Ski touring in the Peaks of the Balkans

Ski Touring Adventure Through Kosovo, Montenegro & Albania

Discover a unique winter ski touring journey across the Balkans, combining the rugged Sharr Mountains with the iconic Peaks of the Balkans. From remote alpine terrain to untouched snowy landscapes, this adventure crosses diverse mountain ranges and reveals the wild beauty of the region.

HIGHLIGHTS

Pristine Alpine Landscapes – Untouched mountain scenery with open ridges, deep valleys, and snow-covered peaks. Ideal for ski touring and hiking.
Virgin mountains – Trails that are not crowded with tourists and the views are not interrupted by ski lifts or other man-made structures.
Local food – Locally cooked specialties based on meat, vegetables, and dairy products.
Hospitality – People in this region have not seen a large number of tourists; they are happy to welcome any traveler with sincerity and warmth.

Before you continue you have to know:

Balkan Natural Adventure has a five-star rating from clients — and we intend to keep it that way.

INTRODUCTION

Part of this tour was tested in winter 2024 with two IFMGA guides, media, and clients. The terrain was carefully selected to offer a diverse experience: the trail begins in the impressive Sharr Mountains, crossing remote valleys and snow-covered alpine terrain before continuing into the iconic Peaks of the Balkans region. It combines open terrain, sheltered forest sections for challenging weather, and a variety of remote guesthouses and local experiences. The itinerary is of medium difficulty, with daily ascents of up to 1,000 meters. In good conditions, it is possible to cross all three countries in one day and summit Kosovo’s highest peak at 2,656 meters.

We stay in 4 nights in hotels and 3 nights in guesthouses, all carefully selected to balance comfort and authentic mountain experience. Luggage transport is provided every two days for added convenience. The itinerary remains of medium difficulty, with up to 800–1000 meters of ascent per day, making it suitable for fit ski tourers with off-piste experience. Despite their remote feel, the mountains are easily accessible within 2–3 hours’ flight from most EU capitals, with access via Prishtina, Podgorica, Skopje, and Tirana airports.

Read the story from the trip from Katy Dartford

PACKAGE INCLUDES

- Guide: 7 days
- Transfers as preset on the itinerary
- Accommodation: 7 nights in hotel and guesthouses
- Meals: 1^st day dinner; 2^nd to 7^th day three meals; 8^th day breakfast
- Border Crossing Permits
- Luggage transfer every 2 days
- Entrance fees for the National Parks

PACKAGE EXCLUDES

- Flight tickets
- Insurance should be secured by the travelers
- Ski touring gear rental (we do not provide gear, so please bring all your own equipment)

PRICE: Euro 1900 per person; Three pax. to guarantee

Date: February 13 – 20, 2027

Si Touring Kosovo, Albania & Montenegro

Day 1: Arrival at Prishtina. Group transfer to Prevalla

Arrive at Prishtina Airport and transfer to Prevalla. Depending on your arrival time, a short climb in the surrounding mountains can be arranged to stretch your legs and enjoy your first glimpse of the highlands.

Day 2: Ski Touring in Prevalla – Konjusha Peak

The tour begins in Prevalla, a quiet mountain area offering ski touring as its main activity.

Unlike traditional ski resorts, Prevalla is peaceful and largely untouched, with few people and no visible ski infrastructure – perfect for those seeking pristine natural panoramas.

Start at 1,530 m and ascend to Konjusha Peak (2,571 m). The route takes you through open alpine fields with clear views of the surrounding peaks. On the return, skiers can choose open slopes or explore woodland sections for a more technical experience.

Day 3: Ski Touring in Prevalla – Bistra Peak

Located between Brezovica and the city of Prizren, Bistra Peak (2,651 m) is part of the mountain ranges that separate Kosovo and North Macedonia, and it can be climbed from both sides. It is a challenging, multi-peak tour, neighbouring Konjusha and Guzhbaba peaks.

Day 4: Transfer Prevalla – Zalli Rupes. Ski Touring to Gacaferi Guesthouse

After approximately a 2.5-hour transfer from Prevalla to Deçan Gorge, the tour begins toward Gacaferi Mountain Guesthouse.

Gacaferi Guest House is the sole guesthouse in the region and offers good basic conditions, including warm water, internet, and locally cooked food.

Day 5: Ski Touring Three Border Peak – Babino Polje

Maja e Trekufinit (Three Border Peak) marks the point where Kosovo, Montenegro, and Albania meet. Each side of the peak offers a different slope, making it a unique playground for skiing, with the thrill of crossing three countries. The peak stands at 2,300 meters. From here, the route descends to Babino Polje, Montenegro. In case there is not enough snow at the end of the trail, a transfer from Bogićevica to the guesthouse in Babino Polje will be arranged. This will shorten the route by approximately 4 kilometres.

Day 6: Ski Touring Babino Polje – Doberdol through the Wolf Peak

This ski tour links Babino Polje with the remote Doberdol valley, crossing the highlands of the Prokletije/Bogićevica range. The route is about 12 km, with 720 m of climbing and 510 m of descent, mostly over gentle alpine terrain and open ridges with wide mountain views. Depending on snow conditions, the tour may start near Bogićevica, reducing the distance to around 8 km by arranging a shortcut transfer. A short side trip to the Three Border Peak (2,366 m) offers spectacular panoramas before descending into Doberdol.

Day 7: Ski Touring Doberdol – Maja e Kocit – Dashi Lake – Ali Peja Pass – Zalli Rupes. Transfer to Pejë

Your ski tour starts at Guesthouse Doberdol (1,740 m) in the heart of the Accursed Mountains. After breakfast and gear check, we begin ascending on skis through pristine alpine landscapes.

Option 1 – via Koci Peak (recommended):

Climb Koci Peak for panoramic views, including the Gashi River, one of Albania’s most protected and wild areas. From there, descend toward Doberdol Pass, then make a gentle ascent to Dashi Lake before continuing up to Ali Qela Pass (2,275 m), the Kosovo–Albania border. An optional short climb to Maja e Bardhë (2,426 m) rewards you with stunning views of Mount Gjeravica and the surrounding highlands. The day concludes with a long descent into Zalli i Rupes. Total distance: 11.7 km.

Option 2 – Direct Route via Ali Qela Pass:

A shorter route goes straight to Ali Qela Pass, skipping Koci Peak. This route also offers beautiful scenery and a satisfying descent into Zalli i Rupes. Total distance: 9.2 km.

Day 8: Departure Day

The tour ends in Peja after breakfast. No transfer to the airport is included on this day, however, we are happy to assist with arranging a private transfer or provide recommendations for your onward travel if needed.