Peaks of the Balkans Trail (Self Guided)

Duration: 10 days
Trails: T3 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km per day
Ascent per day: 500 - 1000 m ascent per day
> Visit the famous bazaar in Gjakova
> Conquer the most famous peaks of the Balkans
> Discover the 'Blue Eye of Theth'
> Visit Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo in one trek!

During this amazing experience, you will trek by yourself to experience the stunning natural beauties of this region. The Peaks of the Balkans Trail takes you through a remote and unspoiled mountain region in the Western Balkans. It is a collection of beautiful mountains shared by Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro and is connected by a circular route. Take on the challenge on your own and enjoy the amazing views! In this adventure you explore some of the most beautiful mountain peaks in the world!

During this trek you'll pass Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro as you trek for 125km in total. You will cover a large part of the Peaks of the Balkans Trail, which has a length of 192km. Cross Border Permits will be fixed for you and you will have the chance to get to know the local culture while you are staying in Guesthouses and Shephard's huts. You will be picked up from Tirana (Albania) and driven to the starting point in Tamarë. In the upcoming days you can enjoy great views from the Valbona Pass (1795m) or Talijanka Peak (2057m). Climbing the roof of Kosovo; Gjeravica (2656m) is the highest in the country. Encounter many picturesque mountain villages where time seems to have stood still. Until 20 years ago, the region was virtually inaccessible to visitors, which makes it an authentic cultural experience today. Above all, be surprised, as this trek has much more to offer!

Do you prefer to do this trek accompanied by a guide? Then you should go here!

Itinerary

Day
1

Tirana (Albania) – Shkoder – Tamarë – Lëpushë

Duration: 03:00 h
Distance: 3.5 km
Ascent: 868 m
Your tour starts very early in the morning from Tirana at 6:00 am. You will drive towards Tamarë in North Albania and pass the city of Shkoder. From Tamarë, you will begin your hiking adventure of the Peaks of the Balkans. The Peaks of the Balkans are part of the Dinaric Alps that start all the way in Slovenia and end in the southeast of Albania. The Albanian Alps are even the highest section of the Dinaric Alps. You will get to explore them in the days to come. Later that day, you will arrive in the small village of Lëpushë, known for its stunning nature and for us a great resting point after an exciting first day. The name Lëpushë refers to the yellow flower that you can find there in the spring season. Before ending this day, you will have some time left to walk and explore the area, in the far-reaching meadow landscapes. In the North of Albania, they are known for many delicious bio-dishes with products from the region. Their culinary is unique, tasty and can only be found in these areas. You will have the chance to try these during the tour. Overnight in a guest house in Lëpushë.

Lëpushë

Info
Lëpushë
Day
2

Lëpushë – Maja e Berizhdolit – Lëpushë

Duration: 04:54 h
Distance: 11.4 km
Ascent: 680 m
Descent: 680 m
Today you will hike to Maja e Berizhdolit (1977 meters above sea level) in the Albanian Alps, also called the Accursed Mountains. This is a beautiful trek that passes water springs and has a rewarding view from the top. The spectacular rocky formation of mountains is covered in snow on one side while the other side has almost no vegetation. It will be a maximum hike of 6 hours, including breaks surrounded by these mountains. After soaking in the spectacular sight, you will head back to Lëpushë. Overnight in a guest house in Lëpushë.

Lëpushë

Info
Lëpushë
Day
3

Lëpushë – Talijanka peak – Vuthaj (Montenegro)

Duration: 08:51 h
Distance: 17.2 km
Ascent: 1340 m
Descent: 1610 m
Highest Point: 2057 m
Your destination for today is Vuthaj, but first you will hike to the Talijanka peak. Here you will cross the border from Albania to Montenegro. Mount Talijanka itself is located in Grbaje Valley in Montenegro. This valley is U-shaped and surrounded by the grey sharp mountain peaks. The Talijanka peak is considered to be one of the most beautiful of the Balkan Peaks. The view of dramatic grey extraordinary-shaped mountains is a sight that even the professional hiker will be amazed by. From this peak, you can also see Lake Plav in Montenegro. You will take a minivan for the last 40 minutes to Vuthaj in Montenegro. In Vuthaj you will have the opportunity to visit the Ali Pasha springs, which is about a 40 – minute walk from the guest house, or you can reminisce on the spectacular views you have seen today. Overnight in a guest house in Vuthaj.

Vuthaj

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Vuthaj
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Included

  • Transfers

    All necessary transfers (bus, taxi, private transport, etc.) as described in the itinerary are included.

  • Full travel guide

    We will send you on your way with a digital travel guide that includes a route description for this trek, interactive hiking maps, and the most important information applicable to your trek

  • Cross Border Permits

    Permits to cross the various borders are included and prepared by our local partner Choose Balkans.

  • Accommodation on the Peaks of the Balkan Trail

    You will be staying 6 nights in Guesthouses, 2 nights in a Shepherd's Hut (less comfortable, but great hospatility), and 1 night in a hotel. * Prices are calculated on triple or quadruples room occupancy. The Triple/Quadruple room occupancy means you might share the room with other travelers.

  • Luggage transport (optional)

    Luggage transport can be booked upon request. Ask our Trekking Experts about the possibilities.

  • Breakfast

    Breakfasts are included in the price of the trek. They will be provided at the accommodation where you spent the night before.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    This trip does not include costs for transportation (flights, bus travel, etc.) to your destination.

  • Lunch and dinner

    The meals during the trek are not included in the final price, except for breakfast.

  • Travel Insurance

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. It is important that your travel insurance also covers adventures at a high altitude. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.

  • Accommodation before and after the trek

    Before and after the trek you have to take care of your own accommodation.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks at the bar and other similar expenses are your own responsibility.

FAQ

  • Where is the Peaks of the Balkans Trail?

  • What Is the Best Season for the Peaks of the Balkans Trail?

  • Cross Border Permits on the Peaks of the Balkans

How to Book

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  • Cancellation policy

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Contact our Trekking Expert
Jan Bakker
Jan Bakker
This trek is operated by our partner
Choose Balkans

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