Kukes – Shishtavec – Mt. Kallabak – Caje

Starting from Kukes, a 45 min transfer takes you through the mighty Vanave Gorge up a winding road into the Gora (highlands). When nation-states formed at the turn of the 20th century, the formerly nomadic, Slavic-speaking Gorani community spread across the border triangle. Starting near Shishtavec, a gradual ascent leads you to the rocky outcrop of Mt. Kallabak (2.174 m). It’s the very first peak of the Sharr Massif from where one can spot “The Pope’s Hat”, the peak where the borders of three countries meet. Onward, you walk through seemingly endless meadows along a panoramic ridgeline, crisscrossing the border between Albania and Kosovo. A glimpse of Mt. Korab (2.764 m) creates pleasant anticipation of this highlight ahead. Descending into a deep-cut alpine valley, you reach the remote village Caje, possibly the highest year-round inhabited settlement of Albania. Don’t miss out on the “club”, the nucleus of every Albanian village, for a chit-chat with the elders and a glass of strong raki (local firewater). You just completed the first stage of the High Scardus Trail.