dinaric alps hiking – remote trails and scenic views

Price From

POA

Duration

9 Days

Category

Hiking

Difficulty

T3

Support Level

Self-Guided

Destinations

Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro

Start/Finish

Shkodër/Gjakovë

Why join this tour?

  • Embark on a once in a lifetime varied self-guided hiking tour
  • Get out of your comfort zone to explore the unattainable Dinaric Mountains
  • Traverse the breathtaking Albanian Alps, Montenegro and Kosovo borderlands, exploring pristine peaks, tranquil valleys, and glacial lakes.
  • Experience life and culture on a journey through this authentic corner of the Western Balkans
  • Rest easy with thoughtfully curated accommodations, hearty meals, and convenient transfers, leaving you free to savor every moment.

The right tour for you?

  • This is a hiking tour, so a moderate level of fitness is required.
  • This is a self-guided tour. We will provide you with all the necessary information to safely hike on these trails.
  • This tour includes alpine crossings, which you have to perform in order to continue with the program.
  • Accommodation in the shepherds’ hut is an exciting and authentic experience without the usual indoor plumbing.
  • This tour starts in Shkodra and ends in Gjakova (Kosovo). You can book any other transfers yourself, or let us organize them for you.
Day 1: Discover Kelmend – A Tranquil Gateway to the Albanian Alps

Hiking: T2, 3h, ↑550m, ↓550m, 9km

Start your journey to the north after breakfast, with a pick-up from your hotel in Shkodra. The scenic drive through the rugged Çem valley takes you past the villages of Tamarë and Selcë, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Arriving in Lëpushë by midday, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling hills and tranquil forests. In the afternoon, embark on a short hike to the Berizhdoli Pass, an easy trail perfect for easing into the adventure. A home-cooked dinner and a relaxing stay at a local guesthouse round out your day in this serene mountain village.

The price includes:
  • Private transfer from Shkodra to Lëpushë
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a guesthouse in Lëpushë
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 2: Borderland Hike – Vajusha Peak

Hiking: T3, 6h, ↑850m, ↓850, 10km

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a hike through the stunning landscapes along the Albania-Montenegro border. The trail winds through lush forests, steadily climbing to 1650 meters before ascending to the impressive Vajusha Peak at 2059 meters. From the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys—perfect for a photo break.
After soaking in the scenery, you’ll descend back to Lëpushë, where a vehicle will transfer you across the border to your guesthouse in Vuthaj (Vusanje), Montenegro, for a restful evening.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Private local transfer from Lëpushë to Vuthaj
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a guesthouse in Vuthaj
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 3: Glacial Lakes and Rugged Beauty – A Trek to Theth

Hiking: T3, 9h, ↑1100m, ↓1450m, 23km

Today’s is a longer hike, so you’ll start from your guesthouse early after breakfast. This iconic trail through the Dinaric Alps offers breathtaking views of steep mountains and historical ruins, remnants of a time when this area was off-limits.
The hike passes by the Gjeshtarë glacial lake on the Albania-Montenegro border before winding through the Rapojana Valley towards “Fusha e Runicës.” Passing “Sheu i Bardhë,” the path takes you toward the stunning Peja glacial lake and over Peja Pass. The descent to Theth follows a rocky trail surrounded by vibrant forests, streams, and dramatic peaks. During the hike there are plenty of places where you can take breaks and enjoy the stunning landscapes. End the day with a hearty dinner and a restful stay in a welcoming guesthouse in Theth.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a guesthouse in Theth
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 4: A Day of Exploration in Theth – From the Isolation Tower to the Blue Eye

Hiking: T2, 6h, 600m, 600m, 15km

Start your morning with a hike to the Isolation Tower, where you’ll step into Albania’s cultural past and learn about the “Kanun,” a centuries-old code of laws.
The adventure continues to the Grunas Waterfall and its towering canyon, a breathtaking sight with sheer cliffs and cascading water. From there, the trail takes you to Ndërlysaj, where the glacier mills reveal nature’s artistry—carved rocks and shimmering water framed by vibrant greenery. The highlight of the day is the Blue Eye of Kaprre, a stunning natural pool with deep, snow-fed blue waters nestled in a jungle-like oasis.
If you like, you can savour a simple, homemade lunch in Ndërlysaj before returning to the village guesthouse, where you’ll end your day surrounded by Theth’s tranquil beauty.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a guesthouse in Theth
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 5: Sweeping Vistas and Serene Trails – The Path to Valbonë

Hiking: T2, 7h, ↑1100m, ↓900m, 17km

The hike of the day begins from your guesthouse. The well-marked trail starts gently, winding through serene woodlands before climbing more steeply to reach the Pass of Valbonë. At 1812 meters above sea level, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Valbonë and Theth valleys.
The descent into Valbonë starts rocky but gradually softens as you approach the valley floor. Following the river through the picturesque Valbonë Valley, you’ll arrive at the village, where a hearty dinner and a comfortable hotel accommodation awaits.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a hotel in Valbonë
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 6: Exploring Kukaj – A Hike to Alpine Serenity in the surroundings of Valbona

Hiking: T2, 4h, ↑750m, ↓750m, 12km

Start your day with a hike to the hanging glacial valley of Kukaj. The trail takes you through a mix of boulder fields, meadows, and tranquil beech forests. Passing the charming houses of Kukaj, the path climbs along the valley’s edge to a grassy plateau. Here, a shepherd’s hut provides the perfect spot to savour your packed lunch as you gaze over sweeping alpine vistas.
After taking in the scenery, you’ll descend back to the hotel in the valley. The afternoon is yours to relax. Dinner will be served at the hotel.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a hotel in Valbonë
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 7: The path to Dobërdol – Forests, Blueberries, and Mountain Charm

Hiking: T2, 6h, ↑1050m, ↓450m, 16km

Your day begins with a short transfer to the village of Çerem, located 16 kilometers northeast of Valbona. From here, the hike starts along a stream, leading into the tranquil forest. The scent of pine fills the air as you weave through the shaded path. The trail to Dobërdol offers incredible variety, passing through dense woods, open meadows, and fields of wild blueberries.
As you approach the upper reaches of the Gashi Valley, the trail climbs steeply but briefly to reach Dobërdol, a serene spot nestled in the mountains. Dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional shepherd’s hut complete your day.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Local transfer from Valbona to Çerem
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in shepherd’s hut in Dobërdol
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 8: From Wilderness to Comfort – From the summit of Gjeravica to Gjakova

Hiking: T3, 7h, ↑1000m, ↓950m, 17km

Wake up amidst the tranquil wilderness of the Dobërdol plateau, where untouched nature surrounds you. After breakfast at the shepherd’s hut, set off on a hike through meadows dotted with blueberries. The trail leads to the mountain ridge that marks the border between Albania and Kosovo.
As you follow the ridge southeast, you’ll encounter the stunning heart-shaped glacial lake of Gjeravica, a highlight of the journey. The hike continues with an ascent to the Gjeravica Peak, where breathtaking panoramic views await. After a break, begin the descent to the rendezvous point for your 4×4 transfer to Gjakova. End the day with dinner and a comfortable stay at a small boutique hotel in the city.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Local 4×4 transfer to Gjakovë
  • Accommodation in a hotel in Gjakovë
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 9: From Farewell to New Beginnings – Your Next Destination Awaits

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to decide your next steps. Weather you return to Tirana, Shkodra, or other destinations in Albania or Kosovo, or embark on your next adventure, your journey through the Albanian Alps will stay with you as a tale of exploration and wonder.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
*Please see “Inclusions” section!
The price includes:
  • Short local transfers (Days 1, 2 and 7)
  • 3 nights accommodation in hotels on a twin-share basis (Days 5, 6 and 8)
  • 4 nights accommodation in guesthouses on a multi-share basis (Days 1, 2, 3 and 4)
  • 1 night accommodation in shepherd’s hut on a multi-share basis (Day 7)
  • 8 x Breakfast
  • 6 x Packed Lunch
  • 7 x Dinner
  • Detailed information and route descriptions in English
  • 24/7 emergency telephone support

 

The price does not include:

  • Transfers not listed under “The price includes”
  • Luggage transportation between the accommodations
  • Entry tickets to museums, galleries, etc.
  • Meals not listed under “The price includes”
  • Any beverages
  • National Park fees
  • Any type of insurance
  • Other services not listed under “The price includes”

Season:

01 April 2025 – 31 May 2025

01 October 2025 – 30 November 2025

Traveling with a group larger than four or seeking customized accommodations? Contact us here.

Performance level:
This tour includes alpine crossings (Days 3, 5, 7 and 8), which you have to perform in order to continue with the program.

 

Border crossing permits:

During this tour, you will cross international borders outside of regular border crossing points. To apply for the border crossing permits, we require a high-quality scan of your passport, no later than 35 days before departure. If you are unsure about the validity of your travel documents, please feel free to contact us prior to booking your trip.

 

Luggage transportation:

During this tour you will have to carry your own luggage on days 3, 5, 7 and 8. Please pack carefully and lightly.
Please bring a day pack/bag to carry clothing, water, packed meals, a camera etc. for the day trips, so that you don’t have to carry your main luggage on these days.

 

Orientation:

Most of the hiking trails are signed, but not always visible. Some of the trails might not be well marked and eventual bad weather can make navigation difficult. We will provide you with a detailed information package to help your navigation. Good navigation skills are necessary.

 

Transfers:

Any transfers required to get you to the destination and back are not included in the price and you will travel on your own. We are happy to assist you with the booking of private transfers to and from the destination.
If you wish you can travel using public transport. For more information on timetables, please contact us.

 

You can find more detailed information by clicking here.

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