The Peaks of the Balkans Trail

Publisher: Cicerone Press Limited

This guide describes the Peaks of the Balkans Trail, a 192km circular route through the spectacularly wild and rugged borderlands of Montenegro, Albania and Kosovo in Europe, with around a third of the trek lying in each country. Developed to promote sustainable local tourism and transcend political borders, it winds its way through the spectacular scenery of the Prokletije mountains, taking in high passes and remote valleys. Since its launch, the trail's popularity has continued to rise: however, despite increasing visitor numbers, the area – off-limits to foreigners until comparatively recently – remains underdeveloped and unspoilt.

The route can be hiked in around two weeks: it is presented in 10 daily stages and the guide also includes suggestions for excursions to bag neighbouring peaks and visit local sites of interest. While a moderate level of fitness is assumed, the walking itself is not difficult and makes use of existing paths and tracks. Food and accommodation are offered in traditional guesthouses in villages that often feel like somewhere time forgot.

Offering comprehensive advice on travel, permits and safety and details of local facilities, services and accommodation, the guide contains all the information needed to plan a successful trip. Clear route description is illustrated with 1:50,000 mapping, and a short summary of the terrain and any particular difficulties is given at the beginning of each stage. Background information on geology, geography and history is also provided, as well as a useful glossary of words and phrases in Montenegrin and Albanian.

Rudolf Abraham is an award-winning travel writer and photographer specialising in Croatia and eastern Europe. He is the author of eight books (five of them on Croatia) and has contributed to over a dozen more, and his work is published widely in magazines. He first visited Croatia in 1998, lived in Zagreb for two years, and continues to spend several weeks a year in his favourite country in Europe.