High Scardus Trail

Starting from Kukes, a 45-minute transfer takes you through the Vanave Gorge and up a winding road into the Gora highlands. Near Shishtavec, a gradual ascent leads to the rocky outcrop of Mt. Kallabak (2,174 m), the first peak of the Sharr Massif, with views toward “The Pope’s Hat” at the meeting point of three borders. The route continues through wide open meadows along a panoramic ridgeline, crossing between Albania and Kosovo, with a distant glimpse of Mt. Korab (2,764 m). Descending into a deep alpine valley, you reach the remote village of Caje, possibly Albania’s highest year-round settlement. Here, a visit to the local “club” offers the chance for a chat with the elders and a glass of raki. This marks the completion of the first stage of the High Scardus Trail.

Distance: 13-16 km
Climb: 550-850 meters
Overnight: Caje

Waving goodbye to your hosts, you leave the simple homestay and begin the longer hike toward the village of Radomire. The route leads across alpine meadows and along a high ridgeline with gentle ascents and descents, while the rocky peaks of Korab dominate the horizon. As you approach the heart of the Korab-Koritnik Nature Park, new views open over the Field of Korab, a wide karst depression marked by old border bunkers. Descending from the ridge, you reach Radomire, a larger village at the base of Mt. Korab. Settle into the simple pension for the next two nights and enjoy the surrounding panorama.

Distance: 17 km
Climb: 1000 meters
Overnight: Radomire

Today begins early as you set out for Mt. Korab (2,764 m), the highest peak of Albania and North Macedonia. The long, challenging hike crosses mixed terrain of rocky sections, meadows and shepherd huts. From the border saddle, the trail loops behind the mountain and leads to the summit, where you can enjoy a picnic with wide-ranging views over both countries. On the descent, an alternative return route may be used to reach Radomire. The ascent is optional — you can complete a shorter circuit, walk part of the summit route, or spend the day at leisure in the village. In the evening, you may relax in the traditional “Oda,” a guest room typical of highland houses.

Distance: 17 km
Climb: 1475 meters
Overnight: Radomire

Leave your base for the last two nights and head back into the highlands. The walk follows an old military patrol route along the border, where the “brezi i bute,” a sand strip to detect footsteps, can be seen. From today’s high point, enjoy views over the glacial-shaped valley and flocks of grazing sheep. Stop by the lake to dip your feet into the cold water. Tonight, the Kaloshi shepherds welcome you to their wooden huts on the “Ladies Pasture” at 1,770 m. There is no phone signal or electricity, but you can experience their daily life, try milking a sheep, and enjoy the night sky with a bonfire before sleep.

Distance: 11-13,5 km
Climb: 765-975 meters
Overnight: Grama

Parting from the shepherds and their secluded alpine world, you follow a mule path up to Grama Pass (2,300 m), enjoying sweeping 360° views of the surrounding peaks. Behind you, Korab and Grama Lake mark the long journey you've made, giving strength for the descent. Zig-zag down the old border patrol path, then circle along the valley rim and above the scattered villages below, soaking in the panorama. Approaching Rabdisht, the scattered red-tiled roofs and smoke from chimneys signal your return to civilization. Once down the cobbled alleys, you reach the guesthouse, where the hosts welcome you with a toast of firewater or homemade juice in their idyllic apple-tree garden.

Distance: 15-18 km
Climb: 775-800 meters
Overnight: Rabdisht

Today's hike through the villages of Dibra provides a transition from the alpine heights to city life. The trail crosses hills and pastures, linking the villages you glimpsed from above yesterday. Visiting Zagrad, Cerjan, and Bellove, you see traditional stone houses and meet locals, often invited in for a coffee. In the early afternoon, a transfer takes you from Bellove via Peshkopi to Tirana. Arriving in the capital, enjoy an evening stroll along the main boulevard and choose a restaurant for your final dinner.

Distance: 12,5 km
Climb: 700 meters
Overnight: Tirana

If time allows, take a stroll through Tirana’s lively streets. Enjoy an espresso in a cozy café, explore the vibrant “New Bazaar,” or visit “Bunk’Art 2” and “The House of Leaves” to learn about Albania’s communist past. Your journey concludes with a short transfer to the airport — farewell from the land of warm hospitality, majestic mountains, and sunlit beaches.