Trying to hike the Peaks of the Balkans path in Europe?
You then’re in the appropriate place!
I’ve simply returned from a 10-day trek alongside this gorgeous Western Balkans mountaineering route, which takes you thru the gorgeous Accursed Mountains and crosses the border between Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro quite a few instances.
The Peaks of the Balkans was created to advertise peace and friendship between these three nations. Through the hike, you’ll immerse your self in native tradition and go to distant villages which might be exhausting to succeed in by automobile, like Doberdol (Albania), Deçan (Kosovo), and Vusanje (Montenegro).
However, how do you intend a visit to trek the Peaks of the Balkans path?
Preserve studying for the total breakdown, together with planning suggestions, lodging ideas, a packing listing, a day-by-day itinerary, and extra!
Fast Info: Size: 192 km (119 mi), normally 10 daysDifficulty: Reasonable to strenuousPermit: Required — apply at the very least 2 weeks aheadBest time: June–SeptemberSafety: Set up an eSIM in your cellphone & take into account a International Rescue membershipRecommended information: Wilderness Balkans
What Is The Peaks Of The Balkans Path?
The Peaks of the Balkans path is a 192-kilometer round trekking route by way of the distant mountain areas of northern Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro.
Developed within the early 2010s to advertise sustainable tourism and cross-border cooperation after years of regional battle, the path hyperlinks conventional shepherd villages and dramatic highland landscapes.
It crosses the Accursed Mountains (also called the Albanian Alps), showcasing rugged peaks, glacial valleys, and native tradition.
For my part, what makes it particular is the possibility to expertise native life in a few of Europe’s most remoted areas whereas mountaineering by way of surroundings that feels actually untouched. It’s one of many world’s most lovely hikes, providing an expertise you’ll always remember!
Beautiful views whereas mountaineering the Peaks of the Balkans path. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Peaks Of The Balkans Path Map & Overview
As a result of it’s round, you can begin from wherever you’d like. My Balkans itinerary at a look was:
Pre-Trek:
Tirana, Albania
Shkodër, Albania
Trek:
Valbona, Albania
Çerem, Albania
Doberdol, Albania
Deçan, Kosovo
Babino Polje, Montenegro
Vusanje, Montenegro
Theth, Albania
Put up-Trek:
Shkodër, Albania
Tirana, Albania
Click on right here for a digital Peaks of the Balkans path map and click on right here to buy a bodily path map.
Seize entry to my free Journey Planning Toolkit for a Google Map with the stops on this information pre-plotted.
Peaks of the Balkans path map. You’ll see these quite a few instances alongside the route. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Peaks Of The Balkans Logistics
Place to begin & learn how to get there
Many trekkers start in Shkodër, a metropolis in northwestern Albania. It’s about 90 minutes from Tirana Worldwide Airport (TIA) in Albania, which is the place you’ll seemingly fly into.
From Shkodër, you’ll must get to the trailhead. As a result of I went with a information, they organized this; nonetheless, if going by yourself, you’ll:
1) Catch a bus at 6:45am from Shkodër to Koman (8€/individual), the place you’ll board the Koman–Fierze ferry at 9am (9€/individual). The bus ought to get you there at round 8:30am. You should purchase each bus and ferry tickets right here.
You can even take a personal taxi, however count on to pay nearer to 75€.
2) Journey by way of ferry to Fierze. The experience takes rather less than 3 hours and is extraordinarily scenic.
3) In Fierze, seize one of many taxis or minibusses ready on the ferry touchdown to Valbona Valley Nationwide Park, the place the trailhead is. The experience is about 45–60 minutes. You can even ask your guesthouse in Shkodër that can assist you pre-arrange a driver for this leg.
Views from the Lake Koman ferry. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Path size
The total Peaks of the Balkans path is 192 kilometers (119 miles), usually performed inside 10 days, however you are able to do much less by eradicating some stops or reserving transfers for sections which might be alongside a automobile street. As an illustration, this tour gives a 5-day trek.
The itinerary outlined under contains about 106 kilometers (66 miles) of mountaineering.
Path issue
Reasonable to strenuous. There are definitely very difficult sections, however total, for those who’re a daily hiker, you’ll haven’t any downside with this path, particularly as there are alternatives to switch the route if wanted.
Mountain climbing security
Whereas the path is well-marked, if going by yourself, be sure to have an eSIM put in and a paper path map so that you don’t get misplaced.
Additionally, whether or not you’re going with a information or by yourself, I like to recommend getting a International Rescue membership so to get a rescue or evacuation for those who get injured. Since many areas alongside the path don’t have cell service, you’ll additionally wish to get a satellite tv for pc communicator, just like the Garmin InReach Mini 2.
Horses and views in Theth, Albania. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Path allow
You will want a allow to hike the Peaks of the Balkans path. Should you’re going with an organization, they may seemingly safe this for you. Should you’re mountaineering by yourself, you’ll must contact the native authorities at the very least two weeks upfront:
Albanian Police: ferdinant.gjeta@asp.gov.al
Kosovo Police: pashuk.pepaj@kosovopolice.com
Ensure that to hold a printed copy of your allow with you whereas mountaineering.
Greatest time to trek
The most effective time to do the Peaks of the Balkans trek is June by way of September, when the climate is heat and the paths are lined with wildflowers.
Throughout winter, elements of the paths are closed, and among the settlements shut for the season so it may be far more difficult, and probably not potential in any respect in some areas, to search out lodging.
Personally, I did the trek in late June and cherished it!
Wildflowers alongside the path whereas mountaineering in summer time. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Ingesting water
Within the cities of Tirana and Shkodër, I caught to bottled water; nonetheless, in the course of the hike, it was potential to drink from the faucet.
Many hikers additionally drank from the mountain streams, however I wouldn’t do that with out utilizing a filter just like the LifeStraw Go bottle or LifeStraw Water Filter Straw.
Trek prices to price range for
Alongside the path:
Lodging prices about 45€ per individual per night time (primarily based on double occupancy).
Meals is included in your lodging worth (family-style breakfast and dinner in addition to a picnic lunch).
Drinks like soda, beer, and wine value about 2-2.50€ (other than Doberdol, the place they charged nearer to five€ for a glass of wine).
Should you go together with a tour operator like Wilderness Balkans, you’ll pay upfront for them to type out all logistics, so that you received’t want to hold a lot money. The one factor I spent cash on in the course of the trek was drinks and suggestions. There are additionally family-run cafes alongside the path the place you may cease for refreshments.
Path highlights
Taking in gorgeous views of colourful wildflowers and the Accursed Mountains (aka the Albanian Alps whenever you’re in Albania)
Staying in distant village guesthouses and attending to see native life up shut
Summiting a number of peaks, together with the Three Borders Peak the place all three nation borders meet
View from the Three Borders Peak. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Notable peaks alongside the way in which
Maja Jezercë (2,694 m). The best peak within the Albanian Alps, seen from Theth and Valbona, although normally not summited on the basic circuit.
Zla Kolata (2,534 m). The best peak in Montenegro, typically included as an non-compulsory summit between Valbona and Çerem.
Gjeravica (2,656 m). The best peak in Kosovo, regularly climbed on the day from Doberdol, after crossing from Albania into Kosovo.
Maja e Arapit (2,217 m). Typically known as the Matterhorn of Albania due to its dramatic sheer cliffs and pyramidal form.
Three Border Peak (2,354 m). It is a fashionable summit alongside the Peaks of the Balkans path because it’s the place Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro meet.
Mount Talijanka (2,057 m) and Mount Popadija (2,056 m). Positioned within the Grbaja Valley, these adjoining peaks supply unbelievable views of dolomite massifs.
Maja e Popluks (2,569 m). An imposing peak that rises above Theth.
Hardest day
Valbona to Çerem, particularly for those who additionally select to summit Zla Kolata—the best peak in Montenegro at 2,535 meters (8,317 ft)! Even with out summiting, this would be the hardest day of the hike.
Together with lovely views, you’ll meet locals whereas mountaineering the Peaks of the Balkans. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Guided vs Self-Guided Trekking
You’ll be able to hike the Peaks of the Balkans by yourself or with a information. Personally, I went with Wilderness Balkans and was very proud of my choice. This allowed me to easily present up and benefit from the hike whereas they dealt with logistics.
The overall value was 1,250€ for a small group tour with a most of 12 folks, although we solely had six. This included all lodging, meals, entrance charges, permits, transfers, and baggage transfers—mainly the whole lot apart from drinks, souvenirs, and suggestions.
That being mentioned, I noticed many solo hikers or teams of buddies doing this trek absolutely self-guided and having fun with the expertise, particularly for the reason that hike could be very social and also you’ll encounter many different trekkers alongside the way in which.
Simply know that doing it by yourself would require plenty of additional planning and reserving.
Alongside the trek, there are numerous family-run espresso homes to cease for a drink. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
The place To Keep Throughout The Peaks Of The Balkans Trek
The guesthouses alongside the Peaks of the Balkans path have been very comfy. Solely two lodging had shared loos, and a kind of was solely with a handful of individuals. Here’s a fast take a look at the locations I stayed:
Neo Kulla Hikers Hive (Valbona, Albania)
Vita Guesthouse (Çerem, Albania)
Leonardi Guesthouse (Doberdol, Albania)
Gacaferi Guesthouse (Deçan, Kosovo)
“HRID” Eco Mountaineering Village (Babino Polje, Montenegro)
Moonlight Home (Vusanje, Montenegro)
Bujtina Polia (Theth, Albania)
I additionally spent a couple of nights within the cities of Tirana and Shkodër earlier than and after the trek. My accommodations for these included:
Enzo Rooms & House (Tirana, Albania)
Resort Tradita (Shkodër, Albania)
Resort Ikona (Shkodër, Albania)
Having fun with the view from Bujtina Polia in Theth. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
10-Day Peaks Of The Balkans Itinerary (In-Depth)
Now that we’ve gone over the vital logistics of this Balkans trek, let’s go over an in-depth itinerary so you may actually see what the hike is like.
This itinerary features a barely shorter model of the trek, with rather less time in Kosovo. You’ll spend eight days trekking and two days sightseeing, with an non-compulsory bonus day for extra journey actions in Theth.
Tirana, Albania (Pre-Trek)
Period: 2 nightsHotel: Enzo Resort & Flats gives a clear, budget-friendly keep within the stylish Blloku District, with in-room WiFi, air con, blackout curtains, and a rain bathe. For espresso or fast bites, loads of nice cafés are inside a 10-minute stroll.Excursions: Click on right here for a listing of top-rated Tirana excursions
Tirana, Albania’s capital and largest metropolis, is probably going the place you’ll land. It’s value spending a day or two right here to acclimate and discover.
Base your self within the Blloku District, as soon as reserved for Communist elites however now full of stylish eating places, bars, boutiques, and cafes.
Prime sights embody the Pyramid of Tirana, a communist-era construction turned viewpoint, and museums like Bunk’Artwork 2 and the Nationwide Historical past Museum.
View from the Pyramid of Tirana. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
If you wish to stretch your legs earlier than the trek, take into account a day journey to Bovilla Lake and Gamti Mountain for unbelievable lake views.
For a tasty, budget-friendly carb load earlier than hitting the path, Recent Backyard Cafe serves nice pasta and pizza in a comfortable ambiance.
Shkodër, Albania (Pre-Trek)
Period: 1 nightHotel: Resort Tradita sits in a superbly preserved 400-year-old home full of Albanian folks artwork and conventional decor. The central courtyard is a pleasant place to calm down or benefit from the lodge’s plentiful family-style dinners that includes native dishes (the native trout is particularly scrumptious!).Excursions: Click on right here for a listing of top-rated Shkodër excursions
Shkodër is considered one of Albania’s oldest cities, recognized for its relaxed vibe and scenic setting alongside Lake Shkodër, framed by rivers and mountains.
Because the gateway to the Albanian Alps, it makes a perfect cease earlier than beginning your trek.
A spotlight is Rozafa Fort, perched on a rocky hill above the confluence of the Buna, Drin, and Kir rivers.
View from Rozafa Fort. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Initially an Illyrian fortress later rebuilt by the Venetians, it has withstood centuries of battles and gives sweeping views of the encompassing panorama.
After exploring, take pleasure in a meal on Rruga Kolë Idromeno, a pedestrian road lined with bars, retailers, and eating places. I like to recommend Nation Membership Bar & Grill, which—regardless of its identify—serves wonderful Italian dishes in a cute out of doors setting.
Valbona Valley, Albania
Period: 1 nightHiking Distance: 7 kilometersAscent: 250 metersDescent: 50 metersHighlights: Views over Koman Lake, mountaineering alongside a crystal river, and visiting a waterfall.Resort: Neo Kulla Hikers Hive has clear, comfy rooms with spectacular views of the Accursed Mountains from balconies and the patio. Anticipate a scrumptious feast for dinner, heat hospitality, and an opportunity to pattern native Albanian wine or natural teas made with wild marjoram.
At the moment, the trek formally begins, however you’ll want to succeed in the place to begin first. The drive from Shkodër to the Valbona Valley gives gorgeous mountain and river views your entire method.
To shorten the journey, you’ll board the Koman–Fierze ferry for a spectacular cruise by way of the emerald waters of Koman Lake surrounded by towering cliffs and slim gorges.
As soon as off the boat, we drive about 25 minutes to Restaurant Fisniku in Bajram Curri—the final main city earlier than coming into Valbona Valley Nationwide Park.
From there, it’s about 25 extra minutes by automobile to succeed in the beginning of the Peaks of the Balkans trek within the Valbona Valley, which feels distant and untouched. Towering peaks rise on all sides, framing a valley of wildflowers, stone homes, and icy blue rivers.
Discovering a waterfall whereas mountaineering within the Valbona Valley. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Strolling by way of the forest, we go wild juniper, rosemary, chamomile, and tiny alpine strawberries—vegetation locals have lengthy used for meals, drugs, and even constructing supplies.
For a lot of the path, the route follows the crystal-clear Valbona River. At one level, there’s even a waterfall and a swimming gap. I couldn’t resist dipping my toes in, however it was icy chilly!
As the trail winds by way of shady forest and rocky sections, preserve your eyes peeled for a moss-covered Chilly Battle bunker slowly being reclaimed by the forest. You’ll see a couple of of those alongside the Peaks of the Balkans path.
Ultimately, a clearing reveals jaw-dropping views of the jagged Accursed Mountains. These proceed your entire technique to Neo Kulla Hikers Hive, the place the views proceed from the property.
View from my balcony at Neo Kulla Hikers Hive. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Çerem, Albania
Period: 1 nightHiking Distance: 16 kilometersAscent: 1100 metersDescent: 1000 metersHighlights: Views of snow-topped peaks, the possibility to summit Zla Kolata, and stopping for drinks at an area residence alongside the hike.Resort: Vita Guesthouse is a straightforward, clear, family-run place with personal rooms with shared loos in the principle home and comfortable A-frame cabins exterior. Beautiful mountain views and plentiful, high-quality selfmade meals make for a welcoming keep the place you actually really feel cared for.
At the moment is the toughest day of the trek, masking 16 kilometers by way of the Prejsllopi Go to Çerem, a distant village surrounded by alpine meadows, stone homes, and conventional shepherd huts.
The problem isn’t the gap a lot because the tough terrain, with steep ascents and descents. The rocky climb begins immediately, pushing our legs from the primary steps.
Up and up we go, over thick-cut rock and big boulders. At instances, the path leads by way of shady forest earlier than rising into clearings with gorgeous mountain views. It’s powerful, however fixed glimpses of snowy peaks assist preserve spirits excessive.
Stunning views alongside the Prejsllopi Go path. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
There are many viewpoints to pause for a snack or snap a photograph. One spotlight is a area lush with white flowers, completely framing Zla Kolata—Montenegro’s highest peak—within the distance.
The path continues alongside rocky ridgelines and grassy slopes, crossing from Albania into Montenegro after which again once more.
At one level, there’s an ice cave, a welcome chilly retreat from the scorching summer time solar.
One other memorable cease is a family-run tea home. Laundry billows within the yard whereas a white horse grazes close by, and we sit at picnic tables having fun with Turkish espresso and Coca-Cola. The household kindly refills our water bottles without cost.
After a knee-killing 900-meter descent (my legs have been on hearth!), we lastly attain Çerem and our lodging for the night time, Vita Guesthouse.
Stunning views from Vita Guesthouse. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Doberdol, Albania
Period: 1 nightHiking Distance: 16 kilometersAscent: 1,100 metersDescent: 650 metersHighlights: Rocky surroundings switching to alpine landscapes, a espresso cease with a view, and staying in a single day in one of the distant locations within the Balkans.Resort: Leonardi Guesthouse sits at 5,780 ft and gives A-frame cabins, tenting, and hostel-style dorms. It’s a social hub with a full bar and unbelievable views—the right place to mingle with fellow hikers. Simply be aware that loos are shared with everybody (as is the case all over the place in Doberdol).
At the moment’s trek to Doberdol—one of many world’s most distant villages—contains scenic however steep ascents and descents by way of the gorgeous Gashi River Nature Reserve.
I’ve realized from yesterday and introduced my knee compression sleeve for as we speak!
The primary hour is an actual calf-killer, with a relentless uphill that defines “Sort 2 Enjoyable.” Lastly, we hit a automobile street for a short break from the ache.
That’s the theme for a lot of the day: steep climbs combined with gentler, scenic stretches. Whereas yesterday’s views have been largely rocky peaks, as we speak brings lush alpine slopes dotted with timber and meadows bursting with wildflowers.
Stunning views alongside the hike to Doberdol. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
After a picnic lunch and a tea break with a view at Visitor Home Balçina (extremely really useful!), the path continues alongside the slopes of the Shkelzen Massif within the Albanian Alps. That is the place the surroundings goes subsequent degree, with 360-degree alpine views.
Outdoors of a shaded uphill climb by way of the forest, these vistas stick with us virtually your entire technique to Doberdol, the place we test in to Leonardi Guesthouse for the night time.
Views from Leonardi Guesthouse. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Deçan, Kosovo
Period: 1 nightHiking Distance: 16 kilometersAscent: 900Descent: 900Highlights: Swimming in Love Coronary heart Lake, in addition to summiting Gjeravica and taking in infinite mountain views from the highest.Resort: Gacaferi Guesthouse—run by our information Adriatik’s household—has a heat, social vibe with attractive mountain views. Share a beer or soda with fellow hikers within the cozy lounge or on the out of doors deck. Dinner is a plentiful buffet of native dishes cooked by Adriatik’s mother, adopted by espresso or mountain fruit tea. At sundown, the mountains mild up in shades of orange and pink.
At the moment’s part of the Peaks of the Balkans trek is particularly gorgeous, with a mixture of idyllic alpine landscapes. The primary goal is summiting Gjeravica, Kosovo’s highest acknowledged peak at 2,656 meters.
We start mountaineering out of Doberdol alongside a river, passing small wood properties, grazing horses, and cows. Earlier than lengthy, we’re climbing rocky trails and grime paths winding by way of wide-open alpine surroundings.
Rising over a mountain go, we come to the Albania–Kosovo border, a memorable milestone with epic views of dramatic ridges and forested valleys stretching underneath a transparent blue sky.
From right here, the route weaves up and down, crossing ridgelines and patches of grime, rock, and even snow. After about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), we attain Love Coronary heart Lake—formed precisely like a coronary heart if seen from above. It’s an ideal spot for a (very chilly) swim for those who’re feeling courageous.
View of Love Coronary heart Lake. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
The climb continues, working these calves and thighs. Mountain climbing alongside the mountainside, I preserve pondering the view can’t get any higher—however it does.
The ultimate stretch is a grind, however the reward is breathtaking: 360-degree views of numerous jagged peaks.
Standing atop Gjeravica appears like gazing out over a sea of mountains, one of the lovely locations I’ve ever seen.
View from Gjeravica, the best peak in Kosovo, and I made a furry good friend! Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
From there, it’s on to Deçan, a small city tucked beneath the Accursed Mountains.
The largely downhill route is tough on the knees however winds by way of scenic meadows, wildflowers, and pine-dotted hills till lastly reaching Gacaferi Guesthouse for the night time.
Enjoyable on the Gacaferi Guesthouse patio. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Babino Polje, Montenegro
Period: 1 nightHiking Distance: 15 kilometersAscent: 600 metersDescent: 1,000 metersHighlights: Summit the Three Border Peak, mountaineering by way of fields of wildflowers, and swimming in Hrid Lake.Resort: “HRID” Eco Mountaineering Village gives cozy wood cabins with personal loos proper by the river, good for stress-free with a chilly drink (BYOB) after a protracted hike. The meals is a spotlight, with plentiful dinners together with salads, veggies, rice, potatoes, bread, meat dishes, and even vegetarian choices like soy patties.
At the moment’s trek—together with the summit of the Three Border Peak, the place Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro meet—begins with a gentle uphill climb.
The guesthouse grows smaller and smaller behind us as we zigzag up the luxurious inexperienced hillside, accompanied by birdsong and babbling streams. As we ascend, mountain views encompass us on all sides.
After a brief break beside a peaceable lake, we proceed towards the summit, ultimately cresting the backbone of the hillside at 2,351 meters above sea degree. The 360-degree views from the highest are completely gorgeous—infinite peaks that appear to roll on like ocean waves.
Three Border Peak views. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
On the descent (which nonetheless contains some uphill sections), we cross lush rolling hills, fields of wildflowers, and large rocky slopes.
Lastly, after a brief rock scramble, we attain Hrid Lake, also called the “Lake of Happiness,” and take a swim in its cool, crystal-clear waters.
From there, a reasonable woodland path brings us to our guesthouse for the night time within the quiet village of Babino Polje.
Going for a swim at Hrid Lake. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Vusanje (by way of Plav), Montenegro
Period: 1 nightHiking Distance: 15 kilometersAscent: 850 metersDescent: 850 metersHighlights: Summiting two peaks—Mount Taljanka and Mount Papadilla—and taking in views of epic dolomite massifs (essentially the most gorgeous view of the entire Peaks of the Balkans hike!).Resort: Moonlight Home has clear, comfy rooms and nice showers, plus unbelievable views of the Prokletije Nationwide Park peaks from the out of doors patio. Seize a beer or wine from the respect bar to unwind earlier than having fun with dinner with a view.
At the moment begins with a brief facet journey by automobile to Plav, a captivating lakeside city surrounded by mountains. Whereas definitely nonetheless relaxed, it feels extra bustling than anyplace else we’ve been alongside the trek, with grocery shops, cafes, and retailers lining its streets.
After grabbing snacks and a espresso, we go to Kula Redzepagica, a superbly preserved Ottoman-era tower home that after served as each a residence and a defensive fortification.
A room inside Kula Redzepagica. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
From there, we drive to the trailhead for as we speak’s hike in Montenegro’s Grbaja Valley, a part of Prokletije Nationwide Park. That is simply one of the lovely locations within the Balkans—perhaps even the world—residence to greater than 20 peaks above 2,400 meters.
Definitely, as we speak is my favourite day of the Peaks of the Balkans trek, due to each the private problem and the jaw-dropping views.
We begin down within the valley, gazing up on the panorama often called the “Yosemite of the Balkans.” From there, we head into the forest on a comparatively gradual, shady climb.
Yosemite of the Balkans. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
As soon as we emerge into the brilliant solar, although, the uphill turns into a lot more durable. The path winds by way of a large grassy valley scattered with wildflowers and rocky outcroppings, climbing steadily towards cliffs streaked with white stone.
The ascent is intense, however ultimately, we attain the summit of Mount Talijanka at 2,057 meters.
Wanting a technique, the Dolomite-like stone spires and sheer partitions stand virtually sculpted by hand—therefore the nickname “Dolomites of the Balkans.”
Beautiful views over the Dolomites of the Balkans. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Wanting the opposite method, infinite rolling mountains stretch towards Albania’s Kelmend area, a patchwork of rugged valleys, forests, and highland villages.
Our subsequent summit, Mount Popadija, is only a 15-minute stroll additional, reached by cresting the border between Montenegro and Albania.
From its peak, you may look again on the dramatic massifs behind you, or forward to inexperienced ridges dotted with meadows and rocky patches.
Stunning view from Mount Popadija. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
The descent is steep, with loads of unfastened sand and shale—a real knee-buster over 850 meters down. Fortunately, the gorgeous views and wildflowers distract me from the ache.
On the backside, a automobile waits to switch us to our guesthouse, Moonlight Home, in Vusanje for the night time.
Theth, Albania
Period: 1 nightHiking Distance: 15 kilometersAscent: 600 metersDescent: 900 metersHighlights: Crossing the border from Montenegro to Albania and seeing gorgeous rock formations—together with the “Matterhorn of Albania.”Resort: Bujtina Polia options clear, comfy rooms, however the true spotlight is the mountain views from the wrap-around porch. Get pleasure from beer, wine, or delicate drinks whereas taking within the surroundings, and don’t miss the restaurant’s selfmade glowing wine and olive oil served with scrumptious native dishes.
At the moment begins with a brief switch—and loads of off-roading—from our guesthouse to the trailhead. We’ll be mountaineering 13 kilometers, crossing the border from Montenegro into Albania to succeed in the energetic mountain village of Theth.
This border crossing can also be the place we transfer from Prokletije Nationwide Park to Theth Nationwide Park. The hike begins gently, with the path winding by way of a large, rocky valley surrounded by towering limestone peaks and dense forest.
Trekking by way of Fusha e Runices (Runices Subject), full of alpine wildflowers, evergreen timber, and colourful butterflies, whereas listening to birdsong and the crunch of rocks underfoot, is a second made much more unbelievable by the jagged peaks looming overhead.
View of Maje e Arapit. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Inside a couple of hours, the gorgeous Maje e Arapit—additionally known as the “Albanian Matterhorn”—comes into view, a formidable massif that makes me really feel so small and so grateful to be right here.
A little bit of historical past additionally provides perspective as we go a Chilly Battle–period bunker. Stepping inside feels sobering—a reminder of the area’s tense previous—and the small window that after watched the border now frames attractive valley and mountain views.
Chilly Battle bunker alongside the Peaks of the Balkans trek. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Persevering with on, we climb by way of two mountain passes, stopping at one for a picnic lunch. On one facet, the Matterhorn of Albania stands tall, whereas on the opposite, a sweeping panorama of layered, forested mountains stretches endlessly.
After rapidly devouring fruit and sandwiches, we start the descent—900 meters down unfastened shale and sand underneath the recent solar. Once we attain the forest, the scent of pine grows stronger and the bottom corporations up. It’s nonetheless steep, although, so that you’ll undoubtedly need trekking poles for this part.
About 90 minutes later, we attain a café bustling with hikers socializing and having fun with the views. We seize sodas and toast to a different epic day on the Peaks of the Balkans.
Stopping for a scenic lunch alongside the path. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Bonus Theth mountaineering & sightseeing
Though the Peaks of the Balkans trek technically ends right here, I extremely suggest spending an additional day in Theth to discover. Some highlights embody:
The Church of Theth (1892). A easy, lovely stone church that has develop into a village icon.
Kulla e Ngujimit (Theth Lock-in Tower). A centuries-old tower as soon as used to shelter males concerned in blood feuds underneath the standard Kanun code.
Grunas Waterfall. A 25-meter waterfall and swimming gap, reached by mountaineering about 45 minutes uphill from Theth.
Blue Eye. A brief drive brings you to the trailhead for this pure surprise—an intensely blue spring surrounded by lush forest that basically does seem like a human eye.
Swimming on the Blue Eye. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Peaks Of The Balkans Trek Packing Checklist
Alongside along with your toiletries and medicines, I extremely suggest bringing the next. Word that the clothes suggestions are primarily based on summer time journey when it is extremely sizzling within the Balkans:
Mountain climbing boots (for extra ankle assist)
Camp footwear (a pair of Teva sandals may even work nice for shared showers and swim days)
20-40 liter mountaineering backpack (I really like my budget-friendly G4Free 35L backpack)
Sunscreen
Sun shades with 100% UV safety (like Rheos Sun shades)
Lengthy-sleeve shirt with solar safety
2 pairs of light-weight mountaineering pants
6 moisture-wicking t-shirts and tank tops
1 packable rain jacket
1 packable down jacket
1 fleece (I didn’t put on mine, however I wish to have it in case)
1 clear outfit for dinners
1 clear outfit for the airplane (you’ll thank me later)
UV neck gaiter
4 pairs of moisture-wicking socks
4 pairs of sock liners (they may help fight blisters)
Moleskin & bandaids
Gel blister bandages (in case you get blisters)
Trekking poles
Hydration bladder
Water filtration system just like the LifeStraw Go bottle or LifeStraw Water Filter Straw
Knee compression sleeves
Digicam (I extremely suggest the Insta360 with Invisible Selfie Stick for enjoyable pictures on the go)
Energy financial institution / chargers
Click on right here for my full listing of mountaineering necessities.
You’ll need trekking poles when mountaineering the Peaks of the Balkans. Picture by way of Jessie Festa.
Peaks Of The Balkans FAQs & Mountain climbing Ideas
Now that we’ve gone over logistics, planning, and what the trek itself is like, let’s reply some regularly requested questions:
Q) What’s so particular in regards to the Peaks of the Balkans?
The Peaks of the Balkans path is exclusive as a result of it crosses three nations and allows you to expertise distant alpine landscapes, conventional villages, and genuine native tradition in a single unforgettable trek.
Q) Is a allow required for the Peaks of the Balkans trek?
Sure, you want a cross-border allow, which a information can normally organize, or you may apply for it straight with native police authorities.
Q) The place does the Peaks of the Balkans path begin?
Most hikers begin in Valbona (Albania), Theth (Albania), or Plav (Montenegro), however you may technically start at any level alongside the round route.
Q) Is the Peaks of the Balkans secure to hike alone?
The path is well-marked and usually secure, however try to be an skilled hiker and carry a map, eSIM, and a satellite tv for pc communicator in case of emergencies.
Q) Are you able to camp on the Peaks of the Balkans path?
Wild tenting is prohibited inside nationwide parks however typically allowed exterior of them, although most trekkers keep in village guesthouses. Some guesthouses additionally permit tenting onsite, like Leonardi Guesthouse in Doberdol.
Q) What foreign money is used whereas mountaineering the Peaks of the Balkans?
Albania makes use of the Albanian Lek and accepts Euros, whereas Kosovo and Montenegro use the Euro. To maintain issues easy, you need to use Euros all through your entire trek.
Q) Must you tip your Peaks of the Balkans information?
Whereas not necessary, it’s customary to tip your information. For the 10-day trek, every individual in our group tipped about 100€ (so 10€ per individual, per day).
Have you ever hiked the Peaks of the Balkans path?