This self-guided walking holiday provides the intrepid hiker with an opportunity to walk amongst the majestic and impenetrable jagged peaks of the Accursed Mountains and still retain a sense of being off-the-beaten-track.
- Take a boat trip across Komani Lake
- Hike across the eastern Albanian Alps
- Visit the Blood Feud Tower
- Hike across the Valbona Pass
- Trek the Accursed Mountains to Peja Pass
This trekking trip, in a part of Europe still undiscovered by many, provides an opportunity to explore this isolated part of unspoilt Northern Albania that is not unlike the more remote trekking regions of the Nepalese Himalayas with its contrasting dramatic peaks and gentle undulating valleys.
This hiking experience is a real adventure in a part of Europe that is little known outside the Balkans, with a mystery all of its own and seemingly untouched by the modern world.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1: Fly to Tirana & transfer to Shkodër
Arriving in Tirana, you then transfer to Shkodër, the historic capital and the gateway to the Albanian Alps, where you settle in to your accommodation.
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Day 2: Boat Ride on Komani Lake & introductory walk in Valbona National Park
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Drin Gorges before taking a ferry across picturesque Komani Lake with its tree-lined gorges.
Next, you journey into the highlands of the Valbona National Park and embark on an afternoon warm up walk - the perfect introduction to the Accursed Mountains. Take the walk at your own pace and stop at one of the many wild swimming spots along the way.
Walking distance: 7 km | Ascent: 250 m
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Day 3: Hike to Hamlet Kukaj in the eastern Albanian Alps
Today you hike to Kukaj, taking you to the ancient crossing at the Montenegro border and views of the Alp's highest peak, Jezerca (2,964 m). The trek passes wildflower meadows, quaint streams and beautiful mountain scenes.
Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 750 m | Descent: 700 m
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Day 4: Hike from Valbona to Theth
Hike across Valbona Pass (1,811 m) to the highest point of the journey and enjoy sweeping views of both national parks, followed by a gentle descent to Theth.
Walking distance: 15 km | Ascent: 750 m | Descent: 1,125 m
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Day 5: Hike The Peja Pass or Meadows above the Clouds
Choose either the hiking route to Peja Pass below Peak Jezerce (2,694 m), the Matterhorn of the Albanian Alps, or the panoramic trail to the Meadows of Denelli where you can see Nomadic shepherds and wildlife including otter, chamois and birds of prey.
Walking distance: 14 km | Ascent: 1,025 m | Descent: 1,025 m
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Day 6: Explore Theth - The heart of the Albanian Alps
Discover the full extent of Theth and its dramatic waterfalls and stone-aged terraces, as well as the Grunas Canyon that provides an idyllic backdrop.
Walking distance: 8 km | Ascent: 275 m | Descent: 275 m
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Day 7: Walk to Blue Eye – A magical hidden oasis
Hike through the canyon to the hidden oasis of 'Blue Eye' a crystal clear natural spring and enjoy a dip in the butterfly-surrounded waters. In the afternoon, you enjoy a scenic return drive to Tirana via Terthoria Pass and Lake Shkodra.
Walking distance: 10 km
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Day 8: Fly back to the UK
Price and Other Information
- Duration and price excluding international flights: 8 days from £769 per person
- Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 8 days from £1,139 per person
- Single room supplement: None
- Walking grade: Demanding
- Guiding: Self-Guided
- Max alt: 2,000m
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When to go: View Dates & Prices
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Route map:
View map 
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What’s included
- Hotel x 2 nights & guesthouse x 5 nights
- 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners
- Arrival airport transfer
Next Steps
Dates & Prices
Make a no obligation booking request, or enquire if you would like to ask us a question.
| Year | Daily Departures† | Price From (Exc. Flights) | Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| All prices are per person. † Daily departures subject to availability. | |||
| 2024 | From 1 Jun to 15 Oct | £769 | Book or Enquire |
If you can’t see the holiday or departure date that you are looking for please contact us. We may be in the process of finalising further departures and are often able to arrange a holiday for you according to your own requirements.
