How To Hike The Peaks Of The Balkans Path (In-Depth Information)

Seeking to hike the Peaks of the Balkans path in Europe?

Then you definately’re in the best place!

I’ve simply returned from a 10-day trek alongside this gorgeous Western Balkans mountain climbing 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. Throughout the hike, you’ll immerse your self in native tradition and go to distant villages which might be laborious to achieve by automotive, 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 complete breakdown, together with planning ideas, lodging ideas, a packing listing, a day-by-day itinerary, and extra!

Fast Info:
Size: 192 km (119 mi), often 10 days
Problem: Reasonable to strenuous
Allow: Required — apply no less than 2 weeks forward
Finest time: June–September
Security: Set up an eSIM in your telephone & think about a International Rescue membership
Really helpful information: Wilderness Balkans

What Is The Peaks Of The Balkans Path?

The Peaks of the Balkans path is a 192-kilometer round trekking route via 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.

In my view, what makes it particular is the prospect to expertise native life in a few of Europe’s most remoted areas whereas mountain climbing via surroundings that feels really untouched. It’s one of many world’s most lovely hikes, providing an expertise you’ll always remember!

Peaks Of The Balkans Logistics

Place to begin & tips on 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 probably fly into.

From Shkodër, you’ll must get to the trailhead. As a result of I went with a information, they organized this; nevertheless, if going by yourself, you’ll:

• 1) Catch a bus at 6:45am from Shkodër to Koman (8€/particular person), the place you’ll board the Koman–Fierze ferry at 9am (9€/particular person). The bus ought to get you there at round 8:30am. You should purchase each bus and ferry tickets right here.

It’s also possible to take a non-public taxi, however anticipate to pay nearer to 75€.

2) Journey by way of ferry to Fierze. The trip 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 trip is about 45–60 minutes. It’s also possible to ask your guesthouse in Shkodër that can assist you pre-arrange a driver for this leg.

Path size

The complete Peaks of the Balkans path is 192 kilometers (119 miles), usually accomplished 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 automotive street. For example, this tour provides a 5-day trek.

The itinerary outlined beneath consists of about 106 kilometers (66 miles) of mountain climbing.

Path issue

Reasonable to strenuous. There are definitely very difficult sections, however total, in case you’re an everyday hiker, you’ll haven’t any drawback with this path, particularly as there are alternatives to switch the route if wanted.

Climbing security

Whereas the path is well-marked, if going by yourself, be sure that 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 with the intention to get a rescue or evacuation in case you get injured. Since many areas alongside the path don’t have cell service, you’ll additionally need to get a satellite tv for pc communicator, just like the Garmin InReach Mini 2.

Path allow

You have to a allow to hike the Peaks of the Balkans path. When you’re going with an organization, they are going to probably safe this for you. When you’re mountain climbing by yourself, you’ll must contact the native authorities no less than two weeks prematurely:

• Albanian Police: ferdinant.gjeta@asp.gov.al
• Kosovo Police: pashuk.pepaj@kosovopolice.com

Make certain to hold a printed copy of your allow with you whereas mountain climbing.

Finest time to trek

One of the best time to do the Peaks of the Balkans trek is June via September, when the climate is heat and the paths are lined with wildflowers.

Throughout winter, elements of the paths are closed, and a number of the settlements shut for the season so it may be way more difficult, and doubtlessly not doable in any respect in some areas, to seek out lodging.

• Personally, I did the trek in late June and liked it!

Ingesting water

Within the cities of Tirana and Shkodër, I caught to bottled water; nevertheless, in the course of the hike, it was doable 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 finances for

Alongside the path:

• Lodging prices about 45€ per particular person per evening (based mostly 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€ (apart from Doberdol, the place they charged nearer to five€ for a glass of wine).

When 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 ideas. 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 once 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

Notable peaks alongside the way in which

• Maja Jezercë (2,694 m). The very best peak within the Albanian Alps, seen from Theth and Valbona, although often not summited on the basic circuit.
• Zla Kolata (2,534 m). The very best peak in Montenegro, usually included as an elective summit between Valbona and Çerem.
• Gjeravica (2,656 m). The very best peak in Kosovo, incessantly climbed on the day from Doberdol, after crossing from Albania into Kosovo.
• Maja e Arapit (2,217 m). Usually known as the Matterhorn of Albania because of its dramatic sheer cliffs and pyramidal form.
• Three Border Peak (2,354 m). It is a well-liked 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 provide unbelievable views of dolomite massifs.
• Maja e Popluks (2,569 m). An imposing peak that rises above Theth.

Hardest day

Valbona to Çerem, particularly in case you additionally select to summit Zla Kolata—the very best peak in Montenegro at 2,535 meters (8,317 toes)! Even with out summiting, this would be the hardest day of the hike.

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 resolution. This allowed me to easily present up and benefit from the hike whereas they dealt with logistics.

The full value was 1,250€ for a small group tour with a most of 12 individuals, although we solely had six. This included all lodging, meals, entrance charges, permits, transfers, and baggage transfers—principally every part in addition to drinks, souvenirs, and ideas.

That being mentioned, I noticed many solo hikers or teams of associates doing this trek absolutely self-guided and having fun with the expertise, particularly because the hike may 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 quite a lot of additional planning and reserving.

The place To Keep Throughout The Peaks Of The Balkans Trek

The guesthouses alongside the Peaks of the Balkans path have been very snug. Solely two lodging had shared loos, and a type of was solely with a handful of individuals. Here’s a fast have 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 just a few nights within the cities of Tirana and Shkodër earlier than and after the trek. My accommodations for these included:

• Enzo Rooms & Residence (Tirana, Albania)
• Lodge Tradita (Shkodër, Albania)
• Lodge Ikona (Shkodër, Albania)

10-Day Peaks Of The Balkans Itinerary (In-Depth)

Now that we’ve gone over the necessary logistics of this Balkans trek, let’s go over an in-depth itinerary so you may really 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 elective bonus day for extra journey actions in Theth.

Tirana, Albania (Pre-Trek)

Length: 2 nights
Lodge: Enzo Lodge & Flats provides 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 price 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 filled with 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.

If you wish to stretch your legs earlier than the trek, think about 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 comfy ambiance.

Shkodër, Albania (Pre-Trek)

Length: 1 evening
Lodge: Lodge Tradita sits in a superbly preserved 400-year-old home stuffed with Albanian people artwork and conventional decor. The central courtyard is a pleasant place to chill out or benefit from the resort’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 one among 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 Fortress, perched on a rocky hill above the confluence of the Buna, Drin, and Kir rivers.

Initially an Illyrian fortress later rebuilt by the Venetians, it has withstood centuries of battles and provides sweeping views of the encircling 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 title—serves glorious Italian dishes in a cute outside setting.

Valbona Valley, Albania

Length: 1 evening
Climbing Distance: 7 kilometers
Ascent: 250 meters
Descent: 50 meters
Highlights: Views over Koman Lake, mountain climbing alongside a crystal river, and visiting a waterfall.
Lodge: Neo Kulla Hikers Hive has clear, snug rooms with spectacular views of the Accursed Mountains from balconies and the patio. Count on a scrumptious feast for dinner, heat hospitality, and an opportunity to pattern native Albanian wine or natural teas made with wild marjoram.

Right this moment, the trek formally begins, however you’ll want to achieve the start line first. The drive from Shkodër to the Valbona Valley provides gorgeous mountain and river views your entire method.

To shorten the journey, you’ll board the Koman–Fierze ferry for a spectacular cruise via the emerald waters of Koman Lake surrounded by towering cliffs and slender gorges.

As soon as off the boat, we drive about 25 minutes to Restaurant Fisniku in Bajram Curri—the final main city earlier than getting into Valbona Valley Nationwide Park.

From there, it’s about 25 extra minutes by automotive to achieve 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.

Strolling via the forest, we go wild juniper, rosemary, chamomile, and tiny alpine strawberries—crops locals have lengthy used for meals, medication, 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, but it surely was icy chilly!

As the trail winds via shady forest and rocky sections, preserve your eyes peeled for a moss-covered Chilly Conflict bunker slowly being reclaimed by the forest. You’ll see just a few 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 option to Neo Kulla Hikers Hive, the place the views proceed from the property.

Çerem, Albania

Length: 1 evening
Climbing Distance: 16 kilometers
Ascent: 1100 meters
Descent: 1000 meters
Highlights: Views of snow-topped peaks, the prospect to summit Zla Kolata, and stopping for drinks at an area dwelling alongside the hike.
Lodge: Vita Guesthouse is an easy, 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 do-it-yourself meals make for a welcoming keep the place you really really feel cared for.

Right this moment is the toughest day of the trek, overlaying 16 kilometers by way of the Prejsllopi Move 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 large boulders. At instances, the path leads via shady forest earlier than rising into clearings with gorgeous mountain views. It’s powerful, however fixed glimpses of snowy peaks assist preserve spirits excessive.

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 season 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 free of charge.

After a knee-killing 900-meter descent (my legs have been on fireplace!), we lastly attain Çerem and our lodging for the evening, Vita Guesthouse.

Doberdol, Albania

Length: 1 evening
Climbing Distance: 16 kilometers
Ascent: 1,100 meters
Descent: 650 meters
Highlights: 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.
Lodge: Leonardi Guesthouse sits at 5,780 toes and provides A-frame cabins, tenting, and hostel-style dorms. It’s a social hub with a full bar and unbelievable views—the proper place to mingle with fellow hikers. Simply word that loos are shared with everybody (as is the case all over the place in Doberdol).

Right this moment’s trek to Doberdol—one of many world’s most distant villages—consists of scenic however steep ascents and descents via the gorgeous Gashi River Nature Reserve.

I’ve discovered 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 “Kind 2 Enjoyable.” Lastly, we hit a automotive 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 principally rocky peaks, as we speak brings lush alpine slopes dotted with timber and meadows bursting with wildflowers.

After a picnic lunch and a tea break with a view at Visitor Home Balçina (extremely advisable!), the path continues alongside the slopes of the Shkelzen Massif within the Albanian Alps. That is the place the surroundings goes subsequent stage, with 360-degree alpine views.

Exterior of a shaded uphill climb via the forest, these vistas stick with us virtually your entire option to Doberdol, the place we test in to Leonardi Guesthouse for the evening.

Deçan, Kosovo

Length: 1 evening
Climbing Distance: 16 kilometers
Ascent: 900
Descent: 900
Highlights: Swimming in Love Coronary heart Lake, in addition to summiting Gjeravica and taking in infinite mountain views from the highest.
Lodge: 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 outside 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 gentle up in shades of orange and pink.

Right this moment’s part of the Peaks of the Balkans trek is particularly gorgeous, with a mixture of idyllic alpine landscapes. The principle goal is summiting Gjeravica, Kosovo’s highest acknowledged peak at 2,656 meters.

We start mountain climbing out of Doberdol alongside a river, passing small picket properties, grazing horses, and cows. Earlier than lengthy, we’re climbing rocky trails and dust paths winding via 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 below a transparent blue sky.

From right here, the route weaves up and down, crossing ridgelines and patches of dust, 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 in case you’re feeling courageous.

The climb continues, working these calves and thighs. Climbing alongside the mountainside, I preserve pondering the view can’t get any higher—but it surely 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.

From there, it’s on to Deçan, a small city tucked beneath the Accursed Mountains.

The principally downhill route is tough on the knees however winds via scenic meadows, wildflowers, and pine-dotted hills till lastly reaching Gacaferi Guesthouse for the evening.

Babino Polje, Montenegro

Length: 1 evening
Climbing Distance: 15 kilometers
Ascent: 600 meters
Descent: 1,000 meters
Highlights: Summit the Three Border Peak, mountain climbing via fields of wildflowers, and swimming in Hrid Lake.
Lodge: “HRID” Eco Mountaineering Village provides cozy picket cabins with personal loos proper by the river, excellent 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.

Right this moment’s trek—together with the summit of the Three Border Peak, the place Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro meet—begins with a gradual 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 stage. The 360-degree views from the highest are completely gorgeous—infinite peaks that appear to roll on like ocean waves.

On the descent (which nonetheless consists of 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 average woodland path brings us to our guesthouse for the evening within the quiet village of Babino Polje.

Vusanje (by way of Plav), Montenegro

Length: 1 evening
Climbing Distance: 15 kilometers
Ascent: 850 meters
Descent: 850 meters
Highlights: Summiting two peaks—Mount Taljanka and Mount Papadilla—and taking in views of epic dolomite massifs (probably the most gorgeous view of the entire Peaks of the Balkans hike!).
Lodge: Moonlight Home has clear, snug rooms and nice showers, plus unbelievable views of the Prokletije Nationwide Park peaks from the outside patio. Seize a beer or wine from the respect bar to unwind earlier than having fun with dinner with a view.

Right this moment begins with a brief facet journey by automotive to Plav, a captivating lakeside city surrounded by mountains. Whereas definitely nonetheless relaxed, it feels extra bustling than wherever 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 when served as each a residence and a defensive fortification.

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—dwelling to greater than 20 peaks above 2,400 meters.

Undoubtedly, as we speak is my favourite day of the Peaks of the Balkans trek, because of each the non-public 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.

As soon as we emerge into the brilliant solar, although, the uphill turns into a lot more durable. The path winds via 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.

Trying a technique, the Dolomite-like stone spires and sheer partitions stand virtually sculpted by hand—therefore the nickname “Dolomites of the Balkans.”

Trying 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.

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 automotive waits to switch us to our guesthouse, Moonlight Home, in Vusanje for the evening.

Theth, Albania

Length: 1 evening
Climbing Distance: 15 kilometers
Ascent: 600 meters
Descent: 900 meters
Highlights: Crossing the border from Montenegro to Albania and seeing gorgeous rock formations—together with the “Matterhorn of Albania.”
Lodge: Bujtina Polia options clear, snug rooms, however the actual spotlight is the mountain views from the wrap-around porch. Take pleasure in beer, wine, or comfortable drinks whereas taking within the surroundings, and don’t miss the restaurant’s do-it-yourself glowing wine and olive oil served with scrumptious native dishes.

Right this moment begins with a brief switch—and loads of off-roading—from our guesthouse to the trailhead. We’ll be mountain climbing 13 kilometers, crossing the border from Montenegro into Albania to achieve the energetic mountain village of Theth.

This border crossing can be the place we transfer from Prokletije Nationwide Park to Theth Nationwide Park. The hike begins gently, with the path winding via a large, rocky valley surrounded by towering limestone peaks and dense forest.

Trekking via Fusha e Runices (Runices Discipline), stuffed with 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.

Inside just a few 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 Conflict–period bunker. Stepping inside feels sobering—a reminder of the area’s tense previous—and the small window that when watched the border now frames attractive valley and mountain views.

Persevering with on, we climb via 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 shortly devouring fruit and sandwiches, we start the descent—900 meters down unfastened shale and sand below the new 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 positively 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.

Bonus Theth mountain climbing & 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 change 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 below the standard Kanun code.
• Grunas Waterfall. A 25-meter waterfall and swimming gap, reached by mountain climbing about 45 minutes uphill from Theth.
• Blue Eye. A brief drive brings you to the trailhead for this pure marvel—an intensely blue spring surrounded by lush forest that basically does seem like a human eye.

Peaks Of The Balkans Trek Packing Listing

Alongside together with your toiletries and medicines, I extremely suggest bringing the next. Observe that the clothes suggestions are based mostly on summer season journey when it is vitally scorching within the Balkans:

• Climbing boots (for extra ankle assist)
• Camp sneakers (a pair of Teva sandals may even work nice for shared showers and swim days)
• 20-40 liter mountain climbing 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 mountain climbing 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 aircraft (you’ll thank me later)
• UV neck gaiter
• 4 pairs of moisture-wicking socks
• 4 pairs of sock liners (they might 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 mountain climbing necessities.

Peaks Of The Balkans FAQs & Climbing Suggestions

Now that we’ve gone over logistics, planning, and what the trek itself is like, let’s reply some incessantly requested questions:

Q) What’s so particular concerning 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 often organize, or you may apply for it instantly 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 protected to hike alone?

The path is well-marked and customarily protected, however you have 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 usually allowed exterior of them, although most trekkers keep in village guesthouses. Some guesthouses additionally enable tenting onsite, like Leonardi Guesthouse in Doberdol.

Q) What forex is used whereas mountain climbing 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) Do you have to tip your Peaks of the Balkans information?

Whereas not obligatory, it’s customary to tip your information. For the 10-day trek, every particular person in our group tipped about 100€ (so 10€ per particular person, per day).