Peaks of the Balkans Trail (Self Guided)

From Vuthaj, head towards Theth and cross the border back into Albania. During this trek, we will visit a hidden water place that is difficult to find on your own if you don't know the exact location.

You will also pass one of the highest peaks in the Balkans, the Arapi Peak (2,217m above sea level), and Jezerca Peak (2,694m above sea level). In the Albanian Alps, you will encounter several huts that show a way of life far from civilization. In Theth, visit the old church and the "lock-in" tower (a symbol of Theth). The stories behind these buildings span centuries of history. Overnight in a guesthouse in Theth.

A famous saying in Albania is "He who has seen Theth has a reason to live" (Gjergj Fishta), and today you will see another beautiful phenomenon that supports this saying. Your walk through Theth will continue to the natural wonder known as the "Blue Eye of Theth". The walk from the village takes about 3 hours one way, with a distance of 18 km both ways and a climb of about 700 m. (If you choose to book local transport from Theth village to Nderlysaj, where the trek starts, the trek takes about 1 hour each way. The cost of local transport is between 5-7 Euros per person).

The Blue Eye is formed by the erosion of rocks by the water that comes down from the melting snow of the Albanian Alps. The pool of blue water is fed by a small waterfall, which completes the picture. You will not be able to take your eyes off the shimmering greens and blues of this natural wonder that invites you to dive in. Overnight in a guesthouse in Theth.

Get ready for the highlight of this trip. The trek from Theth to Valbona will be an intense day, taking about 6 to 8 hours (about 1050m of ascent) in remote terrain, but undoubtedly rewarding! The Valbona Pass offers spectacular views of the Balkan peaks and the "Accursed Mountains". Reaching the top of the Valbona Pass is a real adrenaline rush. From here, you can see both sides of the valleys. This top viewpoint is perfect for a short break and the opportunity to take amazing pictures of the Albanian Alps.

From the Valbona Pass, we descend to our next destination, the Valbona Valley, another picturesque village surrounded by high mountains. Once we reach the village, we walk to the traditional guesthouse. Overnight in Valbona.

The next stop on your Peaks of the Balkans tour is Cerem. Your walk will take you through forests and meadows. You’ll come to an area that looks like a canyon and is the only place where there is snow even in summer. You’ll have the chance to hike to the highest peak in Montenegro, Zla Kolate, which will add another 3 hours to the walk (making it a total of 10 hours). Another magnificent sight on the way is a stone surface on the side of a mountain that resembles the face of a miserable old man. You’ll also pass a cave with an extremely cold wind, with an exit that remains unknown. All in all, there are many unusual things to see along the way, aside from the mountains themselves.

You’ll arrive at the guesthouse in Cerem, high up in the mountains at 1300m above sea level. There is no connection to civilization here, as there is no Wi-Fi or electricity. However, the delicious food and the warm hospitality of the people make up for the lack of facilities. Overnight in Cerem.

From Cerem, you’ll walk along a mule track towards Doberdol. On the way, you will cross the border into Montenegro for about two hours. The path takes you through pine forests where you can find all kinds of berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries (depending on the season). You will also pass through Albania's only national reserve, home to brown bears and the last remaining population of around 40 lynxes in the Balkans. It’s a beautiful route, with the highest point at 2100 meters above sea level. Along the way, you can stop in shepherd villages to enjoy a coffee or other drink. These villages are only inhabited by shepherds in the summer.

Doberdol, your destination for today, is situated at around 1800m, where you will spend another night in a shepherd’s hut. The village is picturesque, and you can choose from a variety of meals made with local ingredients. The beds here are not hotel beds but rather mattresses, and conditions are basic. The locals are very welcoming, the food is delicious, and it’s a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Overnight in a shepherd's hut in Doberdol.

Today, you head back to civilization, but not before hiking to Kosovo's highest peak, Gjeravica, which is also the second highest peak of the Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps). From the summit, you’ll enjoy views of the Accursed Mountains on one side and the Sharr Mountains on the other. During the hike, you’ll have the chance to swim in three different lakes formed by alpine and glacier water, one of which is especially striking due to its heart shape. After about 6 hours of walking, you’ll reach Gropat e Erenikut in Kosovo. From Gropat e Erenikut onward, we have organized a local transfer to drive to Gjakova. Overnight in a hotel in Gjakova.

Once you’ve had a chance to recharge from the Peaks of the Balkans hikes, you’ll have some free time to explore Gjakova on your own. The town is home to the oldest and largest bazaar in Kosovo. Although it was destroyed during the First Balkan Wars, World War II, and the Kosovo War, the bazaar has been restored to its original state. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a meal or browse shops selling traditional clothing and items. You can also visit the Clock Tower and the Hadum Mosque. The latter was built in the 16th century and somehow managed to survive the wars. Today it shows the beginnings of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, covered in stunning arabesque decoration.

After exploring the city, you will take local transport to Prizren. From here you'll take a larger bus to Tirana (Albania) and be dropped off at the bus station. From here you can make your own way to your hotel by bus or taxi (not included). You’ll return home with memories of the Balkan Peaks, ready to share your adventures with those around you.