yet welcoming mountain huts, where friendly hosts will introduce you to the delights of traditional Montenegrin home-cooking.

The Grbaja Valley stands as one of the most impressive landscapes in the Balkans. Journey into this narrow valley amidst the imposing karst towers of Karanfili. Renowned as one of the most rugged and spectacular peaks in the Prokletije range, it remains a coveted dream for many climbers.

Ascend through a shaded, enchanted beech forest and emerge into an alpine meadow. From this vantage point, the formidable cliffs seem almost touchable, while the views extend across the border into Albania's Kelmend region.

Following the spine of the ridge, a steep descent leads you back into the sheltered embrace of the forested path, marking the conclusion of this exhilarating hike.

Upon returning to the valley floor, you can unwind at one of the beer gardens, savoring a refreshing drink amidst the serene surroundings. Continuing on a transfer, you journey to the family-run guesthouse in Vusanje.

Here, the nearby Grla Waterfall beckons for an evening stroll, though the vistas from the veranda, overlooking the Accursed Mountains, are equally captivating

Journeying up the Ropojana Valley, we'll pause at a karst spring, where a frigid river originates from melting snow high in the mountains. A weathered border stone stands as a solitary relic of the once tightly sealed borders of former Communist Albania.

Through this mountain-framed corridor, we'll pass by a desiccated lake, shepherd huts, and an abandoned military outpost, delving into the heart of the Albanian Alps. Here, the jagged pinnacle of Mt. Arapi looms above the Thethi National Park, forming the tallest wall in the Balkans.

Upon reaching Peja Pass, your guide will evaluate the feasibility of ascending the summit. Those opting out of the challenging peak, suitable only for experienced and sure-footed hikers, can rest at the pass or begin the descent with the horsemen. A steep, well-trodden caravan trail leads to a local watering spot, followed by a brief ride to a guesthouse in the bustling village center.

In Theth, you'll have the opportunity to explore the iconic church and lock-in tower, which provided refuge for individuals threatened by blood feuds. It serves as an ideal starting point to delve into the history of the "kanun" and discuss the former highland legal code. Additionally, it marks the trailhead to Nderlysaj.

Following water channels, ascend to the renowned Grunas waterfall, then descend along a well-trodden bridle path alongside the riverbed to the tranquil hamlet of Nderlysa for lunch. From there, you can opt to extend your hike to the vibrant karst spring known as the "Blue Eye," or alternatively, spend a leisurely afternoon swimming amidst glacier-shaped rock formations.

In the late afternoon, we'll traverse the scenic Thore Pass back to Shkodra. Arrive at Shkoder after 5 pm and prepare for an overnight stay. Feel free to contact us to arrange private transfers to Tirana, airports, or other destinations, as well as hotel accommodations before or after the trip, where luggage storage facilities are available.

After enjoying breakfast, you'll have the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll through the pedestrian area and indulge in any last-minute souvenir shopping.

Those interested can join the group transfer to Tirana (airport or city). For travelers wishing to extend their adventures, there are various options to explore. You can explore the town further, visit the nearby beaches in Velipoja and Ulcinj (Montenegro), discover Albania's modern side in the capital city of Tirana, or opt for a beach holiday along the Albanian Riviera (with travel time ranging from 5 to 7 hours).

We sincerely thank you for joining us on this adventure, and we hope you had a fantastic time. We also hope it won't be your last visit to this country of warm hospitality, countless mountains, and sun-kissed beaches.

If you'd like to prolong your stay, don't hesitate to inquire about discounts (up to 10%) on combined trips, transfers, and extension nights in Tirana, Shkodra, or elsewhere—there's plenty to explore in each town, with enough to fill a full day's itinerary.