7-day self-guided Peaks of the Balkans (basic)

A morning shuttle takes you from Shkoder through the mountain valleys to Thore Pass (1,648 m) and Theth. From the village, climb through beech forest and open meadows towards Valbona Pass (1,811 m).

Weather permitting, the pass offers wide views across both valleys and the limestone peaks. A long zigzag descent leads towards Valbona. A short local transfer from the end of the trail to your accommodation is required, but cannot be included in the tour price for logistical reasons. Arrange and pay for this final leg locally.

Spend the night at a family-run guesthouse. This substantial first walking day is an immediate introduction to the terrain of the Albanian Alps.

Leave Valbona for one of the longer and more demanding climbs of the trek. The trail rises through pastures into a treeless alpine basin before crossing Persllopi Pass (2,039 m). Mount Kolata (2,534 m) towers nearby, while the rocky karst terrain requires sure-footedness.

Descend through the border highlands to Cerem and spend the night in a simple village guesthouse. Mobile reception is limited.

If snow, weather or trail conditions make Persllopi Pass unsafe, a transfer takes you to Cerem instead. From there, enjoy a circular walk along the scenic border ridgeline above the village, as described in the navigation materials. Follow the advised option rather than attempting the high pass when conditions are unsuitable.

Follow a high route from Cerem through flower-rich meadows and conifer forest towards the Gash Valley. Views extend back to Mount Kolata and across the changing limestone and pasture landscapes of the Albanian Alps.

The route passes seasonal grazing areas before reaching Doberdol at around 1,750 m. This high-pasture settlement is an important stop on the Peaks of the Balkans and can be busy during the main hiking season.

Accommodation is in simple shepherd huts with shared bathroom facilities. Conditions are basic, but the overnight provides a practical base between long mountain stages and an opportunity to observe seasonal pastoral life.

Climb steeply from Doberdol towards Mount Trekufiri (2,366 m), where Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro meet. From the summit area, continue into Montenegro along open slopes beneath Mount Bogicevica.

The route descends towards Lake Hrid, a forest-framed alpine lake at around 1,900 m. In suitable weather, the lake offers a possible swimming stop before the walk continues through pine forest.

The day ends at Bajrovica Katun, a small seasonal shepherd settlement. Accommodation is in a simple mountain cabin, and temperatures can fall sharply after sunset at this altitude.

A transfer leads from Bajrovica Katun into the upper Ropojana Valley, shortening the approach on the rough track. Walk through alpine meadows, beech forest and karst terrain past Gjeshtare Lake and remains of the former border zone.

A small lake marks the approach to Peja Pass (1,711 m). From the pass, a steep path descends in long bends into the Theth Valley. Near the bottom, you may arrange a local 4×4 lift to the village or continue on foot along the track.

A minibus then returns you from Theth to Shkodër. The combination of the morning transfer, pass crossing and onward journey makes this a long final trekking day.

The trek ends after breakfast in Shkoder. We recommend pre-booking an optional onward transfer to Tirana or Podgorica airport or city, arranged around your departure time. This service is not included in the tour price, and you can also travel independently.

If you missed Shkoder's sights on arrival, take time to explore the old town, Rozafa Castle or the lakeshore before leaving. Tirana is also worth an extra day for its museums, cafes and lively neighbourhoods.