The Albania-Montenegro mountains are among the highest peaks of the Dinaric Alps spanning the Balkans. Known as the Accursed Mountains with several myths and legends of the names origin, this region is a place where you can still get lost, see nobody, and be immersed in the most stunning views and untouched nature Europe has to offer.
Today Albania is one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in Europe. The great unknown lures people in and the friendliness and hospitality, paired with amazing landscapes, do their part to make the visitor fall in love with the country.
Trip Highlights:
Mountain Majesty: Explore the rugged beauty of Valbona National Park and the Accursed Mountains.
Serene Lakes: Unwind by the tranquil shores of Lake Shkoder.
Rushing Rivers: Run alongside Crnojevića and the Lum River.
Coastal Charm: Experience the beauty of the Adriatic Sea and Boka Kotorska Bay.
Cultural Immersion: Discover the rich and complex history and warm hospitality of Albania and Montenegro.
Diverse Terrain: Challenge yourself on trails ranging from lush forests to rocky high mountain passes.
Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe.
About
Gallery
About The Host
Each person on our small, multinational team brings a unique set of running abilities, travel experience, and guiding expertise to the table, but something that we all have in common is an addiction to exploration, a borderline obsession with running, and a love of helping others experience the world in this very unique way. Our guides are certified Wilderness First Responders, practice Leave No Trace principles, and have guided well over 200 running trips combined. When you join a trip you’ll be traveling, running, and exploring with at least one (if not 2 or 3) of us.
Itinerary
Things to keep in mind
FAQ
Why here?
The Albania-Montenegro mountain range connecting Theth to Durmitor is one of the last spots in Europe where you can still get lost, see nobody, and surround yourself with some of the most stunning views and nature Europe has to offer.
Today, Albania is one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in Europe. The great unknown lures people in, and the friendliness and hospitality, paired with some of the most amazing landscapes, do their part to make visitors fall in love with the region.
What’s included in the trip cost?
The trip price includes pre-trip communication & guidance, airport transfers, 7 nights accommodation, all meals from dinner on the first day until breakfast on the final day, transportation, drivers, experienced trip leaders, local logistics team, the organized supported runs, a rafting trip, drinking water and Rogue Expeditions swag.
In short, just about everything is covered from the moment you land until the moment you leave!
What isn’t included in the trip cost?
The cost does not include alcohol, tips, personal purchases or transport to/from unscheduled destinations.
How far do I have to be able to run?
This trip is for more experienced runners and requires a good level of fitness and running experience. The runs vary in distance and difficulty. The longest run is about 9 miles with significant elevation gain. Some days involve long hikes instead of runs, with the longest being about 12 miles with 4,000 ft of elevation gain. It's important to be comfortable with consecutive days of challenging terrain and long distances.
What sort of terrain will we be running on?
The terrain is diverse and challenging. Expect mountain trails, forest paths, rocky terrain, and some road running. You'll encounter single-track trails, dirt roads, and possibly some paved sections. The terrain can be rough and technical at times, especially in the Albanian Alps.
What time of day will we be running?
Aside from the arrival day shakeout (which happens around 4pm), runs will take place mid-morning, after breakfast and before lunch. Although temperatures should be very pleasant, please expect full sun exposure each day and make sure you've got protection!
What will we do when we aren’t running?
In addition to running, the trip includes activities such as rafting on the Tara River, exploring historical sites like Fort St. Andrija, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine. You'll also have time to relax and recover in beautiful settings like Skadar Lake and the Valbona Valley.
Can my non-runner spouse/friend come too?
Given the challenging nature of this trip and the remote locations we'll be visiting, it's best suited for active participants. Please contact us directly to discuss options for non-runners.
What is the weather like?
Weather can vary significantly given the diverse terrain. In general, expect mild to warm days and cooler nights. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes and potential rain.
Can I have my own room at hotels?
Possibly! We occasionally have a limited number of single rooms available after the balance due date (3 months prior to departure). The boutique properties that we use only have so many rooms, so we cannot guarantee how many will be available until we know the final group size. You can indicate your interest when you register and we will offer single rooms in the order in which you registered.