Self-guided: Peaks of the Balkans Tour in 8 days

Your adventure begins in the city of Shkoder, from where you'll journey towards the Albanian Alps. As you traverse the rugged landscapes, you'll be captivated by the wild fields, rivers, and the serene Shkodra Lake. After a local transport ride, you'll start your hike towards the Blue Eye, a stunning natural attraction formed by the erosion of melting snow. Later, you'll visit the historical Old Church and Lock in Tower in Theth, where you'll spend the night in a traditional guesthouse.

Day two will see you trekking from Theth to Valbona, a journey that promises breathtaking views of the Theth and Valbona valleys. The trail, once an old mule path, will take you through impressive mountains and wild forests. The highlight of the day is the Valbona Pass, offering a spectacular view of the Balkan Peaks and the Accursed Mountains. After a day of intense hiking, you'll rest in a guesthouse in the village of Valbona.

On the third day, you'll hike from Valbona to Cerem, passing through forests and meadows. You'll have the option to hike to the highest peak of Montenegro, Zla Kolata peak. You'll also pass a mysterious cave with an extremely cold wind. The day ends in Cerem, a village high in the mountains, where you'll spend the night in a traditional shepherd's hut.

Day four will see you hiking from Cerem to Doberdol, following a mule track and crossing the border to Montenegro. You'll pass through pine forests and the only National Reserve in Albania, home to brown bears and lynxes. The day ends in Doberdol, a beautiful village where you'll spend the night in a shepherd's hut.

On the fifth day, you'll hike from Doberdol to Babino Polje, starting with a climb up Tromedja Mountain. This peak is unique as it allows you to stand in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo at the same time. The hike continues along the border between Kosovo and Montenegro, offering beautiful views of Bogicevica National Park. The day ends in the charming village of Babino Polje.

Day six will take you from Babino Polje to Plav, traversing pristine landscapes and untouched forests. The highlight of the trail is Lake Hrid, the most beautiful lake in all of Montenegro. After a day of hiking, you'll reach the town of Plav, nestled between the Prokletije Mountains.

On the seventh day, you'll hike from Plav to Vusanje, passing through dense forests and experiencing breathtaking transformations in the scenery as you ascend in elevation. The day ends in Vusanje, a quaint village nestled between mountains, where you'll spend the night.

On the final day, you'll hike from Vusanje to Theth, crossing the border back to Albania. You'll pass by the Arapi Peak, one of the highest peaks of the Balkans. After arriving in Theth, you'll be driven to Tirana, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through the Peaks of the Balkans.