Your guide will welcome you at the airport in Tirana or Podgorica. During the transfer to the hotel close to Shkodra’s centre, (90 minutes) you can gather first impressions. If the weather allows it you have the choice to swim at the Balkans’ biggest lake or visit the Rozafa Castle. In the city, the cafés burst with people who flock for a stroll on the pedestrian area. Lined with bourgeoisie townhouses, a reminder of the city’s rich past, it has a certain Italian atmosphere to it. When daylight fades you can choose between restaurants that offer carefully crafted traditional meals.

You start your hike to Kukaj, an isolated hamlet where only two families reside, below bunkers that once protected the border and are now scattered in the riverbed. At 2040 m a weathered border pyramid is a reminder of the isolation Albania once endured, from here views reach to the most dramatic parts of Montenegrin Prokletije. Catching the last glimpse at the Alps highest peak Jezerca (2 694 m) you descent on a different path to another guesthouse.

Walking for the day: 12 km, 5-6 hrs, ↑750m ↓700m

Overnight in a  guesthouse  (private ensuite)

Accompanied by a local and a mule that carries your load you set out for the transfer hike across Valbona Pass (1811 m) – another highlight and the highest point of your journey. After passing the village Rragam few steep segments need to be tackled. You can pause regularly near springs and on colourful meadows to enjoy the splendid views. Enjoy the picturesque landscape during a lunch break ahead of the descent to Theth. The fairy-tale beech forest provides cover from the sun in the afternoon for you. By the time the woods thin out Mt. Arapi (2217 m) is visible and soon the houses of the village are reached. Spread below are the different hamlets. On a broad path, you enter another inviting guesthouse in the centre of the village.

Walking for the day: 15 km, 6-7 hrs, ↑750m ↓1,125m

Overnight at Guesthouse Theth / private ensuite (Bujtina Polia)

This morning, after breakfast, you will start your walking. The path leads you to the heart of the Bjelasica Mountain. The hiking is mostly uphill and on pastures and grassland. At the end of your invigorating first hike, you’ll arrive at the Katuns or Shepherds’ huts, which are traditional mountain houses found all over Northern Montenegro. Traditionally, rural farming families close their village homes and move to these simple cottages during the summer months. Life in the katuns is rustic and simple and you will have a chance to feel the real rural life of the Montenegrins.

Walking for the day: 16 km, 6-7 hrs, ↑950m ↓250m

Overnight in the traditional mountain hut Katun Vranjak (private rooms/huts but shared facilities!)

During this day’s walk, you will hike the gentle green slopes and summits of Bjelasica. This is a circular walk heading to Crna Glava (2139 m), the peak of Bjelasica, passing by two lovely mountain lakes. There are excellent views to the shepherds’ villages below your trail as well as to the surrounding mountains. On the way back you will have time to take a short break and taste the crystal clear water from the spring of the Biogradska river which is the main water supply for Biogradsko lake.

Walking for the day: 16 km, 6-7 hrs, ↑700m ↓750m

Overnight in the traditional mountain hut Katun Vranjak (private rooms/huts but shared facilities!)

The last circular walk by the three Durmitor lakes is a relaxing one, with an optional rest/swim in Crno Jezero (the Black Lake). The terrain is flat, and a path leads through a fir and pine forest. During this hike you are going to see Barno, Zminje and Crno lakes, Barno being the smallest and Crno the biggest. Return to your accommodation.

Walking for the day: 12 km, 4-5 hrs, ↑150m ↓150m

Accommodation: Local guesthouse (optional upgrade to 4* hotel)

Breakfast in hotel. Transfer to the airport.