• Travel Time: 45 min.
• Hiking Distance: 6.8 mi./11 km
• Elevation Gain: 2215 ft./675 km
• Elevation Loss: 3200 ft./975 m.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Theth, Albania

This morning, we hop into 4×4 vehicles for a 30-minute drive along a rugged alpine road into the glacial-carved Ropojana Valley, where our second cross-border hike begins—this time returning to Albania.

The trail winds through a mountain-framed valley, passing historic border stones and ruined bunkers that once marked the edge of former Yugoslavia. As we ascend, the dramatic landscape unfolds around Mt. Arapi, often called the Matterhorn of Albania, home to the tallest north face in the Balkans. Following an ancient caravan route, we descend in zigzags along the shoulder of towering limestone walls into the Thethi Valley, one of Albania’s most iconic national parks and a premier mountain destination. A short 15-minute transfer brings us to a comfortable mountain inn, where we’ll spend the next two consecutive nights. Nestled in the heart of the Alps, Theth offers a perfect base for exploring Albania’s wild beauty, with sunset views, rich biodiversity, and a deep connection to traditional mountain life.

• Travel Time: 50 min.
• Hiking Distance: 5 mi./8 km
• Elevation Gain: 490 ft./150 km
• Elevation Loss: 1315 ft./400 m.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Theth, Albania

Today begins with a visit to the village of Theth, where we’ll explore its iconic church and the historic Vendetta Tower, a symbol of Albania’s highland traditions.  From the village, we set out on a refreshing hike to the stunning Grunas Waterfall, following a scenic trail through lush alpine terrain. After reaching the falls, we continue on foot to Nderlysa, where we’ll enjoy a traditional lunch at a local guesthouse. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to extend your hike to the mesmerizing Blue Eye karst spring, a natural wonder fed by glacial waters. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear ponds formed by ancient glacial mills or simply relax at the guesthouse and soak in the serene surroundings.

Later in the day, a 45-minute transfer returns us to our mountain inn in Theth, where we’ll spend a second night surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Albanian Alps.

• Travel Time: 50 min.
• Hiking Distance: 6.2 mi./10 km
• Elevation Gain: 3690 ft./1125 km
• Elevation Loss: 2460 ft./750 m.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Valbona, Albania

After breakfast, a short 5-10 minute private transfer brings us to the trailhead of the Valbona Pass, Albania’s most iconic and well-traveled hiking route. This scenic trail links the country’s two premier national parks—Theth and Valbona—and offers a spectacular alternative to the long drive around the mountains, which takes nearly as long as the hike itself.

The trail is alive with fellow hikers and pack horses transporting luggage between valleys, adding to the vibrant mountain atmosphere. We ascend through a 300-year-old beech forest, which provides welcome shade as we climb toward the pass. Near the highest point of the trail— 5,890 ft. (1,795 m.), — we’ll pause for a picnic lunch and soak in sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, we may stop at rustic trailside cafés, perfect for a refreshing drink and a moment of rest.  After the descent, a 30–45 minute transfer takes us through the Valbona Riverbed into the lower valley, where we’ll settle in for the night at a welcoming guesthouse surrounded by alpine serenity.

• Travel Time: 50 min.
• Hiking Distance: 8 mi./12.7 km
• Elevation Gain: 3775 ft./1150 km
• Elevation Loss: 3365 ft./1025 m.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Vusanje, Montenegro

This morning begins with a brief private transfer to the trailhead for our ascent of Mt. Zla Kolata, Montenegro’s highest peak at 8,314 ft.). The trail climbs steeply through alpine terrain, offering expansive views of the horseshoe-shaped glacial valley, surrounded by towering peaks. As we gain elevation, we’re treated to a striking view of Mt. Jezerca (8,839 ft./2,694 m.), the southernmost giant of the Dinaric Alps, which stretch all the way to Mt. Triglav in Slovenia. If local shepherds are present, we may stop at their mountain hut for a refreshing drink and a glimpse into traditional highland life.

We then cross the Persllopit Pass (6,690 ft./2,039 m.), re-entering Montenegro. The descent follows karstic limestone steps, winding back into Vusanje, the tranquil village where we stayed three nights ago.

• Travel Time: 1.5 hours.
• Hiking Distance: 8.4 mi./13.5 km
• Elevation Gain: 3035 ft./925 km
• Elevation Loss: 2545 ft./775 m.
• Accommodation: Guesthouse in Bjeshka Tropojes, Kosovo

Today begins with a longer private transfer through the charming town of Plav and into the evergreen valley of Babino Polje, near the border with Kosovo. Our hike starts high in the forested hills, where we follow a trail through dense evergreens, pausing at the serene Lake Hrid—a place steeped in local legends and mountain folklore. As we ascend, the landscape opens into alpine tundra, leading us along a ridgeline to Mt. Trekufiri at 7,763 ft./2,366 m.—a remarkable summit where Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro meet. From this unique vantage point, we enjoy panoramic views across all three countries and settle in for a scenic picnic lunch.

Crossing into Kosovo, Europe’s youngest nation (formally declared independent in 2008), we continue along a peaceful trail to a secluded guesthouse, where we’ll spend the night. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn more about the region’s complex history and vibrant cultural identity.

• Travel Time: 1.5 hours
• Hiking Distance: 7.8 mi./12.5 km
• Elevation Gain: 2215 ft./675 km
• Elevation Loss: 2460 ft./750 m.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Gjakova, Kosovo

Our final hike takes us to the literal high point of the journey. After a short morning walk from our accommodation, we follow historic border patrol routes through a striking landscape shaped by metamorphic rock and dotted with glacial lakes. Weather permitting, we’ll aim to summit Mt. Gjeravica (8,714 ft/2,656 m.)—Kosovo’s highest peak. The ascent is steep and partially exposed, but rewards us with sweeping views deep into Kosovo’s mountainous interior. The final climb is optional and can be skipped for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Descending through blueberry-covered meadows and alongside alpine creeks, we reach a summer pasture, where our private transfer  awaits to take us to the vibrant city of Gjakova.

In the evening, we’ll celebrate the completion of our trek with dinner and drinks in the lively bazaar district, where restaurants and bars line the cobbled streets just steps from our hotel.

• Travel Time: 3 hours

After breakfast, a group transfer will take guests either to Tirana International Airport for outbound flights or to Tirana city center for those extending their stay in Albania. We will arrive to the airport around noon.