Peaks of the Balkans - Ten days, Three countries
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a thrilling 10-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty. Traverse through picturesque villages, hike along ancient mule tracks, and explore untouched valleys. Discover the unique architecture of the Kulla e Ngujimit, hike through the most southern glacier in the northern hemisphere, and marvel at the stunning views from the highest peaks of the Accursed Mountains. Experience the rich biodiversity of the region, from the oldest woodlands in the world to glacial lakes home to rare species. This tour is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and nature, designed to leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences.
Included
- Border pemits
- Peaks of the Balkans map
- Entrance fee for the National Parks
10 nights in a hotel, guesthouse, or mountain hut. In the mountains, the rooms are shared
The accommodation is in a simple homestay/guesthouse, or lodge style with simple bathroom facilities. Rooms are likely to accommodate between two and five people per room and it may be necessary for male and female groups to share the room, unless noted otherwise on your request, but this is not guaranteed in each guesthouse. It always depends on availability of rooms.
Sheets and blankets, towels, shampoo, warm water, and other basic services are provided, but it’s recommended to pack a travel towel and sleep sack just in case.
Private rooms at additional cost; limited availability.
2nd to 9th day three meals; 10th day breakfast and lunch packet
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Balkan Natural Adventure will provide an assistant guide if the group is larger than eight people (a maximum of 12 people in a group). This will make sure the tour accommodates different walking speeds. All guides are English-speaking!
Transfers during the tour will be private for the group. The private transfer is done by either a regular car or 4x4, depending on the road conditions.
Map
Attractions
Valbona Valley National Park
Komani LakeDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Shkoder
- Shkodër - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Shkoder, a charming city in Northern Albania. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and meet your guide and fellow travelers for a briefing about the exciting journey ahead. Airport transfers can be arranged upon request.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploration of Theth
- Theth
- Shkodër
- More
Today, we journey to the picturesque village of Theth, nestled in the heart of Northern Albania. Immerse yourself in the village's rich history as you explore ancient buildings and the unique Kulla e Ngujimit. Enjoy a leisurely walk towards the waterfalls and natural 'bath-tubs' of the Shala river, soaking in the village's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Day 3 – Day 3: Hike from Theth to Valbona
Day 3: Hike from Theth to Valbona
- Valbona Valley National Park
- More
Embark on a thrilling hike from Theth to Valbona, traversing the iconic Valbona Pass. This route, an ancient mule track, offers stunning views of the valleys and the southernmost glacier in the northern hemisphere. Experience the cultural diversity of Albania as you transition from the Catholic valley of Shala to the Muslim valley of Valbona.
Day 4 – Day 4: Hike from Valbona to Cerem via Prosllopi Pass
Day 4: Hike from Valbona to Cerem via Prosllopi Pass
- Komani Lake
- More
Today's journey takes us from Valbona to Cerem via the spectacular Prosllopi Pass. This trail, the longest of the hike, offers stunning views of the Montenegrin border and the country's highest peak, Kollata e Keqe. Experience the thrill of hiking through the steep rocky mountains of Kollata, a popular spot for climbers.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploration of Gashi Valley
Day 5: Exploration of Gashi Valley
- Valbona Valley National Park
- More
Today, we explore the lush greenery of the Gashi Valley. This trail is dominated by the abundant flora of the region and the oldest woodlands in the world. Enjoy the unique charm of makeshift cafes under a canopy of trees and interact with local villagers offering their natural produce. This part of the mountains, home to the glacial lakes of Sulbica plateau, is a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site.
Day 6 – Day 6: Hike to the Accursed Mountains
Day 6: Hike to the Accursed Mountains
Today's adventure takes us to the highest mountain of Kosovo and the second highest of the Accursed Mountains. The route to the summit from Doberdol is a straightforward hike through lakes, small streams, and crests with open views of the mountains. Discover the glacial lakes that are home to the Triton salamander, a testament to the purity of the water.
Day 7 – Day 7: Hike to Tromedja and Peja
Day 7: Hike to Tromedja and Peja
Today, we hike between two shepherds' villages in two different countries, sharing the same culture and language. We'll climb the 2366m Tromedja (Three Border peak) and enjoy spectacular views from the narrow pass on the border with Montenegro. We'll end the day in Peja, the capital of the Accursed Mountains.
Day 8 – Day 8: Hike through the Accursed Mountain trails
Day 8: Hike through the Accursed Mountain trails
Embark on an intense 15.8km hike through some of the least trodden Accursed Mountain trails in the Kosovo section. This part of the mountain is expected to be 'tourist-free', offering some of the region's most breathtaking views, passing a glacial lake and water sources.
Day 9 – Day 9: Exploration of Gerbaja
Day 9: Exploration of Gerbaja
Today, we venture into Gerbaja, situated in Montenegro. Once considered the most beautiful valley in Tito's Yugoslavia, it's a detour from the classic Peaks of the Balkans. The hike will start with a climb in Taljanka peak, a green heaven with a view on Karanfil, a rough rock massive.
Day 10 – Day 10: Hike from Vusanje to Theth and Transfer to Shkoder
- Shkodër
- Theth - Departure day
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- Komani Lake
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On the final day of our journey, we hike back to the historic Albanian village of Theth from Vusanje. The path passes along the craggiest part of the Accursed Mountains that was a forbidden zone during the Communist era. After a short rest, we'll be transferred back to our hotel in Shkoder, marking the end of our unforgettable journey.
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