Walking the High Scardus Trail (Guided)

Walking the High Scardus Trail (Guided)

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8 Days From

$1263

Walking the High Scardus Trail (Guided)

8 Days Starting and ending in Tirana, Albania

Visiting: Kukes, Korab-Koritnik Nature Park, Mount Korab, Radomire, Rabdisht, Tirana

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

792

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 8

Physical rating:

Challenging

Activities:

Trekking, Walking

From: $1263

NB: Prices correct on 05-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Albania with the "Walking the High Scardus Trail" guided tour. This adventure begins in Tirana, where you'll explore the city before heading to the picturesque town of Kukes. Traverse the stunning landscapes of the Gora highlands, with breathtaking views of Mount Gjallica and the Sharr Massif. Experience the warmth of Albanian hospitality with homestays in charming villages like Caje and Radomire. Challenge yourself with an optional climb of Mount Korab, the highest peak in Albania and North Macedonia. Discover the serene beauty of Korab-Koritnik Nature Park and the historical Grama Pass. As you journey through traditional villages, immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the tranquility of the highlands. Conclude your adventure back in Tirana, with time to explore the vibrant capital before your departure. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, promising an enriching experience in the heart of the Balkans.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic town of Kukes, known for its stunning views of Mount Gjallica and its role in sheltering Kosovar refugees.

  • Hike through the Vanave Gorge and the Gora highlands, with breathtaking views of the Sharr Massif and Mount Korab.

  • Experience the biodiversity of Korab-Koritnik Nature Park, with opportunities to spot the endemic Albanian Lily and semi-wild horses.

  • Climb Mount Korab, the highest peak in both Albania and North Macedonia, for panoramic views from the summit.

  • Stay with local shepherds in the highlands, experiencing traditional life and possibly milking a sheep.

  • Cross the scenic Grama Pass with views of Mount Korab and Grama Lake, descending to the village of Rabdisht.

  • Visit the picturesque villages of Dibra, exploring traditional stone houses and meeting local people.

  • Discover Tirana's vibrant culture, with opportunities to explore its streets, visit historical sites, and enjoy local cuisine.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival In Albania/Kukes

Location: Kukes

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Kukes

Meals Included: Dinner

We meet at the airport or in Tirana for a quick walking tour. You are transferred to Kukes (2h 30mins), a small town in north-eastern Albania, overlooking the confluence of Kosovo’s White and North Macedonia’s Black Drin Rivers. Following the Kosovo conflict in 1999, the town was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for welcoming and sheltering 450,000 Kosovar refugees fleeing the war. The views of Mount Gjallica (2,489m) are a foretaste of what is to come. Complimentary group transfer from Tirana to Kukes – two options available: Option 1: 14.00 Tirana city centre (near Skanderbeg Square / behind Opera House) Option 2: 15.00 Tirana airport (minibus parking outside Arrivals) Accommodation in Kukes

Day 2 : From Kukes To Caje 15Km

Location: Kukes

Accommodation Name: Homestay in Caje

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Starting from Kukes, a 45mins transfer takes you through Vanave Gorge into the Gora (highlands). Today’s hike starts near the Gorani village of Shishtavec, from where a gradual ascent takes you to the rocky outcrop of Mount. Kallabak (2,174m) with your first glimpse of the Sharr Massif. Continue along a ridge traversing elevated meadows, crisscrossing the border between Albania and Kosovo, with sightings of Mount Korab (2,764m). Descending into the valley, you reach Caje, possibly Albania’s highest year-round inhabited settlement where you are welcomed into a wonderful homestay. Walking for the day: 15km, 6-7h, ↑725m ↓1000m

Day 3 : From Caje To Radomire 17Km

Location: Korab-Koritnik Nature Park

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Radomire

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today starts with a longer hike to the larger village of Radomire, traversing flower-filled meadows in season. With some luck, the endemic Albanian Lily or herds of semi-wild horses can be spotted. Continue along a ridge, again with Mount Korab in the distance horizon. Continue on through the biodiverse beauty of Korab-Koritnik Nature Park bringing your day to a close in Radomire village, where you spend the next two nights. Walking for the day: 17km, 8h, ↑1000m ↓1075m

Day 4 : Climb Mount Korab 17Km

Location: Mount Korab

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Radomire

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early start today in order to climb Mount Korab (2,764m), the highest peak in both Albania and North Macedonia. It is a long and demanding day but with no technical climbing, passing shepherd huts, and negotiating both rocky stretches and soft alpine meadows. Reaching the saddle at the border with North Macedonia, the path circles the peak and approaches it from the rear, offering another perspective of the rocky giant. Enjoy your picnic and the breathtaking, wide-ranging views from Albania and North Macedonia’s rooftop. The descent follows a slightly different route back to Radomire.

Please note: the ascent of Mount Korab is optional, you may complete a shorter circuit or only part of the summit return hike – alternatively, spend the day at leisure around the village.

Walking for the day: 17km, 10h, ↑1475m ↓1475m

Day 5 : From Radomire To Highlands 16Km

Location: Radomire

Accommodation Name: Shepherds Hut in the highlands

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you head back into the highlands following an old military patrol route along the border, where you spot the brezi i bute, a stretch of sand created to detect footsteps. Sadly, these peaceful surroundings hold a gloomy past when surveillance could have severe consequences. From today’s highest point, you overlook the vast plain of the glacial-shaped valley where thousands of sheep roaming free. Tonight, the shepherds of the Kaloshi clan welcome you into their modest wooden huts on the Ladies Pasture at 1,770m. There is no phone signal, electricity or shower, but you will be given a warm welcome. You may even have an opportunity to milk a sheep.

Walking for the day: 16km, 7h, ↑1025m ↓575m

Day 6 : Crossing Grama Pass To Rabdisht 15Km

Location: Rabdisht

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Rabdisht

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s walk takes you along a mule path towards Grama Pass (2,300m) with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Looking behind, views of Mount Korab and Grama Lake leave you appreciating the long way you have come. Take a zig-zagging descent down an old border patrol path all the way to Rabdisht village, where another wonderful guesthouse awaits.

Walking for the day: 15km, 8h, ↑800m ↓1550m

Day 7 : From Rabdisht To Tirana 12Km

Location: Tirana

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Tirana

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s hike through the picturesque villages of Dibra smooths the transition from alpine heights to the city’s fast-paced life. Visiting Zagrad, Cerjan and Bellove you have time to take in the region’s traditional stone houses and meet local people. A transfer takes you from Bellove via Peshkopi to Tirana in the early afternoon. Spend the evening strolling around the capital, followed by a final dinner.

Walking for the day: 12km, 5h, ↑700m ↓750m

Day 8 : Departure

Location: Tirana

Meals Included: Breakfast

Time permitting, Tirana invites you to explore its streets and sights on a stroll. Sip an espresso in one of the charming bars, observe the busy morning flow and select special treats as edible souvenirs at the lively New Bazaar. If interested to learn more about the communist past, Bunkart 2 and The House of Leaves provide insights and are only a 5mins walk away from Tirana’s central Skanderbeg Square. Your walking holiday in Albania ends with a 40mins transfer to the airport. Transfer to the airport leaves at 10.00, if you wish to leave later it is possible to book a taxi for about €20.

Depending on departure time possibility to further explore the capital
Complimentary transfer to Tirana airport

What's Included

  • Group Transfer

    Complimentary group transfer from Tirana to Kukes and from Tirana to the airport.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided in Kukes, Caje, Radomire, the highlands, Rabdisht, and Tirana.

  • Meals

    Meals included are breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner throughout the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    The ascent of Mount Korab is optional, and alternative activities are available.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Taxi Transfer

    If you wish to leave later than the scheduled airport transfer, a taxi can be booked for about €20.

Mode of Transport

Enjoy complimentary group transfers from Tirana to Kukes and back, with options for pick-up from Tirana city center or airport. Additional transfers are provided between hiking locations, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations including a homestay in Caje, guesthouses in Radomire and Rabdisht, and a unique stay in shepherds' huts in the highlands, offering a warm welcome and authentic local experiences.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the starting point of the tour?

    The tour starts with a meeting at the airport or in Tirana, Albania, for a quick walking tour before being transferred to Kukes.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    Accommodation varies from a homestay in Caje, guesthouses in Radomire and Rabdisht, to staying in shepherds' huts in the highlands.

  • Is the climb to Mount Korab mandatory?

    No, the ascent of Mount Korab is optional. Participants can choose to complete a shorter circuit, only part of the summit return hike, or spend the day at leisure around the village.

  • What kind of meals are provided during the tour?

    Meals provided include breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner each day.

  • Are there any cultural experiences included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes cultural experiences such as staying in a homestay in Caje, meeting local people in traditional stone houses, and possibly milking a sheep with the shepherds of the Kaloshi clan.

  • What is the final destination of the tour?

    The tour concludes in Tirana, where participants can explore the city before a complimentary transfer to the airport.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.