Trek through some of Europe’s most dazzlingly beautiful terrain
There is a bewitching allure about these mountains at the heart of this far-flung region on the Balkan Peninsula. Think towering peaks and jagged ridges, Pristine valleys in Kosovo, meadows strewn with wild berries and scalloped bowls felted in green. Think forests, shards of limestone and the whoosh of wings as eagles sail overhead.
The 190-kilometre network of way marked paths link together communities and settlements in the three adjoining national parks around the border triangle where Kosovo, Albania and Montenegro all meet. It ‘opens minds and borders’ by bringing together groups such as mountain guides, innkeepers and tourism associations after past conflicts in the area. You can book your hiking tours with Vansa Wings travel agency at www.vansawings.com
Be the guests of gracious and open-hearted people
It is second nature in this region to regard the welcoming of guests as an honour and a joy. British guests and other countries guests are greeted with the special warmth in Albania and Montenegro, and specifically Kosovo where the UK is considered to have contributed hugely to the country becoming independent.
Walk freely between three countries in a part of Europe that few outsiders know
With a Peaks of the Balkans permit in your pocket, walk unimpeded between this trio of independent countries – Kosovo, Albania and Montenegro. Discover the historical, cultural, religious and linguistic nuances of each. At the same time, revel in the fact that collectively, this region still receives enough visitors to make it one of the best kept secrets anywhere.
Share in mountain culture and food
Stop at the guest houses of mountain farmers and shepherds and play a fleeting part in the local traditions which have been preserved in this region over centuries. Share in meals of home-cured meats and local cheeses and try the cornbread baked in wood-fired stone ovens. Wash it all down with wine trodden by the family at harvest time, then join in folk songs while the bottle of home-distilled plum or grapes raki is passed round.
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