Welcome to the Peaks of the Balkans, one of Europe’s most unspoiled and awe-inspiring hiking trails. Set across the borders of Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo, this 190-kilometre trek through the rugged Accursed Mountain Range is a transformative journey, offering some of the most scenic and raw landscapes of the Western Balkans.

Our team at 3E Travel, with years of local expertise and a passion for outdoor exploration, is here to make your adventure on the Peaks of the Balkans unforgettable. Our team pioneered border crossing walks even before the official Peaks of the Balkans trail was established. The first border crossing expedition by 3E Travel took place in July 2007. With our curated itineraries and experienced guides, 3E Travel invites you to explore the heart of this remote region, where every turn reveals pristine landscapes, welcoming local traditions, and a unique cultural heritage.

On this trail, you’ll connect not only with nature but also with the centuries-old customs that define life in the Balkans. For many, this trek has been a life-changing experience – an immersion in breathtaking views, encounters with traditional mountain communities, and a journey that renews one’s spirit.

Overview of the Peaks of the Balkans Trail

• Trail Length: 192 kilometres (119,3 miles)
• Countries: Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro
• Min. Elevation: 670 meters (2.198 ft)
• Max. Elevation: 2.290 meters (7.513 ft)
• Duration: 10 – 12 days (customisable)
• Diverse landscapes: Rugged peaks, glacial lakes, meadows, ancient forests
• Cultural immersion: Meet local communities in remote villages, and experience the traditional way of life.

Why Hike the Peaks of the Balkans?

Unspoiled Beauty: Untouched Nature, Far from Modern Civilisation

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail offers an unfiltered experience of natural beauty rarely found in today’s world. As you ascend and descend through valleys and towering peaks, you’ll be surrounded by pristine, rugged landscapes. Here, the Accursed Mountains seem to stretch on forever, unmarked by the influences of modern development, letting you lose yourself in the vastness of nature. It’s a chance to reconnect with the earth in its rawest form.

Cultural Immersion: Authentic Villages, Cold War Bunkers, and Living Traditions

This trek is more than a physical journey; it’s a cultural immersion. Along the trail, you’ll come across quaint villages where life has changed little over generations. Walk past Cold War bunkers left behind as silent markers of the past, and meet people who still carry on the ancient customs and practices of the region. From sharing a meal with a local family to learning about the history of these remote borderlands, each interaction brings you closer to the rich tapestry of Balkan culture.

A Hidden Gem: Rare and Raw Beauty, a Secret for Seasoned Hikers

The Peaks of the Balkans is a hidden gem – one of the last frontiers for wilderness hiking in Europe. UNESCO has recognised this route as one of the world’s most stunning hikes, yet it remains under the radar. It’s a rare find for those looking to explore something new and challenging while being moved by nature’s raw elegance.

Three Countries in One Trek: Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro

This trail is a unique cultural and natural journey through three countries, each offering its own experiences. Albania greets you with lush valleys and welcoming villages, Kosovo showcases sweeping alpine meadows and dramatic landscapes, while Montenegro offers glacial lakes and some of the most remote terrains of the trail. The blend of languages, traditions, and people bring the trek to life, giving you a deeper sense of the rich diversity that defines the Balkans.

Highlights of the Peaks of the Balkans Trail

• Village of Theth (Albania): Nestled in the heart of the Albanian Accursed Mountains, Theth enchants with its traditional stone houses, alpine meadows, and the sound of mountain streams, offering a serene pause amid rugged surroundings.
• Taljanka and Grebaje Valley (Montenegro): Known as the most beautiful valley in the former Yugoslavia, Grebaje is framed by dramatic cliffs and peaks that showcase Montenegro’s unspoiled landscapes, perfect for a scenic detour.
• Gjeravica (Kosovo): Kosovo’s highest peak at 2.656 metres, Gjeravica stands proudly with glacial lakes dotting its slopes, offering breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment for trekkers.
• Cold War Bunkers (Albania): Scattered across the landscape, these communist-era bunkers are a fascinating reminder of Albania’s complex past and add a unique historical layer to the journey.

Who Can Hike the Peaks of the Balkans?

• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate, but requires good physical condition
• Daily Challenges: 20 kilometres per day, with 1.000 m ascent and descent each day
• Preparation Tips:
  • Train in advance – Strengthen your stamina and legs for mountain hiking
  • Bring cash (Euros), good hiking boots, and essential gear
  • Break in your hiking boots before the trip to avoid injuries like blisters.

3E Travel Guided vs. Self-Guided Offer: What’s Right for You?

Guided Tours:

• Benefits of local guides – navigation, cultural insights, smooth logistics
• Safety – avoid getting lost and maximise your experience
• 3E Travel’s options – regular guided groups, flexible itineraries, and extra guides for larger groups

Self-Guided Tours:

• Independence and freedom to explore at your own pace, assuming that you have hiking experience
• Importance of preparation and understanding local conditions
• 3E Travel’s support for self-guided hikers – pre-trip briefings, emergency contacts, and permit arrangements.

Why Choose 3E Travel for Your Peaks of the Balkans Adventure?

• Personalised Service: Flexible itineraries, cultural add-ons, and transportation assistance
• Expertise and Support: From planning to execution, 3E Travel has the experience to guide you
• Cultural Immersion: Make the most of your journey with local insights and authentic experiences
• Safety and Comfort: Extra guides for larger groups, accommodations, and assistance throughout

Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime?

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail is more than a hike; it’s an immersion into some of Europe’s last unspoiled wilderness, a journey through ancient cultures, and an opportunity to experience life-changing beauty.

From the untamed landscapes of the Accursed Mountains to the welcoming smiles of villagers in Theth, each step unveils the raw, rare charm of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. It’s a trek that combines the thrill of adventure with the warmth of cultural connection, leaving hikers with memories that last a lifetime.

Ready to embark on this remarkable journey? Join 3E Travel and let us guide you through the hidden wonders of the Balkans with expertise, comfort, and a true passion for these extraordinary mountains.