Hike the Albanian Alps

Explore the remote Albanian Alps on this eight-day hiking adventure, where each trail rewards you with raw beauty and cultural immersion. Hike the Volusnica ridge for views of Karanfili peak, cross borders from Prokletije to Theth to tackle the legendary Theth to Valbone trail (accessible only on foot), then challenge yourself with the ascent to Rosni Peak. Every step leads to village stays where you can connect with the locals and tuck into farm-fresh lunches and traditional barbecue dinners. Covering up to 18 km per day, this is a challenging but rewarding hike through Albania that features scenery and culture.

Day 1: Tirana
Pershendetje! Welcome to the Albanian Alps. Your adventures starts in Tirana – the capital of Albania known for its bustling mosque, citadels and Ottoman architecture. You’ll kick off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll get to know your new travel companions and local leader. If you arrive early, maybe explore Skanderbeg Square, ride the Dajti Ekspres cable car, or visit the Bunk’Art museum – an underground Cold War bunker turned art and history exhibit. Later his evening, maybe walk through the colourful Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar) for local food and find a place to eat dinner with your group.
Day 2: Gusinje
Today, you’ll leave Tirana and begin your journey north through the Albanian countryside. Your first stop is the beautiful Mrizi & Zanave Agrotourism farm, where you’ll sit down for a delicious Albanian-style brunch. Everything you’ll taste is organic and either produced right on the farm or sourced from the surrounding area. After lunch, continue your drive toward Montenegro, taking in scenic views as the landscape shifts from rolling hills to dramatic mountain ranges. You’ll arrive at your accommodation in Gusinje in the afternoon, where the rest of your evening is yours to enjoy. Maybe take time to explore the property or simply unwind in the fresh mountain air as you settle into the peaceful surroundings.
Day 3: Gusinje - Volusnica
Start your morning with a guided hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Prokletije National Park. You’ll follow the Volusnica trail, – a scenic route along the ridge of the Talijanka and Popadija peaks, with views of Karanfili peak. After a day on the trails, head back to your accommodation in Gusinje where a traditional evening barbecue awaits. It’s the perfect chance to relax, enjoy local flavours and reflect on the day’s adventure surrounded by nature.
Day 4: Theth - Prokletije hike
This morning, set out on a scenic hike from Prokletije to Theth, crossing the border from Montenegro into Albania on foot. The trail takes you through alpine landscapes, with rugged peaks and open meadows. This cross-border hike offers an opportunity to walk between two countries while fully immersed in nature. Your luggage will be transferred separately to your accommodation. After a full day on the trail, settle into your accommodation in the local village of Theth.
Day 5: Valbone - Accursed Mountains
Embark on the most famous hike in the Albanian Alps. This guided hike will take you from Theth to Valbona through the heart of the Accursed Mountains, crossing two national parks and offering some of the most authentic landscapes in northern Albania. What makes this hike so special is its remoteness. The only way to travel between Theth and Valbona is on foot, as no road connects the two villages. Along the way, you’ll pass alpine meadows, rugged peaks and a high mountain pass with sweeping views in every direction. Donkeys will carry your luggage to your accommodation. Tonight, you’ll stay in the mountain village of Valbona.
Day 6: Valbone - Rosni Peak
Today, you’ll set out on a guided hike to Rosni Peak – one of the most challenging yet rewarding hikes of the journey. The trail begins by passing scattered mountain houses and quiet campsites, eventually leading into the cool, shaded paths of a dense forest. As you gain elevation, sweeping views open beneath your feet. This path is scenic and has a mixture of everything the alps have to offer – flora, fauna, woodland and meadows. The final push to the summit is steep but well worth the effort, offering spectacular panoramic views that stretch across the Albanian Alps. You will spend the night in Valbone.
Day 7: Tirana
Start the day with a transfer to Fierza, where you’ll board a boat and ride across the Komani Lake towards Koman. Along the journey, stop at Neomalsore Agrotourism for a traditional Albanian lunch. This family-run farm is known for its warm hospitality and locally sourced, home-cooked meals that showcase the flavors of the north. After lunch, continue your journey with a private transfer from Koman back to Tirana where you’ll spend the night.
Day 8: Tirana
With no activities planned after breakfast, you’re free to leave at any time. If you’d like to extend your stay in Tirana, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.