Hiking the Balkans: Via Dinarica

Zdravo! Welcome to Croatia. This Mediterranean paradise might be best-known for its island-dotted coastline, but it’s also filled with historic streets and leafy green mountains. Your trip starts in the port hub of Split, lapped by the Adriatic Sea, with local produce stalls, cobblestone lanes and ancient buildings. You’ll kick off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening, where you’ll get to know your new travel companions and local leader. If you arrive early, maybe wander along the waterfront, grab a fresh gelato and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Or, head to the Old Town, which has ancient Roman architecture juxtaposed against modern museums, shops, and homes.

The morning is yours to spend as you wish – maybe ask your leader for some good lunch spots before you hit the road to neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina. Stop off at Blidinje, where you’ll have some free time to explore before the hiking begins in the late afternoon. This nature park is in the heart of the Dinaric Alps, so you’re sure to find many like-minded hikers enjoying the green space. Start your trek at the Vitlenica point and hike through to Hajducka Vrata (Outlaw’s Gate). A certified mountain guide and your leader will be there to guide you along the path as the sun sets, to a scenic platea on Cvrsnica Mountain where you can take a break. One of the highlights of this trek is that night begins to fall just as you finish the walk – giving you a special opportunity to stargaze from the Alps! Make sure you pack a head lamp (and spare batteries) and walking poles for extra support. (B)

Relax with a free morning in Blidinje before you travel to Sarajevo – Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital. The city gained global attention with the assassination of Franz Ferdinand and his wife, which sparked World War I. Then, in the early 90s, it was held under siege for almost four years during the Balkan War. You’ll have the day to explore the city at your own pace, so consider diving into its history at the Sarajevo Museum or the National Museum. Or, if you want to get back into nature, you can visit Ilidza Park and Springs – this spot has been known for its tranquility since the Ottoman period. You might also like to explore the Old Town, sip a local Bosnian coffee, walk across the famous Latin Bridge, or look for the Sarajevo roses (memorials made from the marks on the pavement where mortar shells exploded during the 90s). (B)

You’ll be up bright and early this morning to hit the road toward the village of Umoljani where our next hike, in Bjelašnica Mountain area, will kick off. With more than 40km of ski slopes in this area, Bjelašnica Mountain hosted the Winter Olympics in 1984 which were deemed ‘the best in history’ by the International Olympic Committee. So, it’s safe to say today’s terrain is the kind of take-your-breath-away alpine scenery you could only dream of. Your hike will be along a loop trail that crosses through the highest and most remote village in Bosnia – Lukomir. You’ll get the opportunity to hang out with the locals here; you’ll share lunch, laughs, local cheese and, of course, Bosnian coffee. Coffee-lovers assemble; the rich (exceptionally strong), chocolatey brew is rather addictive and to make things even sweeter – it's often served with a portion of Turkish Delight. This village is particularly charming; at 1,500m above sea level, it’s unique for its centuries old stone houses and traditional dress. You’ll discover fascinating history, culture and architecture during your pitstop here. After some time learning more about local life, you’ll hike to our overnight location at Umoljani village. (B/L)

Soak up the beauty of Umoljani at breakfast, as you’ll drive even higher up today, towards your next temporary home – Zabljak, the main town within Durmitor National Park. Located on the mountain of Durmitor, Zabljak is the highest city in the Balkans, with an altitude of 1456 m – just think of that view! The rest of the day is yours to settle in as you wish. Maybe get your bearings with a leisurely walk or swim in the glacial lakes. Make sure you ask your local leader for any restaurant recommendations for dinner. (B)

Fuel up on a hearty breakfast this morning, as you'll hit the mountains today! Strap on your boots and start the hike from the main entrance of Durmitor National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the national park is made up of mountains traversed by rivers and dotted with glacial lakes. Since Durmitor National Park is so vast and beautiful, there are plenty of trail options for today’s hike. Your leader will take you on one that caters to the group’s personal tastes and fitness levels – they'll expertly mix and match the trails to create an epic day of hiking that everyone enjoys. One thing is certain – lakes, pine forests and alpine air are guaranteed for any trail combination. Your final climb of the day will get your heart rate up and lead you to one of the best viewpoints overlooking Tara Canyon. Once you reach the top, rest, relax and soak up those views – you've earned it! (B)

Set out bright and early this morning for Vusinje – a small village on the border of Montenegro and Albania. From here, you’ll hike towards Karanflii peaks which stand proudly over Grbaja Valley below. You’ll walk along the ridge of the mountains and while the distance isn’t as far as previous days, the elevation gain is significant – pack your walking poles to help you out! The trail winds around Prokletije Mountain and includes Popadija and Talijanka peaks with a front row view of the towering Karanfili peaks in the distance. Sit down to a packed lunch with your fellow adventurers and enjoy the view before heading to your accommodation in Gusinje in the afternoon. (B/L)

Another day, another country to explore. You’ll cross the border into Albania today – the fourth and final country on this Balkan hiking adventure. Stop in Theth – one of the wonders in the Albanian Alps, declared a Protected Historic Center by the Albanian Government. With narrow country roads, cows and horses in wooden fenced fields and small stone buildings, Theth is like a fairytale. As this village is your home for the night, settle in and explore your surroundings – maybe even swim in the Blue Eye of Theth or Grunasi Waterfall if the sun is out! (B/D)

After a relaxing day in Theth yesterday, it’s time to lace up your walking shoes for your final hike – this time on the Valbona-Theth trail. This is a signature hike in the region – recognised for the rewarding vistas that sprawl far across the pine-dotted valley below and snow-capped Albanian Alps above. After a day on your feet, retire to your guesthouse in Valbona Valley where you’ll be treated to an authentic Albanian dinner with your group. Put your feet up and reflect on all the hiking you’ve achieved in the last week. (B/L)

Head on a scenic private boat ride to Koman after breakfast. Surrounded by mountains that seem to dive directly into the turquoise water of the lake, the cruise will be just as much about the journey as the destination. It’s a nice opportunity to rest your legs and sit back to enjoy one of Mother Nature’s best shows. Halfway through, your boat will stop for some refreshments and an opportunity to swim. Once the boat docks in Koman, you’ll be taken to Tirana by minibus. When you arrive, your leader will take you on a short orientation walk around the country’s capital. You’ll have the evening at your leisure – you might like to head to a local restaurant to enjoy one final dinner with your newfound travel friends. Be sure to ask your leader for the best recommendations. (B)

Your Balkan hiking adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to extend your stay in Tirana, just get in touch with your booking agent to organise additional accommodation ahead of time. (B)