Welcome to the Balkans
Overview
Embark on a one-of-a-kind transnational hike through the Balkans, traversing Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. This adventure combines rugged trails, pristine alpine landscapes, and cultural exploration. Journey through breathtaking glacial lakes, ancient forests, and iconic peaks such as Gjeravica and Kollata e Keqe.
Along the way, discover the unique charm of each country, with hearty local meals, traditional guesthouses, and stories of Balkan history. This is more than a hike—it’s a cultural and natural odyssey across borders.
- Transnational hike spanning Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo
- Summit two of the region's highest peaks: Gjeravica and Kollata e Keqe
- Explore Lake Koman’s fjords and swim in glacial waters
- Visit Theth’s Blue Eye and the stunning Karanfili Massif
- Cross remote borders, blending nature and culture at every step
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Shkodra
Arrive in Tirana and transfer to the historic town of Shkodra. Explore its charming Old Boulevard and rest up in a traditional guesthouse.
- Day 2: Lake Koman & Valbona Valley
Sail through the fjord-like Lake Koman before heading to the breathtaking Valbona Valley. Enjoy a short hike to acclimatize to the Accursed Mountains.
- Day 3: Valbona to Cerem
Begin your trek across Albania’s rugged trails, passing the Presllopi Pass and sampling local treats. Weather permitting, summit Kollata e Keqe, Montenegro’s highest peak.
- Day 4: Cerem to Doberdol
Hike through dense forests and cross briefly into Montenegro before arriving at Doberdol, a remote alpine settlement on the Albanian border.
- Day 5: Summit Gjeravica & Enter Kosovo
Cross into Kosovo and ascend Gjeravica (2656m), the country’s highest peak. Swim in glacial lakes and end the day at a cozy guesthouse.
- Day 6: Three Border Point & Milishevc
Visit the Three Border Peak, where Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo converge. Follow mountain ridges into the town of Milishevc.
- Day 7: Milishevc to Babino Polje
Hike through flower-filled meadows and woodlands, crossing from Kosovo to Montenegro. Spend the night in the tranquil village of Babino Polje.
- Day 8: Grebaje Valley & Karanfili Massif
Climb peaks in the Grebaje Valley, including Talijanka and Popadija, with striking views of the Karanfili Massif, known as the "Dolomites of the Balkans."
- Day 9: Cross to Theth
Trek across challenging terrain back into Albania, visiting the glacial lakes of Jezerca and exploring the remote village of Theth.
- Day 10: Thethi National Park & Tirana
Visit Theth’s iconic Blue Eye, a natural spring surrounded by vibrant colours. Return to Tirana for your departure.
What's Included?
- Guide: 10 days local guide (English speaking)
- Accommodation: (2 nights on hotels, 7 nights in shared rooms at guesthouses)
- Meals: All the meals during the tour (Breakfast, Picnic lunch and Dinner)
- Transfers: Airport transfers and other transport required by the itinerary
- Luggage transfers between guest houses
- Entrance fees: All National Park entrance and Border Permits
Not Included:
- Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Additional beverages and soft drinks
- Tips for guide and support team
Gear List
Required
- Good Hiking shoes
- Day pack (20L – 35L)
- T-shirts
- Sunhat, Sunglasses, Sun cream
- Ear Plugs
- Fleece Hat
- Rain jacket
- Warm fleece jacket or jumper
- Rain pants
- Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
- Trekking trousers
- Anti-bacterial hand gel
- Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
- 2 x 1-liter water bottle
- Insect spray
- Water purification tablets
Optional
- Flashlight or Headlamp
- Shorts
- Trekking poles
- Trainers or sandals
- Bandana
- Liner Socks (Synthetic)
- Shoes for Travel and Free Time
- Casual Clothing for Travel and Town Wear (Lightweight, Easily Washable)
- Spare laces
- Luggage Tags and Locks
- Pen-knife and whistle
- Camera and Accessories
- Reading and Writing Materials
Tour Details
Duration: 10 days 9 nights
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Group Size: 12 (max) 6 (min)
Dates:
19 - 28th August 2025
Price:
From: £1,499 pp.