From the alpine valleys of Valbona to the shores of the Adriatic.
this 11-day journey moves through some of the Balkans’ wildest and most beautiful LANDSCAPES.
You'll race across the spine of the Accursed Mountains in a single-day mountain ultra, travel by ferry through dramatic canyons, share meals in remote villages, and explore Ottoman towns, vineyards, and coastal cities.
Along the way, you'll connect with local communities, learn about their traditional methods of production, and directly support disadvantaged school children through our social development program.
It’s a rare blend of endurance, culture, and impact; designed for those seeking purpose-driven, adventure travel.
$1490 USD
PRICES STARTING FROM
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
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Arrival in Tirana & Transfer to Shkoder
Meet in Tirana. All transport is arranged by our team. We’ll head north to Shkoder where you’ll check in at the Rose Garden Guesthouse. The afternoon is free to explore the city or relax after travel. -
Shkoder to Valbona via Lake Komani Ferry
We leave early for the Lake Komani ferry - one of the most scenic routes in Albania. After navigating the canyons by boat, we transfer through the mountains to Valbona and check in at Rilindja Guesthouse. In the evening, enjoy a traditional çifteli (Albanian lute) performance. -
Explore Valbona Valley & Kukaj Village
A relaxed day in Valbona to explore the valley and surrounding trails. Hike to Kukaj village, a small alpine settlement, to stretch the legs and adjust to the terrain. Early dinner and race briefing in the evening. Guests are also free to relax in preparation of the race. -
The Peaks Ultra: Valbona to Vusanje (42km or 62km)
Race day. Both race distances (42km/62km) start in Valbona and pass through Theth and Qafa e Pejes before finishing in Vusanje, Montenegro. Aid stations will be manned by local villagers and stocked with XXX -
Recovery, Transfer to Shkoder via Montenegro
Start the day with a recovery breakfast and short presentation celebrating all runners. After check-out, we transfer from Vusanje back toward Shkoder. On the way, we stop in Virpazar, Montenegro for sightseeing and lunch. A short walk to the natural spring Oko Skakavice is also included. Participants ending their trip are dropped off in Shkoder. Those continuing join the transfer to Shegjin and check in to the local guesthouse.
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6 Days | 22–27 September
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Rest Day in Shengjin
After the intense adventure in the mountains, a well-deserved, full day to unwind by the coast. Take a swim, rest, or go for a light walk in the seaside town of Shengjin. Local seafood options available nearby. -
Shengjin to Tirana and Mount Dajti
Travel to Tirana with a stop at Mt. Dajti, looming large over the nation’s capital. Take the cable car up for panoramic views over the city. Overnight in Durres at a local guesthouse. -
Day Trip to Berat with Wine Tasting
Day trip to the UNESCO-listed town of Berat. We visit a nearby village for lunch at a guesthouse and taste locally produced wines. Return to Durres in the evening. -
Skenderbeu Distillery & Durres Walking Tour
Tour of the historic Skenderbeu distillery followed by a walking tour through Durres' Roman and Ottoman heritage sites. Afternoon free to relax or visit the beach. -
Social Development Project
We visit a local school to deliver a donation - this could be backpacks, school monitors, or other requested supplies. It's a chance to connect with the community and contribute directly. -
Departure from Tirana
Transfers to Tirana Airport or onward travel as needed.
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Pre-race briefing, welcome dinner and performance
All accommodation (what type??)
All ground transportation, fuel and drivers (Including boat)
Airport transfers to/from Tirana
All activities as outlined in itinerary
Race entry and gpx file
finishers t-shirt and photo package
SDP contribution (5% of tour costs)
post-race recovery breakfast and presentation
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International flights to/from Albania
Travel Insurance
Tips for guides
THE PEAKS OF THE BALKANS ULTRA.
Challenge yourself with a
Starting early in the Valbona Valley, you’ll ascend quiet alpine trails surrounded by sharp peaks as you delve deep into the infamous Accursed Mountains. Both the 42km and 62km distances traverse remote, technical terrain, from Valbona over high passes through Theth and on to Vusanje in Montenegro with the addition of a final mountain pass for the longer distance.
You’ll climb through forest and rock, pass alpine lakes, and move across ridgelines that were, until recently, closed to the public. Soak in the granite peaks and expansive greenery as you overcome 3700m+ of elevation gain, racing to the finish line before the setting sun.
We’ve curated this experience to be more than just a race. It’s a rare opportunity to run with purpose in one of Europe’s true wildernesses.
HALF 21km | FULL 42km | uLTRA 50km
IF YOU THINK YOU’VE GOT WHAT IT TAKES , HIT THE CONTACT US BUTTON TO FIRE US AN EMAIL & OUR FCT CREW WILL BE IN TOUCH TO SET UP A CALL!
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT.
INFO COMING SOON.
FAQ’S
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In mid-September, Albania experiences pleasantly warm, sunny, and comfortable weather, transitioning from late summer into early autumn, with average daytime temperatures around 26-27°C (79-81°F) and cooler nights around 16-17°C (61-63°F). While generally warm, expect a few occasional rainstorms, especially in the mountains, and note that temperatures can be a bit cooler along the coast and in mountainous regions. The seas are still warm enough for swimming, and the crowds of the peak summer season have usually diminished.
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Solo travellers will be paired with other solo travellers, single supplement is also available upon request. For all up to date pricing, click here.
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Absolutely! There is no obligation to run any of the race distances and there will be ample other activities available on race day for those not participating.
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Upon booking you will receive an initial briefing booklet. As the departure date nears, we will send out an in-depth handbook including everything you have to bring from clothing to footwear to safety gear.
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