Peaks of the Balkans - Hike Beyond Borders in Albania & Montenegro (8 day)

Welcome to the Balkans! Your adventure begins in either Tirana or Podgorica, from where you'll be transferred to your first accommodation in Shkodra. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore the town on your own. At 5 pm, join the group for an introductory meeting at the hotel, followed by a traditional dinner. Get a good night's sleep - the adventure begins early tomorrow!

Rise early for a scenic drive through the Drin Gorges to Koman Lake. Enjoy a boat ride on the picturesque reservoir, then continue by car to the highlands of Valbona National Park. Spend the afternoon exploring the park on a warm-up walk, with opportunities for swimming in a clear stream or secluded pond. End the day at a cozy guesthouse in upper Valbona, where a hearty home-cooked meal awaits.

After a short drive to Cerem, embark on a hike through the Eastern Alps, with stunning views of Mt. Kolata. Visit alpine pastures, meet local herdsmen, and immerse yourself in the seasonal lifestyle of the shepherds in the glacial-shaped valley of Doberdol. Spend the night in simple shepherd's huts, relinquishing comfort for a unique cultural experience.

Bid farewell to your hosts and climb to the top of Mt. Trekufiri, where you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Balkans borderlands. Follow the trail into Montenegro, visit the secluded Lake Hrid, and continue through a dense pine forest to the settlement of Babino Polje. A short transfer takes you to your guesthouse in Vusanje, where you can admire the majestic view of Arapi.

Start the day with a short transfer to the awe-inspiring Grbaja Valley. Embark on a challenging hike to the double peak of Popadija and Taljanka, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Kelmend region of Albania. After the hike, celebrate your accomplishment at a beer garden in the valley before returning to your guesthouse in Vusanje.

Travel up the Ropojana Valley and cross the border into Albania. Follow the mountain-framed corridor into the heart of the Albanian Alps and the Thethi National Park. Depending on the conditions, you may have the opportunity to climb Mt. Arapi. End the day with a steep descent to a local watering hole, followed by a short ride to your guesthouse in the lively village.

Spend the day exploring Theth, visiting the iconic church and the lock-in tower. Follow water channels to the famed Grunas Waterfall, then descend to the hamlet of Nderlysa for lunch. Continue the hike to the colorful karst spring known as the 'Blue Eye', or enjoy a leisurely afternoon swimming at the glacier-shaped rock formations. In the late afternoon, travel back to Shkodra for a celebratory dinner.

Your Balkans adventure comes to an end today. Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity to explore the lively streets of Shkodra, visit nearby beaches, or experience the modern side of Albania in the capital, Tirana. Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey, and we hope to see you again soon!