The Balkan Spine Trek

⟺ 15 km ▲ 725 m ▼ 1,000 m ⧗ 6:30 h

Our day begins with a 45-minute scenic transfer through the dramatic Vanave Gorge, climbing a winding road into the Gora Highlands—a region steeped in history and culture. Once home to nomadic, Slavic-speaking Gorani communities, this unique borderland sits at the intersection of Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia.

Today’s hike kicks off near the picturesque Gorani village of Shishtavec. A steady ascent leads us to the rugged summit of Mt. Kallabak (2,174 m)—the first peak of the Sharr Massif, marking the meeting point of three nations.

From here, we follow a panoramic ridgeline, weaving between Albania and Kosovo, surrounded by endless alpine meadows and sweeping views. In the distance, a first glimpse of Mt. Korab (2,764 m)—the highest point in the region—builds excitement for the days ahead.

The trail then descends into a dramatic alpine valley, eventually reaching Cajë, a remote mountain village believed to be the highest year-round inhabited settlement in Albania.

We end the day in true local fashion: visiting the village “club”, the heart of every Albanian community, where we share a chat with the village elders and a warming glass of strong, homemade raki—a perfect end to our first full day on the High Scardus Trail.

⟺ 17 km ▲ 1,000 m ▼ 1,075 m ⧗ 7:45 h

After bidding farewell to our welcoming host family, we set off on a longer and more adventurous trek to the village of Radomirë. The trail leads us through fairytale-like alpine meadows, where vibrant carpets of wildflowers stretch out before us. With a bit of luck, we might even spot the rare Albanian lily or a herd of semi-wild horses grazing freely in the open landscape.

As we traverse a high ridgeline with gentle ascents and descents, the jagged peaks of Mt. Korab loom ever larger, pulling us closer into the heart of Korab-Koritnik Nature Park—a pristine and biodiverse area forming part of the Balkan Green Belt.

Our descent brings us into the surreal Field of Korabi, a karstic basin surrounded by mountains and dotted with abandoned two-man bunkers, sprouting from the earth like eerie concrete mushrooms—a reminder of Albania’s peculiar past.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Radomirë, a lively mountain village that serves as a base for hikers tackling Korab. Here, we settle into a simple but cozy pension for the next two nights, where warm hospitality, hearty food, and comfy sheepskin pads await tired feet.

⟺ 17 km ▲ 1,475 m ▼ 1,475 m ⧗ 8:30 h

Today marks the high point—literally—of our journey: the summit of Mt. Korab (2,764 m), the tallest peak in both Albania and North Macedonia.

We rise early for this challenging yet non-technical ascent, which will test our stamina with significant elevation gain. The trail winds through a landscape of contrasts: passing shepherd huts, crossing rocky outcrops, and wandering through soft alpine meadows bursting with life.

At the border saddle, we begin circling the peak, approaching from the quieter, more remote backside of Korab. The reward? A truly awe-inspiring perspective of the massive mountain, and—upon reaching the summit—panoramic views spanning two countries.

We celebrate this incredible milestone with a picnic at the top, soaking in the beauty and silence of the high mountains before starting our descent along a slightly different route back to Radomirë.

For those wanting a more relaxed day, it’s possible to shorten the hike or opt out entirely, enjoying a leisurely day in the village instead.

In the evening, we gather in the “oda”, a traditional guest room reserved for honored visitors. Sitting in a circle, as per local custom, we share stories, laughter, and reflections from our unforgettable days around Mt. Korab.

Tomorrow, our journey takes a new turn—into wilder and more remote terrain.

⟺ 16 km ▲ 1,025 m ▼ 575 m ⧗ 7:00 h

We leave behind the comforts of Radomirë and venture deeper into the highlands, following an old border patrol route that once marked Albania’s most tightly guarded frontier.

As we climb, we pass the haunting remains of the “brezi i butë”—a narrow sand strip once used to detect human footprints. Today, this serene trail offers sweeping alpine views, but in Albania’s communist era, it was a zone of fear, where trespassers risked death or forced labor, and even their families weren’t spared.

Reaching the highest point of today’s route, we’re rewarded with panoramic views of a broad glacial valley, where thousands of sheep roam freely beneath vast skies. A stop at a tranquil glacial lake offers the perfect opportunity to soak your feet in icy, refreshing water before the final stretch of our hike.

Tonight, we experience true mountain simplicity: hosted by the Kaloshi shepherd clan at Ladies Pasture (1,770 m). Our shelter is a humble wooden hut, without electricity, phone signal, or showers—but rich in authentic hospitality and timeless tradition.

We’re welcomed into the rhythms of shepherd life, with a chance to try milking a sheep, share stories, and warm ourselves around a bonfire beneath a star-filled sky—a night of rare connection with nature, tradition, and each other.

⟺ 15 km ▲ 800 m ▼ 1,550 m ⧗ 8:00 h

We say goodbye to the shepherds and the remote alpine world we’ve shared—a place separated by time and towering mountains. While we’ve admired the beauty and simplicity of their life, today we also carry a deeper appreciation for its hardships.

Our trail leads up an old mule path toward the Grama Pass (2,300 m), where we’re greeted with sweeping 360° views of the surrounding peaks. Turning back, we catch our final glimpse of Mt. Korab and the hidden Grama Lake—a stirring reminder of how far we’ve come, both in distance and experience.

Then comes a challenging descent: zigzagging down a steep, rocky former border patrol path. From below, looking back at the massive wall we’ve just tackled feels almost surreal.

As we ease along the rim of the valley, high above a cluster of villages, the scenery softens. We pass through the mountain pastures of Rabdisht, where the view opens to a patchwork of red-tiled roofs and smoke curling gently from chimneys—a welcome sign of our return to civilization.

Finally, we descend into the cobbled alleys of Rabdisht, arriving at our charming guesthouse, where our warm hosts greet us with a toast—either firewater or homemade juice—in their idyllic garden, bringing this long, soul-stirring day to a perfect close.

⟺ 12 km ▲ 700 m ▼ 750 m ⧗ 5:15 h

Today’s hike offers a gentle farewell to the mountains, as we transition from the raw beauty of the highlands to the rhythm of modern life. Our path winds through the hills and pastures surrounding the picturesque villages of Dibra, which we gazed upon from above just a day earlier.

These villages—Zagrad, Cerjan, and Bellovë—tell a quiet story of change. Once thriving communities, they’ve been left behind due to limited road access and migration of youth seeking opportunity elsewhere. But here, self-sufficiency remains strong, and our encounters with locals provide insight into a way of life rooted in tradition. Don’t be surprised if we’re invited in for a coffee and a warm chat along the way.

By early afternoon, we leave the countryside behind and transfer by car to Tirana, Albania’s vibrant and ever-evolving capital. The contrast is striking—from shepherd trails to city streets.

As daylight fades, we take a leisurely stroll along the main boulevard, uncovering the layers of history and influence that have shaped the city into what it is today. Over our final dinner together, we reflect on the journey—the peaks climbed, stories shared, and bonds formed on the Balkans’ youngest long-distance trail.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to soak up the last moments in Tirana. Enjoy a slow morning with a fresh espresso at a charming café, watching the city come to life, or wander through the colorful stalls of the “New Bazaar” to pick up local delicacies and souvenirs.

For those interested in Albania’s recent past, the “House of Leaves” and “BunkArt 2”—two of the capital’s most thought-provoking museums—are just a 5-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square.

The group airport transfer departs at 10:00 AM.

If you prefer a later departure, a taxi to the airport costs around 20€ and can be arranged anytime.

Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable adventure!
We hope the High Scardus Trail leaves you with lasting memories of wild landscapes, warm hospitality, and a deeper connection to the Balkans.

Feeling inspired? Ask us about trip extensions—whether you're after more mountain thrills, cultural gems in Albania’s historic towns, or a relaxing beach escape.
Albania truly has it all—just waiting to be explored. 🌄🌊🍷