Harmen Hoek
Guide Backpacking the Peaks of the Balkans Trail (7–13 Days, Variant)
Guide Backpacking the Peaks of the Balkans Trail (7–13 Days, Variant)
Couldn't load pickup availability
Explore one of Europe’s wildest and most scenic treks across Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro with this variant of the classic Peaks of the Balkans Trail. This 7–13 day route includes all the highlights of the original 200km (125mi) circuit plus bonus side trips to Grebaje Valley, Gjeravica (Kosovo’s highest peak), and Maja Jezercë (Albanian Alps’ highest summit). Whether you’re camping or staying in guesthouses, this guide provides a detailed itinerary, GPX tracks, maps, border permit info, and everything you need for a flexible and unforgettable adventure through the Accursed Mountains.
Includes:
• 7 core stages + 3 optional side trips
• Custom Google Maps & GPX files with 100+ waypoints
• Camping & guesthouse options across 3 countries
• Border permit info, water sources, gear advice, transport & weather tips
Watch the journey at YouTube.com/HarmenHoek
Share

It’s quite disappointing. I mean there’s a couple useful bits of info but nothing that stands out as something that you couldn’t find without a bit more research. I knew most of what I wanted to do through my own research on freely available sources so I got this to check if I had any “blind spots” in my plan mainly to access the Google maps which was attached which didn’t even work. Additionally the layout and writing of the whole thing is quite poor and could do with some work. Wouldn’t really recommend as you can get 99% of the way there with freely available info and a little research which is part of the fun of such trips anyway imo.
Sorry to hear you were disappointed with the guide. I do believe it offers added value, as it includes a unique route variation that I developed myself and personally explored in two different seasons. The custom Google Map is working on my side, so please send me an email and I’ll be happy to help you access it. If the guide still doesn’t meet your expectations, I’m also happy to offer you a full refund.
The information provided is less detailed than the official Peaks of the Balkans Trail's public / free webpage as well as several write-ups available for everyone freely. I hoped at least for more details on logistics etc...
Hi Justus,
I’m really sorry to hear that you were disappointed with the guide. This guide is based on a custom version of the Peaks of the Balkans Trail - one that intentionally skips certain original sections and includes two side trips not part of the official route. It’s designed for hikers looking for a different experience than what’s found on public websites or standard descriptions. I also aimed to include practical logistics to support planning, but I understand if it didn’t meet your expectations.
I’d be happy to offer a refund. Just reach out via the contact form on the website and I’ll take care of it. My priority is always that people are 100% satisfied.
Wishing you the best on your journey through the Balkans.
Harmen
5/5
I love your videos on Youtube and it’s great to buy an extra guide for a small price for the hikes that I’m interested in. Great content!!
5/5