Peaks of the Balkans

DAY 1: Welcome to Kosovo

Përshëndetje! It means ‘hello’ in Albanian, the primary language spoken in Kosovo. Other languages spoken include Turkish, Serbian, Romani and Bosnian. And that’s just one of the fascinating things about this Balkan nation –  the newest country in the world! It remains less travelled compared to some of its neighbours, making you somewhat of a pioneer. But, the history can wait – today is all about settling into the country’s capital city, Prishtina.

On your arrival at Prishtina airport, you will be greeted by a friendly face who will drive you to your hotel. After checking in and freshening up, you may opt to meet the rest of the group for a short walk around this unique city, which is a fascinating little mish-mash of old and new buildings. 

Tonight’s welcome dinner is special. It’s time to settle-in and let the group-bonding begin. Your tour leader will play host at a traditional Kosovar restaurant – it’s one of his favourites!

Accommodation: City Inn Hotel (or similar)
Included: Dinner

DAY 2: Ancient Roman City of Ulpiana & Prizren

We hope you’re feeling well rested, as your first full day in Kosovo is an exciting one! After breakfast, it’s a short drive to the small town of Gracanica – home to one of Kosovo’s biggest Serb communities as well as the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage listed Gracanica Monastery – built in the 14th century. 

Next, it’s onto Prizren by way of the Prevalla Valley for a scenic coffee stop. Tucked into the Sharr Mountains, this is truly one of the most spectacular places in the country to sit with a ‘cuppa’ and ponder just how far from home you are. If you think this is scenic, just wait until you see what awaits you on the rest of the adventure!

Your final stop today is Prizren, the second most populous city in Kosovo and one of the prettiest cities in the Balkans. From these foothills of the Sharr mountain range, you can explore more of the city with our local guide this afternoon!

Accommodation: Adler Hotel (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 3: Prizren and Krusha e Madhe Village

There’s lots to see in Prizren this morning as you visit the top sights and slowly piece together Kosovo’s complicated but fascinating history. The first couple of stops won’t take you far from your hotel as you visit the Castle of Prizren and the Sinan Pasha Mosque. We won’t list all the iconic sights you’ll be visiting this morning as that would just ruin the surprise, right?!

This afternoon’s activities are sure to get the group chatting and mingling as we visit the wine region of Rahovec, affectionately known as the ‘wine cellar of Kosovo’, because of the great wine produced here. 

Back in Prizren, you’ll have a few hours to yourself – ideal, as you get ready for another jam-packed day of adventures tomorrow!

Accommodation: Adler Hotel (or similar)
Included: Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 4: UNESCO Monasteries and Rugova Canyon

Yesterday we dipped our toe into learning about Kosovo’s fascinating history, and today we’ll dive even deeper into the country’s past to explore how the Greek, Roman and Turkish cultures influenced the region. The morning will have us visiting traditional Albanian mountain houses outside the town of Gjakova – a real eye-opener – before seeing the magnificent Decani Monastery, a great example of Orthodox design, and… is this the bit where we mention that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site?!

Then, it’s onto Peja – home to the Patriarchal Monastery of Pec, another UNESCO site. Be sure to tap into the knowledge of your local guide as you walk around this afternoon. 

Tonight you’re in for an accommodation experience like no other as you stay in the first of several guesthouses on the trip. Your host tonight is Fetije, a charismatic and charming local lady with a true passion for her home country! She will prepare a traditional Albanian meal for dinner, and by now (surely), you’ll be feeling how special and unique this journey is.

Accommodation: Guesthouse Shqiponja
Included: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 5: Roshkodol Pasture & Glacial Lakes

Rise and shine! It’s an early breakfast this morning because the real adventure starts now… it’s trekking time. Today’s mission is to conquer the iconic Shkodra Pass (aka. Lugu i Shkodrёs), an ancient route that’s been connecting trekkers, traders and mountain goats to Northern Albania for centuries.

The first leg of the trail isn’t messing around, with some serious ascents and descents that’ll have your thighs burning in that “I’m earning this!” kind of way. Oh, and at 2,265 metres above sea level, that breathless feeling isn’t just you – the air’s genuinely thinner up here.

The payoff for all that struggle is your endpoint, Roshkodol Pasture, still in Kosovo and brimming with the kind of alpine goodness that makes you want to frolic like you’re in a scene from ‘The Sound of Music’. By the time you collapse into a seat for dinner, you’ll be grinning from ear to ear, with maybe a few sore muscles to match.

Hike: 12 km, 5-6hrs
Uphill: 900m, Downhill: 580m, Maximum altitude: 2265m
Accommodation: Roshkodoli Guesthouse
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 6: Gacaferi Hamlet

After yesterday’s sweat-soaked challenge, today’s hike gives your legs a bit of a breather, with a mellow stroll from Roshkodol Pasture to Gacaferi Hamlet. Your new home for the night is the guesthouse of Safete Gacaferi, a local legend who will make you feel right at home with a warm welcome and the kind of home-cooked food that makes you forget all about the kilometres you’ve covered today.

When it comes to the views here, you’re in for a treat. From Safete’s place, you’ll be surrounded by some of Kosovo’s highest peaks, including the mighty Gjeravica summit, Mariash, and Rupa. Kick back, soak it all in and let today be about recharging,because the mountain trails aren’t even close to being done with you yet!

Hike: 13 km, 5-6hrs
Uphill: 800m, Downhill: 600m; Maximum altitude: 2230m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Gacaferi
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 7: Doberdol Pasture

Today’s hike kicks off from Gacaferi Hamlet and takes you toward the dazzling Tropoja Lake. Along the way, you’ll summit the iconic three-border point where Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro collide. Photo op time!

From this sky-splitting peak, it’s all downhill to Doberdol, a delightfully unspoilt alpine pasture that still looks exactly like it did hundreds of years ago. The fields ripple out around you in waves of green, dotted with sheep, cows and horses living their best lives in the fresh mountain air. Not a scene you’re used to back at home, right? For a well-earned cooldown from all that hiking, Tropoja Lake is waiting for you – icy and refreshing enough to wake up even the most exhausted of the crew.

Hike: 8 km, 4-5hrs
Uphill: 550m, Downhill: 550m; Maximum altitude: 2236m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Bashkimi
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 8: Balqin Hamlet & Cerem Village

After all the action so far, today’s hike slows the tempo – but don’t be fooled, it’s still a solid 16-kilometre on the trail, and the ‘WOW’ factor is still in full swing. The journey takes you across the border into Montenegro, where you’ll stumble upon the ruins of an old military border post, now reduced to weathered stone and wildflowers – proof that even the region’s age-old conflicts can’t outdo the sheer power of these mountains.

The headline act today is Hrid Lake. This next-level lake is perfect for a mid-hike cool-off, so pack your swimmers! After a dip (or a very brave paddle… it’s cold, we don’t blame you!), enjoy soaking up your surroundings and catching your breath before heading back to the trail to tackle the final stretch. By the end of the day, you’ll have clocked some serious mileage and be wiped out in the best way possible. Good night!

Hike: 16 km, 6-7hrs
Uphill: 500m, Downhill: 970m; Maximum altitude: 2140m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Hana
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 9: Grebaja National Park

Wow, do we have a treat in store for you today. After a short drive to Grebaje Valley, you’ll start the trek with an uphill climb through a mossy-green forest, emerging at Vallushnica Peak for views that’ll give your eyes a full-on workout.

The route continues with a sweat-inducing push to Taljanka Peak at 2,056 metres, surrounded by scenery that’ll leave you speechless (or gasping for air – both are valid!). Along the way, you’ll spot Cold War-era bunkers scattered across the hills, reminders of Albania’s tense past under Enver Hoxha. Your guide has all the stories, so what better time for a crash course in history with a killer backdrop than now?

After tackling the craggy, knife-edge trails, you’ll break for a well-earned picnic in an alpine meadow bursting with wildflowers and butterflies. By the time you descend into the valley and transfer to Vusanje for the night, you’ll feel accomplished, awestruck, and ready for whatever tomorrow throws your way.

Hike: 10 km, 5-6hrs
Uphill: 1020m, Downhill: 1020m; Maximum altitude: 2056m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Vusanje
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 10: The most Beautiful Village in Albania

It’s a long day of hiking today en route to Prokletije National Park, with a mix of history and scenery as you learn more about Albania and take in the mountain views. 

As we re-enter Albania from Montenegro, we’re further reminded of Albania’s past. Would you believe that during Enver Hoxha’s communist reign, he forbade travel and outlawed private property? You’ll see evidence of his iron-fisted rule as we pass by a border military post. Take the time here to ask your local guide more about Albania; you’ll be engrossed by his storytelling! 

There’s quite a challenging section that runs along the craggiest part of the Prokletje/Bjeshkёt e Namuna/Alpet Shqipёtare Mountains that you’ll need to concentrate for, but you can take a breather with a picnic lunch in an alpine meadow – filled with colourful wildflowers and butterflies flying overhead. It’s like something out of a dream!

You’ll spend tonight in Theth – one of the prettiest villages in Albania. 

Hike: 17.8 km, 6-7hrs
Uphill: 788m, Downhill: 1231m; Maximum altitude: 1759m
Drive: 40 minutes
Accommodation: Guesthouse Rupa
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 11: Rest day in Thethi National Park

With 92 hiking kilometres already behind you, you’ve well and truly earned yourself a rest day today, before finishing off the trek tomorrow. The morning gets off to the same start as the previous days, with a cup of hot mountain tea and a hearty breakfast. Today is a day for a gentle walk and some exploration in Thethi National Park, with a visit to the remote, virtually untouched village of Theth and its medieval legacy.

Accommodation: Guesthouse Rupa
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 12: Valbona Pass

Are we somehow in Switzerland?! We couldn’t blame you for thinking this as you hike your way through Valbona Valley National Park – nicknamed the ‘Albanian Alps’ – and for good reason. You’ll find yourself in a surreal world, with ragged, snow-covered mountain peaks surrounding you on all sides in what will be your most scenic climb so far. 

Today’s trail takes you through various landscapes from beech forests to green meadows to rocky mountain pathways; you may even come across a shepherd with his flock! Although the hike isn’t particularly difficult, it is mostly uphill, especially in the beginning, but after several hours of steep ascent, you’ll have the chance to pause and reflect on your experience over a hot cup of tea at Zefi’s mountain hut. 

Climbing another 45 minutes uphill to the summit, lunch is served with a side of epic views over the Valley of Valbona and Theth. Take your time here, breathe in the clean alpine air and really soak up the feeling of what brought you here in the first place… that feeling of being like a tiny dot on the planet, the kind you only ever experience in remote nature, miles from the reality of back home.

After lunch and carefully descending down the valley, you have an option if you don’t wish to continue walking the dried riverbed path – your group driver can meet you here and drive you the rest of the way. 

Tonight you’ll get to lay your head on a comfortable hotel pillow as we spend the night in Valbona National Park. Remember, you’re still in the wilderness, but tonight you have access to more modern amenities.

Pat yourself on the back as you’ve come to the end of the trek, or celebrate with your favourite tipple over dinner!

Hike: 14 km, 7-8hrs
Uphill: 1068m, Downhill: 790m; Maximum altitude: 1734m
Drive: 40 Minutes
Accommodation: Guesthouse Kol Gjoni
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 13: Valbona Valley & Komani Lake

This morning the group waves goodbye to Valbona Valley, ahead of a scenic ferry ride across Lake Koman into the city of Shkoder. Take in the bright blue waters and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like golden jackals, red foxes, European badgers, Eurasian otters and more. 

You’ll arrive in Shkoder in the afternoon, one of the oldest cities in Albania, where you’ll have ample time to dive deep into the city’s fascinating history and culture with a local guide. Like, did you know that Shkodra is the centre of Catholicism in Albania and, as such, is home to many beautiful churches, such as St Stephens Cathedral? Other worthy attractions in this ancient city are Rozafa Castle and the lake of Shkodra – you should get to see both today; if not, we’ll get to them tomorrow!  

Accommodation: Hotel Consul (or similar)
Drive: 3 hrs
Included: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 14: Explore Shkoder

It’s a later start today for exploring the artsy metropolis of Shkoder – the traditional capital of northern Albania. So, after a leisurely breakfast you’ll head back out to explore the parts of Shkoder that you didn’t get to see yesterday. 

Before the day’s out, you’ll understand this multicultural city much better! Shkoder is rich in culture thanks to Roman, Venetian and Ottoman influences. And you’ll see this medley of culture in the city’s historic buildings.

If you’re up for it, you can spend the afternoon kayaking on the gorgeous Shkodra Lake. 

Drive: 3 hrs
Accommodation: Hotel Consul (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner

DAY 15: Traditional food experience in Tirana

“It’s your last full day in Albania, and it’s set to be a memorable one, packed with history, culture, and a touch of culinary delight. Get ready for a fantastic city tour through Tirana, followed by a farewell dinner that will leave you savouring the flavours of Albania long after you’ve left.

Start your day with a ride from Shkoder through impressive landscapes. After this, you’ll dive into the heart of Tirana. Explore its bustling streets, discover its impressive history, and meet wonderful locals.
As the day winds down, gather for a farewell dinner, cherishing the memories made and the beautiful city you’ve explored. Raise a glass to an unforgettable journey through the Balkans!”

Drive: 2 Hours
Accommodation: Hotel Oxford (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner

DAY 16: Farewell, friends

And that’s a wrap, as they say. What a tick off your bucket list! You’ve trekked well over 100 km across a mountain range spanning three national borders, experienced scenery plucked out of a fairytale, been introduced to the region’s history, stayed with locals in their homes and eaten the best of Balkan foods. You will have so many epic stories to tell your friends and family back home; we’re sure of it! 

Before your airport transfer, be sure to exchange details with your new hiking buddies so that you can share your awesome photos with another! 

Included: Breakfast

Take a look at the clip below to give yourself a feel for the Peaks of the Balkans hiking terrain.