undiscovered western balkans

Price From

POA

Duration

9 Days

Category

Hiking, Cultural Discovery

Difficulty

T2

Support Level

Self-Guided/Drive

Destinations

Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro

Start/Finish

Tirana

Why join this tour?

  • Discover the history, culture and traditions of Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro
  • Admire the pristine nature and the dramatic mountain landscape while hiking in Valbona and Theth
  • Enjoy a memorable ferry ride along the Koman Lake surrounded by the rugged mountain peaks of the Albanian Alps
  • Relax in unique accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to hotels in historic towns.

The right tour for you?

  • This is a self-guided & self-drive tour. We will provide you with all the necessary information to safely perform it.
  • This tour starts and ends in Tirana. You can book a rental car yourself or let us book one for you.
  • This tour includes some hiking days. A certain level of fitness is required.
  • This trip covers 3 countries, so there is a fair amount of driving involved.
Day 1: Welcome to Tirana

Settle into your centrally located hotel in Tirana, a city where history and modern energy collide. Wander the boulevards to uncover layers of Albania’s past, from Ottoman influences to communist monuments.
If time permits, head to Dajti Mountain via cable car for sweeping views that stretch beyond the city. As evening falls, explore the lively “Blloku” district, brimming with trendy bars and cafes—a vibrant transformation of what was once a forbidden zone, reserved only for the communist elite.

The price includes:
  • Accommodation in a 4-Star hotel in Tirana
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 2: A Day of Heritage and Scenic Views – Krujë to Gjakova

The day begins with a drive to Krujë, a historic city on a mountain 600 meters above sea level. Known as the capital of the Illyrian tribes and later the principality of Arber, it was the heart of Skanderbeg’s resistance against the Ottomans.
At the hilltop castle, enjoy stunning views and explore the Museum of the National Hero and the Ethnographic Museum. End your visit with a walk through the 400-year-old handicrafts market, where artisans display their crafts.
In the afternoon, continue to Prizren, Kosovo. Explore the city or hike to Prizren Castle for sweeping views. The day concludes with a transfer to Gjakova for an overnight stay.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a 3-Star hotel in Gjakovë
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

The Path to Valbona – From Silver Threads to Alpine Trails

Hiking: T2, 3h, ↑400m, ↓400m, 7km

Start your day exploring the charming alleys of the old town and the reconstructed bazaar, a 16th-century showcase of local handicrafts. The city is renowned for its filigree, a traditional art form using fine silver and gold threads to create intricate, lace-like designs.
Following the visit, the journey continues into Albania and through the stunning Valbona Valley.
As you approach Valbona, the road follows the meandering Valbona River, flanked by dramatic peaks and unspoiled alpine vistas, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely hike from the hotel to the hills above the valley. The trail, though gentle, rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The descent leads through “Kukaj” and back to the hotel. End your day with a hearty dinner and a restful night at a cozy hotel in Valbona.

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

 

Day 4: From Koman’s Still Waters to Shkodra’s City Lights

After a leisurely morning, the journey to Fierzë begins, setting the stage for a memorable ferry ride across Lake Koman. The lake’s breathtaking beauty, with its emerald waters and towering cliffs, creates a serene and otherworldly experience.
From Koman, the trip proceeds by car to Shkodra, where you’ll have time to relax at your hotel or soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Ferry ride along the Koman Lake
  • Accommodation in a 4-Star hotel in Shkodër
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 5: A journey from From Shkodra’s Heritage to Theth’s Wilderness

Shkodra, the cultural and political hub of northern Albania, boasts a 2400-year history as one of the country’s oldest inhabited cities. We suggest exploring the ethnographic museum and taking a short hike to Rozafa Castle. Perched on a steep hill between the Buna and Drin rivers, the castle’s origins trace back to the Illyrians and have shaped the city’s history over centuries.
In the afternoon, the journey continues to Theth, home to one of Albania’s most stunning national parks. Located at an altitude of 1000 to 2567 meters, the park is surrounded by dramatic peaks, with dense forests covering much of its terrain—some parts untouched and wild. Theth’s picturesque valley serves as a perfect base for hiking and exploring the park. Your accommodation will be at a cozy guesthouse in the village.

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

 

Day 6: Theth’s Wonders – Where Culture Meets Nature

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

Your day begins with a short hike to the Isolation Tower, where you’ll discover the ancient traditions of the “Kanun,” a set of Albanian customary laws passed down orally until the 20th century.
Next, you’ll visit the Grunas Waterfall and Grunas Canyon, a striking natural wonder with walls 30 meters high and a width of just one meter. After a brief pause to admire the view, the hike continues to Ndërlysaj, home to the mesmerizing glacier mills, where crystal-clear water winds through sculpted rock formations. The trail leads you to the Blue Eye of Kaprre, a dazzling natural pool surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in its icy, snow-fed waters if you’re feeling brave.
If you wish, you can enjoy a traditional homemade lunch at one of Ndërlysaj’s restaurants before hiking back to your guesthouse for a restful evening.

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

 

Day 7: Montenegro’s Capitals and Budva’s Historic Charm

Today, your journey leads into Montenegro, with opportunities to explore Podgorica and Çetinje, the country’s current and former capitals. These cities offer glimpses into Montenegro’s historical and cultural heritage.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic centre of Budva, a town steeped in legend, said to be founded by Cadmus, son of the Phoenician king Agenor. The old town, located within 15th-century fortress walls, features narrow streets, charming squares, and monuments. Rebuilt in Venetian style after the 1979 earthquake, it reflects the influence of Venetian rule. Accommodation for the night is planned at a hotel in Budva.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a 3* hotel in Budva
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 8: From Kotor’s Fortress Walls to Preast’s Legends – A Day of Discovery

Begin your day with a visit to Kotor, a stunning town at the base of Mount Lovćen. Encircled by towering walls 15 meters high and 4.5 kilometres long, Kotor invites exploration. Visit the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, delve into maritime history at the local museum, or take a walk along the ancient fortifications for breathtaking vistas.
Nearby, Perast offers a quiet escape with its elegant Baroque architecture. From here, a boat ride across the bay brings you to “Our Lady of the Rocks,” an enchanting island built over the centuries. The sanctuary is a highlight of the visit.
In the afternoon, journey to Ulcinj, a town rich in history and cultural layers, from the Illyrians to the Ottomans. Your day ends in Shkodra, where you’ll settle in for the night.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a 4-Star hotel in Shkodra
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 9: Until Next Time

Enjoy your last Albanian breakfast at the hotel before it’s time to pack up and say goodbye to this beautiful country.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
*Please see “Inclusions” section!
The price includes:
  • 6 nights accommodation in hotels on a twin-share basis (Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 and 8)
  • 2 nights accommodation in guest houses on a multi-share basis (Days 5 and 6)
  • 8 x Breakfast
  • 1 x Lunch
  • 3 x Dinner
  • Ferry ride along the Koman Lake (Day 4)
  • Detailed information and route descriptions in English
  • 24/7 emergency telephone support

 

The price does not include:

  • Any form of transportation
  • Rental Vehicle
  • Entry tickets to museums, galleries, etc.
  • Meals not listed under “The price includes”
  • Any beverages
  • Any type of insurance
  • Other services not listed under “The price includes”

Low Season:

01 April 2025 – 31 May 2025

01 October 2025 – 30 November 2025

High Season:

01 June 2025 – 30 September 2025

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

Performance level:
This tour offers a combination of hiking activities with the cultural discovery of the places you will visit. A moderate level of fitness is required for the activities.

 

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:

This is a self-drive tour. The transfers described in the itinerary are not included in the price and you will travel on your own. You can use your own vehicle, rent one at your own convenience, or we can assist you in finding the right rental vehicle for you.

 

You can find more detailed information by clicking here.

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