PEAKS OF THE BALKANS
Three countries, Iconic landscapes
5-8 Guests
Authentic Balkan culture
Local cuisine and hospitality
October 5-11, 2025
7 Days
Meeting Point: Tirana Airport, 9am
End Point: Tirana, approx. 17pm
CHF 1790.-
Services Included in the Price:
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Guided hikes led by an experienced hiking guide.
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Round-trip bus transportation from Tirana.
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Accommodations as outlined in the program (6 nights).
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Meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and complimentary tea and coffee.
Not Included in the Price:
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Flights to and from Albania (support for flight booking is available upon request).
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Accident insurance is the responsibility of the participants.
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Personal snacks (to be purchased in Plav at the latest).
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Meals in Restaurants (like Plav and Shkodër)
Five consecutive days of trekking, up to 16.5 km/day and a maximum of 1000m ascent per day. Surefootedness, and carrying a maximum 15kg backpack are vital. A positive attitude is essential in tough conditions.
Uncover the Balkans' Wild Frontier
Welcome to the Peaks of the Balkans! We’re excited to guide you through this region, where three countries meet amid pristine lakes, dense forests, and rugged paths. Here, where cultures blend and wild landscapes stretch for miles, we’ll explore hidden valleys and cross scenic borders. With a well-paced route, each day’s trek reveals the authentic beauty of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro at a comfortable pace.
Day 1
Upon arriving at Tirana airport, we’ll meet the group and kick off our Balkan adventure. Our first stop is the historic Rozafa Castle in Shkodër, where we’ll explore its ancient walls and enjoy stunning views over the city and surrounding landscapes. After taking in the sights, we’ll head to a local restaurant for a delicious lunch in Shkodër. Following lunch, we’ll continue our journey to Plav, about 2.5 hours away, passing through Montenegro’s rural landscapes. Upon arrival, there’s plenty of time to explore the town at your own pace.
Day 2
Today marks the first stage of our trek, starting just outside Plav. We gradually ascend through dense beech forests along the mountain ridge. As we gain altitude, the landscape shifts, with towering conifers like pines and firs becoming more prominent at 2000 meters. At the summit, we’re rewarded with a panoramic view of the vast, forest-covered hills — a true embodiment of "Montenegro," the Land of Black Mountains. In the afternoon, we arrive at a tranquil mountain lake, perfect for a refreshing break and swim before we leisurely descend to Babino Polje.
Approx. 16.5 km with 1000m ascent and 500m descent
Day 3 After a hearty breakfast, we set off to climb the ridge that separates Montenegro from Kosovo. With each step, breathtaking mountain ranges unfold around us. At the highest point of the pass, we turn south and follow the border toward Albania. The views are nothing short of spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of all three countries. Before reaching the Albanian border, we descend to a charming mountain village in Kosovo for the night. The accommodation is simple but authentic — prepare for a modest yet welcoming stay, with warm hospitality from the local community. Approx. 11 km with 940m ascent and 630m descent For those feeling adventurous, an optional detour to Marijash / Bogdash, the highest peak of our tour, offers an additional 4 km and 270 meters of ascent. Day 4 We start the day in Bjeshkët e Belegut and slowly make our way back onto the ridge, following it as it leads us higher. After one final climb, we reach the tri-border point of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro at 2366 meters — an unforgettable moment! The descent takes us to the peaceful high valley of Dobërdol, where we’re greeted by the warm hospitality of local farmers. The accommodation is simple but authentic — prepare for a modest yet charming night. Approx. 10 km with 740m ascent and 850m descent Day 5 The day begins in the picturesque high valley of Dobërdol, an isolated spot surrounded by rural farms. Our route winds along the mountainsides, revealing breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding peaks and mystical conifer forests. After a gentle ascent, we reach the Qafa e Aljucit Pass, where we enjoy a well-deserved break. Refreshed, we continue through the impressive mountain scenery until we finally reach the idyllic high valley of Cerem. Here, we unwind in a charming chalet, savoring the views of the valley while traditional Albanian cuisine treats us with its authentic flavors and hearty dishes. Approx. 15 km with 400m ascent and 800m descent Day 6 It’ll be hard to leave this beautiful spot. A taxi takes us from the secluded valley to the impressive Valbona Valley, where our final stage begins. The path leads us through dense conifer forests and striking limestone formations up to the Valbona Pass. At the top, a vast panorama awaits, making all the effort more than worth it. After a well-deserved break on a nearby peak, we start our descent into the valley. Accompanied by beech forests and small snack bars along the way, we descend into the picturesque mountain village of Theth. Here, in this stunning mountain setting, we’ve truly earned a well-deserved rest. Approx. 14 km with 800m ascent and 1060m descent Day 7 To conclude our journey, we explore the charming corners of the village on foot before heading to one of the region’s highlights — the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter). This crystal-clear spring, just about an hour’s walk away, invites us to take a refreshing dip in its turquoise waters. After this natural experience, we travel to Shkodra around noon. Upon arrival, we enjoy one last traditional meal together, reflecting on the past days’ adventures, before taking some time to explore more of what Shkodra has to offer. Finally, the shuttle will take us back to Tirana, where our journey concludes.
Requirements
You'll need recent hiking experience, including a multi-day hike (15 km/day), and should test your gear prior to the trekking. Prepare for unpredictable weather, with sun, wind, fog, rain, or cold possible. Expect around 6 hours of walking per day on trails ranging T1-T3, with brief challenging sections.
Accommodation
We’ll stay in lodges with rooms for two, as well as mountain huts. The mountain huts offer a modest yet authentic experience, with dormitory-style rooms, basic toilets, and showers.
Meals
Most meals will be prepared by locals. Dinner and breakfast are included with your accommodation. On departure, you'll receive a packed lunch for the day. Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions in advance so we can accommodate your needs. Meals not included are at the restaurant in Shkoder, Plav on Day 1, and the restaurant on the way back to Tirana on the last day.
Meeting Point
We’ll meet at Tirana Airport for group introductions.
Risks
Emergency exits are limited, and response times may be delayed. Boat/bus schedules depend on weather, so please allow flexibility for return flights. Participants are responsible for their own health and fitness, and a signed waiver is required.