Peaks of the Balkans Trek: Albania–Montenegro–Kosovo Hiking Adventure
Description
Welcome to an unforgettable 192km journey through the beautiful mountains of the Balkans.
The Peaks of the Balkans Trail crosses three countries—Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. Follow ancient shepherd paths that wind over rugged mountain passes and descend into glacial valleys alive with wildflowers.
Along the way, you’ll wander through welcoming local villages, where life still moves at the rhythm of the seasons.It’s common to encounter flocks of sheep grazing on remote hillsides and to feel a deep sense of connection to the land’s enduring spirit.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1: Tirana → Theth
- Travel by bus or minivan (4h45–5h, often via Shkodër).
- Stay overnight in a guesthouse in Theth.
- Meals: Lunch and dinner.
- Note: Start early; late arrivals are rare unless arranged.
Day 2: Theth → Valbona Pass → Valbona
- Hike about 14 km, 6–7 hours, moderate difficulty.
- Stay in a guesthouse in Valbona.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Note: Route usually done from Valbona to Theth, but both ways work.
Day 3: Valbona → Presllopi Pass → Çerem
- Hike 14–15 km, 7–9 hours, moderate to hard.
- Stay in a guesthouse in Çerem.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Note: Border permit needed (crossing Montenegro briefly).
Day 4: Çerem → Dobërdol
- Hike about 16 km, 6–7 hours.
- Stay in a hut at Dobërdol (open June–September).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Note: Rustic conditions.
Day 5: Dobërdol → Babino Polje → Vuthaj
- Hike 13 km to Babino Polje (6–7 hours).
- Transfer by taxi or pre-booked ride (~1 hour) to Vuthaj.
- Stay in a guesthouse in Vuthaj.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Note: Gusinje nearby for services.
Day 6: Vuthaj → Grbaja Valley Loop → Vuthaj
- Short transfer (~20 min) to Grbaja Valley.
- Hike 10–12 km loop, 4–6 hours, moderate.
- Return to guesthouse in Vuthaj.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 7: Vuthaj → Peja Pass → Theth
- Hike 21 km, 7–8 hours.
- Stay in guesthouse in Theth.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Note: Early start recommended; border permit needed.
Day 8: Theth → Blue Eye → Shkodër
- Hike 19–21 km loop, 5–6 hours. Optional 4x4 transfer to shorten hike.
- Transfer (~2.5 hours) by minibus to Shkodër.
- Stay in hotel in Shkodër.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 9: Shkodër → Tirana
- Transfer by bus or minivan (~2 hours).
- No hiking.
- Plan airport transfer or relax in Tirana.
Required Equipment
- 35–40L daypack with rain cover
- Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
- Trekking poles
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Light fleece or insulation layer
- 2 moisture-wicking shirts and 2 pairs of hiking socks
- Sun hat, warm hat, buff, and thin gloves
- 2 liters of water capacity plus water filter or purification tablets
- Headlamp
- Passport and printed border permits
- Small first-aid and blister kit
- Power bank and plug adapter
- Sleeping bag liner
- Cash (EUR and lek) for guesthouses
- Microspikes (if hiking early or late season when there’s snow on Valbona Pass)
Notes
- Weather: Weather can change quickly—expect cold, rain, or fog even in summer.
- Trail Markings: Trails are mostly marked but can be hard to follow in fog or overgrown areas. Always carry a GPS and map.
- Border Crossings: You’ll cross borders between Albania and Montenegro three times. Get permits beforehand and carry them.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses and huts are basic but cozy, with local food. Mountain huts like Dobërdol have limited facilities (shared rooms, outdoor toilets, no Wi-Fi).
- Season: Best time to hike is late June to mid-September; some areas close outside this time due to snow.
- Water: Springs are common but not always marked. Refill water at guesthouses and carry a filter or purification tablets.
- Wildlife: You may see shepherd dogs, livestock, bears, or wolves. Follow local advice when near animals.
Tour Details
Route Map
Leave No Trace
Minimize impact: pack out all trash and avoid altering natural features.
Stay on trail
Stay on marked paths, preserve vegetation.
Respect nature
Pack out your litter, leave no trace.