Peaks of the Balkans Trail

About

Highlights

• Cross three countries on foot: Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro
• Trek through the dramatic Accursed Mountains (Prokletije)
• Stay in traditional guesthouses in remote mountain villages
• Summit optional peaks including Maja Jezercë and Zla Kolata
• Explore the pristine Valbona and Theth valleys
• Experience authentic Balkan cuisine and hospitality
• Visit the glacial lakes of Plav and Gjeravica region
• Walk ancient shepherd trails connecting isolated communities

Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1: Arrival in Tirana and Transfer to Theth

   Arrive at Tirana International Airport where you will be met by our representative. Transfer by 4WD vehicle through winding mountain roads to the remote village of Theth in the Albanian Alps (approximately 4 hours). Settle into your traditional stone guesthouse and enjoy a welcome dinner with your guide and fellow trekkers, followed by a trip briefing.
   
   1 DayDinnerTraditional Guesthouse in Theth
2. 2

   Day 2: Theth to Valbona via Valbona Pass

   Begin your trek with the classic crossing of the Valbona Pass (1,795m), one of the most spectacular sections of the trail. Ascend through beech forests before reaching the pass with breathtaking views of the Accursed Mountains. Descend into the lush Valbona Valley, arriving at your guesthouse for a hearty traditional meal.
   6-8 hours17 Km950m1,100mBreakfastLunchDinnerGuesthouse in Valbona
3. 3

   Day 3: Valbona to Çerem

   Trek northward through remote alpine meadows and dense forests to reach the isolated hamlet of Çerem. The trail follows old shepherd paths crossing the Persllopi Pass with panoramic views of surrounding peaks. Çerem is a tiny settlement with just a few families offering traditional hospitality in this untouched corner of Albania.
   7-8 hours18 Km1,100m800mBreakfastLunchDinnerMountain Guesthouse in Çerem
4. 4

   Day 4: Çerem to Dobërdol

   Cross the border into Kosovo today, walking through pristine wilderness and alpine pastures. The trail climbs gradually through wildflower meadows before descending to the remote shepherd settlement of Dobërdol, situated at 1,750m. Enjoy the tranquility of this pastoral high-altitude village where traditional dairy farming still thrives.
   6-7 hours15 Km900m500mBreakfastLunchDinnerShepherd's Lodge in Dobërdol
5. 5

   Day 5: Dobërdol to Milishevc via Three-Border Peak

   One of the most memorable days as you climb the Tromeda (Three-Border Peak) at 2,366m where Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro meet. Enjoy sweeping views across all three countries before descending into the Kosovo village of Milishevc. This challenging day rewards trekkers with unparalleled ridgeline vistas of the entire Balkan mountain range.
   8-9 hours20 Km1,200m1,050mBreakfastLunchDinnerGuesthouse in Milishevc
6. 6

   Day 6: Milishevc to Reka e Allagës

   A relatively easier day trekking through Kosovo's beautiful Rugova region. The trail passes through beech and pine forests, crossing streams and traditional pastures. Arrive in the small village of Reka e Allagës where you'll stay with a local family and learn about traditional Kosovar mountain life.
   5-6 hours14 Km600m800mBreakfastLunchDinnerFamily Guesthouse in Reka e Allagës
7. 7

   Day 7: Reka e Allagës to Babino Polje (Montenegro)

   Cross into Montenegro today over a scenic mountain pass with views of Gjeravica, Kosovo's highest peak. Descend through pine forests and lush valleys into Montenegro, arriving at the peaceful mountain settlement of Babino Polje near the Plav region. Sample Montenegrin cuisine which features hearty stews and fresh dairy products.
   7-8 hours17 Km1,000m1,100mBreakfastLunchDinnerMountain Guesthouse in Babino Polje
8. 8

   Day 8: Babino Polje to Vusanje via Hridsko Lake

   Trek past the beautiful glacial Hridsko Lake, considered sacred by locals, surrounded by ancient forests. Continue over the Bora Pass with dramatic views of Zla Kolata (2,534m), Montenegro's highest peak. Descend to the traditional village of Vusanje with views of the towering Karanfili peaks that resemble sharp carnation petals.
   7-8 hours18 Km900m1,200mBreakfastLunchDinnerGuesthouse in Vusanje
9. 9

   Day 9: Vusanje to Theth via Peja Pass

   The final trekking day takes you back into Albania via the dramatic Peja Pass (1,711m). Pass by the stunning Grla Springs and cross into the Theth National Park with views back over the Accursed Mountains you've circumnavigated. Descend through beech forests to complete the circular trail in Theth, where a celebratory dinner awaits.
   8-9 hours19 Km1,100m1,000mBreakfastLunchDinnerTraditional Guesthouse in Theth
10. 10

    Day 10: Transfer to Tirana and Departure

    After breakfast, transfer by 4WD back through the mountains to Tirana (approximately 4 hours). Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a short walking tour of Tirana's colorful capital, including Skanderbeg Square and the Blloku district. Transfer to Tirana International Airport for your onward flight home.
    1 DayBreakfast

Route map

Available add-ons

5-Start Hotel

$300

Stay a luxurious stay in 5 star hotel insted of common Teahouses.

Good to know