Cedar Path - Balkan Alps July 2024

The expedition will officially begin early evening in Theth, Albania at our Guesthouse. We will gather to meet each other, have a trip orientation and share dinner before resting up for the following morning’s hike.

If you are opting into the Cedar Path shuttle, you will be picked up this morning at the Tirana airport and driven 6-7 hours to Theth.

Theth is one of the most picturesque villages in Northern Albania, dating back to the Middle Ages. In Theth stands a famous building called the Kulla e Ngujimit, a three storey stone building with no windows. In the ancient days this building was used for self exile during the blood feuds of the area.

• Meals: -/-/D

After an early morning hearty breakfast we will start our hike to Valbona. Today we will experience one of Albania’s most iconic hikes from Theth over the Valbona Pass (5771 ft) to the town of Valbona in the heart of the national park. At one point, you will see the Theth valley on one side and Valbona valley on the other side. The Valbona pass offers a spectacular view of the Balkan Peaks and “Bjeshket e Nemuna” or the Accursed Mountains. “Bjeshket e Nemuna” is a national park in Gjakova and Peja in Kosovo, near the borders of Albania and Montenegro.

This ancient mule track linking the tribal regions of Shala and Nikaj is one of the more rigorous hiking days (7-8 hrs), and unquestionably worth it for the incredible scenery.

Distance: 12.5 miles,   ↑ 3504 ft   ↓2789 f

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 3

Today we will start from the Valbona Valley and take the ‘unofficial’ but rewarding route through the Zla Kolata pass. It features beautiful views, big mountains, and the highest point in Montenegro. After the pass, we drop back down to the village of Ceremi where we will find our Guesthouse, enjoy a delicious meal, and spend the evening stretching and relaxing after a long day.

Distance: 8.7 miles,   ↑ 3937 ft   ↓3117

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 4

This stage of the Peaks of the Balkans takes us from the village of Ceremi to the high remote village of Doberdol. Much of the day is spent hiking through amazing old growth forests where we can find all kinds of berries, such as blueberries, blackberries and raspberries (depending on the season). After the forest we’ll be welcomed by amazing views. We will also pass the only National Reserve in Albania, which has brown bears and the last population of approximately 40 lynxes in the Balkans.

There are a couple small shepard’s huts along the way where we can enjoy a coffee and snack.

Distance: 9.6 miles,   ↑ 3379 ft   ↓1443 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 5

This will be a spectaular day! We will leave the high mountain village of Doberdol and summit the highest peak in Kosovo, and second highest peak in the Accursed Mountains - Gjervica peak (8714 ft).  From the top, we will see the Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps) on one side and the Sharr Mountains on the other. To add to the beauty of the day, we will pass many alpine lakes along the way with opportunities for a refreshing dip.

We will come down from Gjervica peak and instead of returning on the loop trail to Doberdol, we will stay at a Guesthouse along the trail and be set up for tomorrow’s hike to Milishevc.

Distance: 11.2 miles,   ↑ 3002 ft   ↓3000 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 6

Today we will be hiking between two shepherds’ villages in two different countries, however, they share the same culture and language. These two valleys have been connected by culture but disconnected by political borders. We begin the hike with a big hike uphill where we will reach a narrow pass on the border with Montengro. From here the views are spectacular. Then we will carry on to climb the 7762 ft Tromedja Peak (Three Border Peak).

Tromedja Peak allows you to stand in Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo at the same time!

After this monumental place, we will continue the hike following the border between Kosovo and Montenegro through peaceful views of endless meadows and Bogicevica National Park.

Onto another evening of gathering together, journaling,  stretching, and relaxing.

Distance: 9.8 miles,   ↑ 3000 ft   ↓3215 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 7

Today we will head out after a fresh breakfast, with our lunches packed, and have a leisurely day hiking across the border from Kosovo to the mountain hamlet of Babino Polje, Montenegro, literally meaning ‘Old Woman’s Field’. This is not the official ‘Peaks of the Balkans’ trail, but allows us to skip a large amount of asphalt road walking.

Distance: 7.8 miles,   ↑ 2759 ft  ↓ 2185 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 8

Today we start out from our Montenegrin guesthouse in Babino Polje to what is considered the most beautiful lake in all of Montenegro, Lake Hrid. This lake is a highlight of the trail and according to local legend forest fairies hide from humans and bathing in the Lake themselves. It is also said swimming in it’s water grants good health and good luck in marriage! To get there we will hike through dense pine forests scattered with lush green meadows and small streams.

After the lake we will descend to the town of Plav, the largest town we will have seen on the trail. This iconic town is located in the northeastern part of Montenegro, hidden in the foothills of the Mount Prokletije at the point where the river Lim flows into lake Plav. With approximately 3,500 inhabitants it is considered one of the most beautiful places in the country.

Distance: 12.4 miles,   ↑ 2362 ft  ↓4101 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 9

Today is a free day to do whatever you feel like! You might be in the mood to rest your body, take it easy, and soak in the atmosphere of this peaceful little town. Perhaps you’ll feel more movement and want to do a day hike to some local gems. Or perhaps exploring some cultural exhibits could be enriching, giving you a deeper understanding of the local heritage.

NOTE- There is an ATM available in the town of Plav

LAKE PLAV

One of the most beautiful natural attractions in Plav is the stunning Lake Plav. This crystal-clear lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, and its turquoise waters offer a tranquil and serene setting. You can rent a boat or kayak to explore the lake or simply take a stroll around the shoreline. There are also several restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a traditional Montenegrin meal while taking in the breathtaking views.

ALI PASHA’S SPRINGS

This natural wonder is located just outside of Plav and offers a picturesque setting that’s perfect for a day hike. The trail is well-marked and takes you through dense forests and past rushing streams until you reach the springs themselves. The water is said to have healing properties.

REDZEPAGIC TOWER

Built in 1671 by Hasan-beg Redzapagic, with three floors (two stone, one from wood). There are beautiful wooden balconies jutting out from the top of the tower to make the living space more spacious, the horses were kept on the ground floor. Inside you will find the local ethnographic collection and a guided tour is available with the owner who explains the different uses for each floor and how it was to live in the 17th century here.

PLAVSKI SPRINGS

Another natural attraction worth visiting is Plavski Springs. This is a great spot for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. The waters here are crystal clear and inviting, and the surrounding area is perfect for a leisurely stroll.

ALI PASHA MOSQUE

This beautiful mosque dates back to the 16th century and is considered one of the most important cultural and religious monuments in the region. The mosque is open to visitors throughout the day, and there are often guided tours available to help you learn more about its history.

ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM

If you love history and culture, the Plav Ethnographic Museum is a must-visit spot. Here, you can explore exhibits that showcase the traditional way of life in Montenegro, including exhibits on traditional clothing, crafts, and tools.

• Meals: B/-/-

Day 10

This day will start bright and early as it will be one of our longest- and definitely one of our most spectacular!

We will be crossing the Bor Peak which has been considered the most spectacular stage of the "Peaks of the Balkans" trail. We hike over the grassy ridge of the Bor towards the imposing towering stone wall that forms the border to Albania before descending into the valley of Vusanje. The view of the Grbaja massif and the Zla Kolata, the highest mountain in Montenegro, make this an incredible day.

We will ascend more than 3000 ft, and we will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views on the trail.

Distance: 17 miles,   ↑ 3776 ft  ↓4265 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 11

After a fulfilling breakfast we will start this morning with a car transfer to the Grebaje Valley, Montenegro- an area not to missed. It is not technically part of the ‘Peaks of the Balkans’ trail system, but it really should be!

From the drop off we will do a full day hike that gives the most awe inspiring views of the Accursed Mountain range and Karanfili Peaks, maintaining this breath taking backdrop for most of the day’s hike.

The hike will initially take us through forest for about 2.5 miles leading us to Mt Volušnica (6223 ft), followed by ascending two peaks- the magnificcent Mt Talijanka (6745 ft) and Mt Popadija. The higher we get the more spectacular the views.

When sunset is near and we must pull ourselves away, we will descend down back to the car, and return to our guesthouse in Vusanje for rest and reflection.

Distance: 6.2 miles,  ↑ 2624 ft  ↓2624 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

Day 12

The final day of our expedition ends on a high- one the best days of the whole trail!

We will start the day with a short 5 km car transfer over the asphalt road. Then we move on to hiking an unforgettable day through the gorgeous Ropojana Valley and across the border to the village of Theth, Albania- our starting point. Besides the stunning Ropojana Valley, we’ll also encounter Grlja Waterfall, Eye of the Grasshopper, and Runica meadow.

Once in Theth we will return to our original guest house to retrieve any luggage and personal items, meet our driver and continue to Shkoder for the evening. (approx. 2 hr drive)

We will gather together at our traditional Alabanian Guesthouse for our expedition finale, closing celebration, and fabulous dinner together. This will be the official end of our Balkan Alps expedition.

The following morning there will be optional transportation to the Tirana airport. (This must be booked ahead of time and will be one set time for everyone in the early morning).

Distance: 13 miles,  ↑ 3645 ft  ↓4714 ft

• Meals: B/L/D

TBD