WALK MENU
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Traverse on a challenging 7-day journey through the remote Western Balkans, following the “Peaks of the Balkans” trail across Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. You’ll cross borders between traditional shepherd villages like Theth and Valbona, and discover pristine alpine landscapes and open pastures, including areas once restricted during the Communist era. Experience authentic Balkan hospitality in rustic mountain guesthouses, where traditional food and warm welcomes are integral to the experience. The local way of life is deeply rooted in age-old customs and the resilient spirit of the mountain communities. The adventure culminates with a final demanding section through the Accursed Mountains and a return to Shkoder, providing a deep insight into one of Europe’s most culturally rich and unspoiled hiking destinations.
Highlights
- Explore picturesque Albanian villages known for medieval stone towers (kulla), waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage.
- Cross one of the most iconic high mountain passes with sweeping views of rugged peaks and deep valleys.
- Hike through Montenegro’s most scenic valley and summit Taljanka for panoramic views over the dramatic Accursed Mountains.
- Walk across natural, open-border mountain trails connecting Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, once closed-off regions during Communist times.
- Traverse flower-filled meadows, alpine lakes, dense forests, and rocky ridgelines in some of Europe’s most pristine wilderness.
- Savor homemade Albanian meals prepared by local families
- Discover a unique blend of Balkan history, folklore, and hospitality where ancient traditions remain alive.
- Conclude the journey with a challenging yet rewarding hike through this legendary and remote mountain range.
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS WALK GRADE
Challenging 
Grade 5 - Challenging
Longer, tougher, steeper hill sections, rough terrain with possibly many steps. Active lifestyle, good fitness and walking experience required.PRICE FROM
$ 1995
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 255 
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
-
30+ YEARS
-
ECO TRAVEL
-
SELF GUIDED
-
PACK FREE
ITINERARY
WHAT’S INCLUDED
-
AUTHENTIC STAYS
-
WALKING APP
-
Luggage Transfers
-
Epic Hiking
- 6 nights comfortable homestay and guesthouse accommodation throughout the trek
- 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 traditional Albanian dinners
- Private transfers between key locations for convenience
- Comprehensive trail maps and route details
- Support for dietary needs with vegetarian options available
- Luggage transfers (20kg max) to make your hiking experience easier
- Border permits
- Entrance fees for the National Parks
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
There is a variety of accommodations on this trek ranging from 3 or 4-star hotels in Shkoder through to basic, modest guesthouses high up in the mountains at Vusanje. Each offers an authentic local experience with simple, rustic charm. We aim to book private rooms with ensuite facilities, however, due to the nature of the trail being in remote mountain villages, in some instances, bathrooms will be very basic and may be shared. Bedding and towels are provided, but guests are advised to bring an additional towel for swimming in some of the lakes.
The food is a highlight, with fresh, traditionally prepared meals blending Balkan, Turkish, and European influences. Guesthouses provide simple breakfasts of homemade bread and local produce, hearty dinners with soups, meats, vegetables, and pies, and packed lunches, often including a cheese and vegetable sandwich. Vegetarian and other dietary needs can be accommodated, though choices may be basic. Guests should bring a water bottle for refills from mountain streams or potable guesthouse tap water; water treatment tablets are suggested for those concerned about untreated water.
-
DAY 1
-
DAY 2
-
DAY 3
-
DAY 4 & 5
-
DAY 6
FITNESS GUIDE
It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed. Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.
The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.
DISTANCE - AVERAGE
Distance training is undoubtedly a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan. Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 26km in a single day. Additionally, also include back-to-back walks to simulate walking on consecutive days. This helps your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.
ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE
Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs. If you do not have access to hills, it it essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible via a treadmill or stair climber. Prioritizing resistance training assumes heightened significance in this context, emphasizing the incorporation of stair climbing whenever feasible. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles.
MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN
As terrain associated with Mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and or rocky balancing and core exercises are vital. Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills or up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is often the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles. So concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.
UNEVEN TERRAIN
Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.
Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.
The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.
Overview 
SELF GUIDED 
7 DAYS 
Challenging 
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Traverse on a challenging 7-day journey through the remote Western Balkans, following the “Peaks of the Balkans” trail across Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. You’ll cross borders between traditional shepherd villages like Theth and Valbona, and discover pristine alpine landscapes and open pastures, including areas once restricted during the Communist era. Experience authentic Balkan hospitality in rustic mountain guesthouses, where traditional food and warm welcomes are integral to the experience. The local way of life is deeply rooted in age-old customs and the resilient spirit of the mountain communities. The adventure culminates with a final demanding section through the Accursed Mountains and a return to Shkoder, providing a deep insight into one of Europe’s most culturally rich and unspoiled hiking destinations.
Highlights
- Explore picturesque Albanian villages known for medieval stone towers (kulla), waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage.
- Cross one of the most iconic high mountain passes with sweeping views of rugged peaks and deep valleys.
- Hike through Montenegro’s most scenic valley and summit Taljanka for panoramic views over the dramatic Accursed Mountains.
- Walk across natural, open-border mountain trails connecting Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, once closed-off regions during Communist times.
- Traverse flower-filled meadows, alpine lakes, dense forests, and rocky ridgelines in some of Europe’s most pristine wilderness.
- Savor homemade Albanian meals prepared by local families
- Discover a unique blend of Balkan history, folklore, and hospitality where ancient traditions remain alive.
- Conclude the journey with a challenging yet rewarding hike through this legendary and remote mountain range.
WALK OVERVIEW
TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS WALK GRADE
Challenging Grade 5 - Challenging
Longer, tougher, steeper hill sections, rough terrain with possibly many steps. Active lifestyle, good fitness and walking experience required.PRICE FROM
$ 1995
per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 255 
Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.
per person
-
30+ YEARS
-
ECO TRAVEL
-
SELF GUIDED
-
PACK FREE
Itinerary
ITINERARY
What’s Included
WHAT’S INCLUDED
-
AUTHENTIC STAYS
-
WALKING APP
-
Luggage Transfers
-
Epic Hiking
- 6 nights comfortable homestay and guesthouse accommodation throughout the trek
- 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 traditional Albanian dinners
- Private transfers between key locations for convenience
- Comprehensive trail maps and route details
- Support for dietary needs with vegetarian options available
- Luggage transfers (20kg max) to make your hiking experience easier
- Border permits
- Entrance fees for the National Parks
Accommodation & Dining
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
OVERVIEW
There is a variety of accommodations on this trek ranging from 3 or 4-star hotels in Shkoder through to basic, modest guesthouses high up in the mountains at Vusanje. Each offers an authentic local experience with simple, rustic charm. We aim to book private rooms with ensuite facilities, however, due to the nature of the trail being in remote mountain villages, in some instances, bathrooms will be very basic and may be shared. Bedding and towels are provided, but guests are advised to bring an additional towel for swimming in some of the lakes.
The food is a highlight, with fresh, traditionally prepared meals blending Balkan, Turkish, and European influences. Guesthouses provide simple breakfasts of homemade bread and local produce, hearty dinners with soups, meats, vegetables, and pies, and packed lunches, often including a cheese and vegetable sandwich. Vegetarian and other dietary needs can be accommodated, though choices may be basic. Guests should bring a water bottle for refills from mountain streams or potable guesthouse tap water; water treatment tablets are suggested for those concerned about untreated water.
-
DAY 1
-
DAY 2
-
DAY 3
-
DAY 4 & 5
-
DAY 6
Fitness Guide 
FITNESS GUIDE
It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed. Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.
The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.
DISTANCE - AVERAGE
Distance training is undoubtedly a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan. Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 26km in a single day. Additionally, also include back-to-back walks to simulate walking on consecutive days. This helps your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.
ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE
Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs. If you do not have access to hills, it it essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible via a treadmill or stair climber. Prioritizing resistance training assumes heightened significance in this context, emphasizing the incorporation of stair climbing whenever feasible. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles.
MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN
As terrain associated with Mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and or rocky balancing and core exercises are vital. Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills or up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills, boring as that sounds, is incredibly useful. Elevation is often the chief walk killer, not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles. So concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.
UNEVEN TERRAIN
Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.
Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.
The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.
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ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.