Peaks of the Balkans
Peaks of the Balkans
From
1100 €
Your Package Price
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Tirana and Transfer to Shkodra (D) Your journey begins with your arrival at Tirana Airport, followed by a transfer to the historic town of Shkodra. Spend the day immersing yourself in the rich cultural offerings of this vibrant city. Arrive in Shkoder and accommodate at the hotel from Tirana Airport is 1h 30 min from drive. Meeting the guide and the group for a short briefing from 19:00 – 21:00 hrs. If you wish to travel from other airports and that be provided on demand, we can provide you with separate transfer prices for these airports: Podgorica Airport (1h 30 min from the start location), Tivat International Airport (2 hrs 40 min from the start location) Prishtina Airport (3 hrs 40 min from the start location), Skopje International Airport (4 hrs 40 min). Overnight at Hotel Argenti or Similar Category.
Day 2: Transfer to Theth | Hike Nderlyse – Theth (B, L, D) Kick off your hiking experience in the picturesque village of Theth in Northern Albania. Your first day on the Peaks of the Balkans trail will commence with a transfer from Shkodra to the village of Nderlyse, a quaint hamlet nestled at the base of the Peaks of the Balkans. Nderlyse is renowned for its picturesque Shala River, which has sculpted breathtaking waterfalls and unique rock formations akin to natural baths and pools. Following a brief exploration of this captivating area, you will embark on a gentle hike towards Theth. En route, you will also have the opportunity to visit the notable waterfall, enhancing your journey with its natural splendor.
After we arrive in Theth discover the unique Roman Catholic church, including the world-renowned Kulla e Ngujimit, a three-story rock structure with no windows. Overnight at Polia Guest House or Similar Category.
- Distance: 10 km
- Elevation Gain: 266 m
- Elevation Loss: 435 m
Day 3: Hike Theth – Valbona (B, L, D) Embark on one of Albania’s iconic trails, crossing the Valbona Pass via an ancient mule track connecting the tribal regions of Shala and Nikaj. Marvel at the diverse landscapes as you journey to Valbona. Overnight at Hotel Fusha e Gjes or Similar Category.
- Distance: 16.4 km (10.50 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 1175m (3855ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 940m (3080ft)
- Minimal elevation: 730m (2390ft)
- Maximal elevation: 1854m (6082ft)
Day 4: Hike over Prosllopi Pass to the summer village of Cerem (B, L, D) Choose the breathtaking ‘high’ route via Prosllopi Pass as you traverse the Kollata mountain area, this trail will take you to the Montenegrin border and the country’s highest peak, Kollata e Keqe, offering fantastic views of rugged landscapes. Overnight at Guesthouse Kujtim Gocaj or Similar Category.
- Distance: 15.5 km (9.63 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 1215m (3986ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 1005m (3300ft)
- Minimal elevation: 1215m (3985ft)
- Maximal elevation: 2039m (6689ft)
Day 5: Hike Cerem – Doberdol (B, L, D) Discover the pastoral charm of shepherd villages accessible only by foot, as you hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the UNESCO-listed Gashi Valley and the glacial lakes of the Sulbica plateau. Over two days, traverse diverse environments filled with abundant flora and lush greenery en route to Doberdol. Along the way, experience genuine local hospitality, with villagers offering natural products and refreshments beneath tree-canopied makeshift cafes.
Encounter sheep, goats, cows, and horses essential to the local economy while exploring some of the world's oldest woodlands. These ancient forests, protected by UNESCO since 2017, are part of the Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and extend into the Ancient Beech Forests of Germany, a treasured natural heritage shared by 12 countries. Overnight at Guest House Bashkimi or Similar Category.
- Distance: 16.8 km (10.43 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 1100m (3608ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 520m (1706ft)
- Minimal elevation: 1180m (3871ft)
- Maximal elevation: 1920m (6299ft)
Day 6: Hike Doberdol – Gjeravica Peak – Doberdol (B, L, D) Embark on an exhilarating journey to conquer Gjeravica, the highest peak in Kosovo, via a well-defined loop trail starting from Doberdol. This route allows you to explore the tranquil, unguarded borders while offering a unique opportunity to ascend Gjeravica or enjoy a leisurely day on the plateau above the tree line. Here, you'll encounter local shepherds tending to their goats, sheep, and cows amidst the picturesque landscape. The trail features a captivating terrain with glacial lakes, small streams, and crests that provide expansive views of the surrounding mountains. Notably, these pristine glacial lakes host the Triton salamander, an indicator of the water's purity. Culturally, this path traverses the historically significant border that separates Kosovo from Albania. Once one of the most fortified borders during the communist era, dividing Albania and former Yugoslavia, today it stands largely unprotected, offering a serene crossing for adventurers. Overnight at Guest House Bashkimi or Similar Category.
- Distance: 18.5 km (5.63 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 955m (3133ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 960m (3149ft)
- Minimal elevation: 1750m (5741ft)
- Maximal elevation: 2656m (8713ft)
Day 7: Hike Doberdol – Milisevc (B, L, D) Embark on a culturally rich trek through the vibrant shepherd communities of Albania and Montenegro, culminating in the ascent of Tromedja, renowned as the Three Border Peak. This section of the journey offers breathtaking panoramic views and traverses various picturesque passes, including Qafa Bogice Pass, Qafa Belegu Pass, and Qafa Roshkodoli Pass. A unique aspect of this trail is the exploration of Gacaferi pastures and Milishevc, which serve not as villages, but as seasonal shepherd camps. These locations are among the most secluded on the trail, lending a unique charm to the hike. Culturally, Milishevc stands out as a quaint, remote summer settlement with strong ties to the city of Peja. Increasingly, mountain huts in this area are being adapted for tourist accommodation, offering a rare glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the region's shepherds. Overnight at Kulla Guesthouse or Similar Category.
- Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 480m (1574ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 790m (2591ft)
- Minimal elevation: 1670m (5479ft)
- Maximal elevation: 2240m (7349ft)
Day 8: Hike Milisevc – Babino Polje (B, L, D) Discover some of the region's most stunning vistas as you embark on a unique segment of the Peak of the Balkans hike. This route offers a picturesque detour from the classic trail, passing by pristine glacial lakes and offering expansive views over the city of Peja. Designed to enhance your hiking experience, this alternative path allows you to bypass less scenic portions of the hike and skip some car transfers. This adventure leads you through the lesser-explored trails of the Accursed Mountains in the Kosovo section, eventually merging back with the classic route from Liqenat to Babino Polje, which passes through Zavoj Ravno Selo. Cultural Insight: Babino Polje, meaning ‘Grandma’s fields,’ is a delightful spot along the Peaks of the Balkans trail in Montenegro. Known for their generous hospitality, the Montenegrin Muslims residing in this area warmly welcome travelers. Be sure to share a glass of rakija with them for an authentic cultural experience. Overnight at Eko Katun Hako or Similar Category.
- Distance: 12.5 km (7.76 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 610 m (2000 ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 775 m (2540 ft)
- Minimal elevation: 1508 m (4945 ft)
- Maximal elevation: 2155 m (7070 ft)
Day 9: Transfer Babino Polje – Grbaja Valley | Hike to Taljanka Peak | Transfer to Vusanje (B, L, D) Discover the breathtaking allure of Grbaja Valley as you embark on a scenic hike to Taljanka Peak, offering panoramic views of the magnificent Karanfil rock massif. This valley is a noteworthy deviation from the traditional Peaks of the Balkans trail, and all of our guides agree that a visit to the region is incomplete without experiencing the vista from Grbaja. Nestled in Montenegro, Grbaja Valley was once celebrated as the most beautiful valley in Tito's Yugoslavia, now comprising seven independent states. Your journey will begin with a 20-minute transport, leading to the ascent of Taljanka Peak. Culturally significant, Grbaja is home to a Bronze Age rock engraving known as The Great Mother, depicting a mother and father shielding their child from wolves. Local lore holds that this rock possesses healing properties and enhances women's fertility. Overnight at Guest House "Vucetaj" or Similar Category.
- Distance: 9.2 km (5.71 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 1100m (3605ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 995m (3260ft)
- Minimal elevation: 1140m (3740ft)
- Maximal Elevation 2057m (6748ft)
Day 10: Hike Vusanje – Theth (B, L, D) Embark on an exhilarating trek through the challenging terrain of the Accursed Mountains to conclude your hiking adventure. Experience the rugged beauty and historical remnants as you traverse into Albania. Your journey begins in Vusanje, with a hike towards the historic Albanian village of Theth. This path leads through the most formidable sections of the Accursed Mountains, once a restricted zone during the Communist era. Starting with a trek through Ropojane Valley, you will be flanked by rocky gullies on both sides. This extensive valley primarily follows a 4WD track for approximately 6.5 kilometers until you reach Ropojane Lake. The lake's water level varies, depending on the previous winter's snowfall, so a car transfer option is available to cover this section. As you make your way through the dramatic cliffs that define the day’s journey, you'll also encounter a military bunker and old border crossing signs, marking your entry into Albania. The path through Ropojane Lake serves as the border between the two nations. This segment is notably the rockiest of your entire trip, offering spectacular views of mountains, meadows, and valleys. Your trek concludes in Theth, completing the circuit. After a brief rest, you will be transferred to your hotel in Shkodra for an overnight stay. Overnight at Hotel Argenti or Similar Category.
- Distance: 17.8 km (11.06 mi)
- Uphill cumulative: 922m (3024 ft)
- Downhill cumulative: 1323m (4340 ft)
- Minimal elevation: 730m (2395 ft)
- Maximal elevation: 1740m (5705 ft)
Day 11: Shkodra Transfer to Tirana Airport (B)
Transfer to Tirana Airport for your departure as per your flight schedule.
Prices
€ 1100 per person sharing a double, twin, triple or quadruple room for 10 - 11 participants in a group
€ 1250 per person sharing a double, twin, triple or quadruple room for 8 - 9 participants in a group
€ 1350 per person sharing a double, twin, triple or quadruple room for 6 - 7 participants in a group
€ 1650 per person sharing a double, twin, triple or quadruple room for 4 - 5 participants in a group
Single supplement if available = € 260. (Single rooms will usually be double or twin for single use.)
Included
- English Speaking Guide throw out the hike
- Transfers and transportations as per Itinerary from Tirana Airport for Arrival and Departures
- Accommodation for 10 nights in hotel, guesthouse, and mountain huts. In the mountains, the rooms are shared
- 10 breakfasts(B), 9 lunches(L), 10 dinners(D)
- All internal transfers
- Border crossing permits
- Entrance fees for the National Parks
- All taxes
- 24/7 assistance from Balkan Destination
Excluded
- Luggage transfer during the hike (can be offered on demand)
- Travel insurance (should be secured by the travelers)
- Gratuities to guide and drivers
- Everything not mentioned in the “Includes” section
Best months for tours
We recommend you booking this tour for one of the months: June, July, or August and September.
Peaks of the Balkans Map
Quick summary:
Trail length: 192 kilometers (119.3 miles)
Min. elevation: 670 meters (2198 ft) | Max. elevation: 2,290 meters (7513.12 ft)
Ascent: 9,800 meters (32152.23 ft) | Descent: 9,900 meters (32480.31 ft)
Duration: 11 days
This is a map guide of the Western Balkans’ wildest and most unspoiled mountain range, which stretches through Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro.
This map is for Peaks of the Balkans the Classic Route, which encompasses 9 hiking days 11 days from TIA Airport, featuring routes to the most scenic villages and summer huts of the three countries, as well as crossing borders outside of the official border crossing checkpoints.
Balkan Destination Holiday Information
Transfers Enjoy the convenience of private group transfers throughout your tour with Balkan Destination. Depending on road conditions, these transfers will be conducted using either regular cars or 4×4 vehicles. On the trail, we can also arrange shortcut transfers for more remote paths or to bypass asphalt road segments.
Food & Water Each day’s end brings the anticipation of freshly cooked meals, blending the rich culinary traditions of the Balkans. Guesthouse breakfasts feature simple, homemade bread, locally sourced vegetables, dairy products, and eggs. Dinners consist of traditional soups, meat dishes, vegetables, and pies. Packed lunches, often including sandwiches with cheese and vegetables, are provided for your convenience.
Vegetarian and dietary needs are accommodated with basic but limited options. We suggest bringing a refillable water bottle for trekking. You can safely fill it from mountain streams or guesthouse taps, but for those who prefer treated water, consider bringing water treatment tablets.
Accommodation Your stay will be in homely guesthouses or lodges with simple bathroom facilities. Rooms will generally accommodate two to five guests each, and sharing between male and female groups may be necessary unless otherwise requested—subject to availability. All accommodations provide sheets, blankets, towels, shampoo, warm water, and basic services, though we recommend packing a travel towel and sleep sack for added comfort. Private rooms are available at an additional cost, with limited availability.
Recommended Reading Enhance your Balkan experience with these recommended readings:
- "Broken April" by Ismail Kadare, set in these mountainous regions. This novel was adapted into a film titled "Behind the Sun" by French director Liria Begueja and Brazilian director Walter Salles.
- "High Albania" by Edith Durham
Essential Information
- Time Zone: GMT +1
- Language: Albanian is spoken in Kosovo and Albania, and Serbian/Montenegrin is common in Montenegro. While many city dwellers speak English, remote areas may not offer the same linguistic accessibility. German is also spoken due to a notable diaspora in German-speaking countries.
- Electricity: The region uses 220V, 50 Hz electric systems and two-pin round plugs.
- Currency: The Euro (EUR) is official in Kosovo and Montenegro, while the Lek is used in Albania Euro widely accepted in Albania also. Credit and cash machines are available in Tirana, Shkodra, theth, Peja, Plav, we recommend that you have cash in euros with you for your personal needs.
- Cost of Living: The region offers affordable prices compared to Western Europe. Sample costs include:
- A 3-course meal in a standard restaurant: EUR 14–20 per person
- A flask of mineral water from a street vendor: EUR 0.5–1.00
- A cup of coffee: EUR 0.8–2.5
For any additional questions or to make special arrangements, please contact Balkan Destination.
Cancellation Policy
Payment Conditions for Group Departure dates, for clients that book directly at our website.
1.1. THE CLIENT is required to pay Balkan Destination a deposit of 30% of the total amount at the moment he/she book the tour as per departure dates or Private tour (FIT) at our website.
1.2. The remaining 70% of the total amount must be paid to Balkan Destination LTD, no later than 30 days prior to start date of services of this tour group departure or Private (FIT) tour.
1.3. If you book this tour within 30 days before the tour starts according to the group departure dates or as per your departure date as a private (FIT) tour, we will require from you to pay 100% whole amount before the tour starts.
Cancellation Policy for Group Departure dates and Private Tours
For group tours of 6 people or more, the following cancellation policy will apply:
a. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 45 days or more, prior to the arrival date, then a full refund will be given, minus a bank transaction charges.
b. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 44 to 30 days, prior to the arrival date, a 10 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
c. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 29 to 21 days, prior to the arrival date, a 30 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
d. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 20 to 15 days, prior to the arrival date, a 50 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
e. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 14 to 7 days, prior to the arrival date, a 70 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
f. If the reservation is cancelled/amended less than 7 days prior to the arrival date a non-refund will apply.
g. In case of no shows or early interruption of services a strict non-refund rule will apply.
Cancellation for FIT/Individuals private bookings. FIT tours of 5 participants or less which have been confirmed paid and Invoice settled, can be cancelled without penalty up to 10 days prior to arrival date. Cancellations after this deadline will be charged 100% in full. Bank transfer for refunds will be the recipients’ responsibility.
Balkan Destination reserve the right to cancel any of the published tours on our site only according to fixed dates that are published for groups. When there are not enough participants on the relevant dates, in such cases, we may cancel the departure date by notifying the clients that already booked in a written notice, no later than 30 days prior to the start of the tour departure date. In such cases when we cancel a departure due to insufficient participants on the due date, the clients will be refunded all the money 100 % they have paid to us in total.
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