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: Breakfast, Lunch and 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: Hotel Kaqinari (or similar)
Included: Breakfast 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, the UNESCO-listed Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš, 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. We’ll visit a few wineries here before heading over to a wine-making monastery in Hoqa e Vjeter. 

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: Hotel Kaqinari (or similar)
Included: Breakfast and Dinner

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 Ariu
Included: Breakfast and Dinner

DAY 5: Summit of Hajla peak 2,403m

Today may be one of the most exciting days yet! While absorbing the rugged mountain scenery as you trek, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like lynx, wolf, deer and golden eagles. Plus, you’ll get to see five different countries from the epic viewpoint at the peak of Hajla. You may even feel that you’re dreaming as you soak in the sights of Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia, Serbia and North Macedonia from the top. 

Day 5 is just a taster of what’s to come on the Peaks of the Balkans trek!

Much of the trail follows along shepherd paths, and today you’ll be hiking for between 7 and 8 hours, a whopping 15.8 km total. Today’s hike is rated as moderate because of the steep downhill and uphill sections, so come prepared for a workout! But we promise that the scenery is worth the hard slog; the highlights of today’s trail include Guri Kuq, the highest peak in the Rugova Mountains, and a stunning meadow near the beginning with an outlook to Reka e Allagёs and the surrounding mountains! You may not be familiar with the name, but you’ll certainly be happy you came to see it. 

And the rest… yep, you guessed it, we’ll keep it as a surprise, then end the day in the lovely village of Drelaj. You’ll spend the night in another cozy, locally-owned guesthouse.

Hike: 15.8 km, 7-8hrs
Uphill: 1020m, Downhill: 1320m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Shqiponja
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 6: Babino Polje & Glacial Lakes

An early breakfast before the group is dropped off at the starting point for today’s hike along the iconic Shkodra Pass (aka. Lugu i Shkodrёs) into Montenegro – an ancient pathway that’s aptly named because it connects to the culturally rich city of Shkodra in Northern Albania. Today’s hike is long – but a jaw-dropper; honestly, you’ll find yourself mouthing “wow” every couple of minutes as you take in glacial lakes and narrow mountain passes. Be sure to have your camera at hand; believe us, you’ll want to snap some photos today!

The trail is challenging though, with several uphill and downhill sections. And you’re now at 2,265 metres above sea level, so you’ll notice the air feels thinner!

The hike ends in a hidden gem in Montenegro, the tiny village of Babino Polje, which is dwarfed by the vine-covered hills that surround it. With a population of under 300 people, tonight you’ll get an insight into the authentic Montenegrin lifestyle as you spend the night at a locally-run guesthouse. 

Hike: 15.8 km, 7-8hrs
Uphill: 1140m, Downhill: 1050m; Maximum altitude: 2265m
Accommodation: Eco Mountaineering HRID
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 7: Doberdol Pasture via the Border Point

By now, your muscles are probably starting to ache, so we’re going to treat you to an easy morning. After breakfast, plunge into lake Hrid Jezero, hidden in the middle of a pine forest, for a refreshing swim. When you’re dry, we’ll take a leisurely hike to a local favourite vantage point for a picnic lunch with another world-class view.

Now that everyone’s bellies are happy, we’ll start the hike into Doberdol pasture, crossing the border between Montenegro and Albania on the way. If time allows, we’ll also take a short detour to the three-border point to see Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro from high above. From this viewpoint, it’s downhill all the way to Doberdol, an alpine pasture that’s home to hundreds of sheep, cows, and horses. It’s all looking very The Sound of Music-esque now! 

Hike: 13.8 km, 7-8hrs
Uphill: 820m, Downhill: 950m; Maximum altitude: 2236m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Bashkimi
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 8: Balqin Hamlet & Cerem Village

There’s been a lot happening so far on this trip, so we’ll take it easy this morning with a slow-paced hike. Today is important because you’ll briefly cross the border into Albania and get a glimpse into Albania’s complex history. We’ll pass by the ruins of an old military border post, where you’ll see bunkers. There are thousands of these bunkers dotted throughout the country, ordered to be built during the Cold War by dictator Enver Hoxha who feared an invasion from pretty much everyone, from Greece to neighbouring ex-Yugoslavia! It’s fascinating to see these bubble-shaped structures up close. 

After the history lesson, it’s time for lunch at a tiny shepherd’s hut. Here, Qamile, the owner, will prepare a hearty lunch – good fuel for the road ahead. Take this opportunity to ask Qamile about his life as a nomadic shepherd.

The day comes to a close with an easy hike into Cerem village via a scenic trail through a beech forest. 

Hike: 15.8 km, 6-7hrs
Uphill: 540m, Downhill: 1025m; Maximum altitude: 1920m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Kujtim Gocaj
Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

DAY 9: The Hidden Village of Vusanje

We’re around the halfway point of the trek now, and it’s time for a change of landscape as you begin the hike into Vusanje village back in Montenegro. Passing by contrasting scenes of dense beech forest that opens out to a meadow – the views here are like something you’d see in a travel magazine! So, again, have your camera at the ready.

The final section of the trail today is a steep climb to the summit of Bori, from where you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view of the gigantic Accursed mountain range. Be prepared for a steep descent into Vusanje village, your knees may feel the strain, but you can take your mind off it with some more pretty forest and meadow scenery. 

Hike: 13 km, 6-7hrs
Uphill: 990m, Downhill: 964m; Maximum altitude: 1900m
Accommodation: Guesthouse Vuçetaj
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 Coloseo (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 Coloseo (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner

DAY 15: Traditional food experience in Tirana

It’s your last full day in the Balkans, and it’s a day of delicious food and goodbyes. So, if you love good food (who doesn’t?!), you’ll really enjoy today as we experience the best of Albanian cuisine on a food tour through Tirana – the country’s bustling and vibrant capital. 

Taste ‘Tave Kosi,’ the most famous Albanian dish, a sort of lamb bake with rice, yogurt, and eggs that’s a favourite of Ismail Qemali, the country’s first Prime Minister! Or pie fans will surely love the next item on today’s menu – ‘Lakror,’ a pastry stuffed with vegetables and meat! You’ll also get the chance to make ‘byrek’, a flaky pastry filled with cheese – this Albanian recipe is the perfect ‘souvenir’ to take home with you as a memory your trip! 

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.