Peaks of the Balkans
Photo: Mensur Gashi, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Peaks of the Balkans is a 192-km circular hiking trail through the remote Accursed Mountains of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. Established in 2012, this cross-border trekking route connects alpine valleys and villages via high passes and shepherd paths. Key landmarks include Valbona Pass, Zla Kolata (Tromedja), and Rugova Canyon.
UnderstandThe Peaks of the Balkans is a rugged 192-km circular trekking route through the Prokletije, a remote mountain region long divided by the borders of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro.
PrepareHikers must obtain cross-border permits in advance to transit between countries outside of official checkpoints. These permits involve submitting passport details to authorities in Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro.
Get inThe Peaks of the Balkans is a loop trail, so it can be started at any point, but Theth and Valbona in Albania, Plav in Montenegro, and Pejë (Peja) in Kosovo are the most common hubs.
WalkThe trail is typically divided into 10 stages, each representing a day’s hike.
Stay safeThe Accursed Mountains are home to wildlife such as bears, wolves, and lynx, but these animals tend to avoid humans. Shepherd dogs guarding livestock are more likely to be encountered.
Go nextCompleting the Peaks of the Balkans opens the door to many other hiking adventures in the region.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Peaks of the Balkans" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Mensur Gashi, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons