TIRANA, August 20 – CNN Travel has highlighted Albania’s role in the Peaks of the Balkans, a 120-mile hiking route crossing Albania, Montenegro and Kosova through the Accursed Mountains. The international trail connects remote mountain landscapes that remained isolated for much of the 20th century.

The article gives particular attention to Albania’s northern mountains. The route includes Theth, Valbona, Çerem and Dobër­dol before crossing into Kosova. The Theth-Valbona section covers 13.9 kilometres, while the final stage from Vusanje in Montenegro back to Theth covers 21.4 kilometres.

CNN Travel describes the Albanian section as a combination of rugged peaks, deep valleys, traditional villages and forests. The area also carries visible reminders of Albania’s communist past, including abandoned concrete bunkers.

Meanwhile, the trail has created new opportunities for communities along the route. In Çerem, Dibër, Albanian guesthouse owner Kujtim Gocaj has expanded his family business as more international hikers visit the area. CNN Travel says the trail has also helped local families supplement farming and livestock activities through tourism.

The article presents the Peaks of the Balkans as a growing international hiking destination. However, it notes that the route remains largely untouched by mass tourism and can still face severe weather conditions, particularly outside the summer season.

/a.p./