This hike offers a gentle day on foot, focusing less on altitude gain and more on wide-open views and quiet forest paths. The hills above Valbonë form a natural terrace along the north-western slopes of the valley, overlooking both the riverbed and the rugged south-eastern wall of the national park. As you pass through mixed forests and open stretches, you’ll get varied perspectives of the valley and the distant peaks that define the dramatic skyline of the Accursed Mountains.

Starting from the center of Valbonë, the trail gently climbs out of the valley along a clearly visible and well-maintained path. The ascent is steady but moderate, gradually gaining elevation through meadows and forest patches.

As you reach the upper ridgelines, the terrain opens up. The views become increasingly expansive, with clear lines toward the south-eastern ridges of the park and down into the wide gravel basin of the Valbonë River. This section of the trail does not reach a dramatic peak, but the panoramic scenery and peaceful surroundings make it a rewarding hike.

After reaching the highest point of the day, around 1,300 meters above sea level, the trail begins to descend. It leads through forest and open terrain into Kukaj, with occasional views into the glacial valley to the west. Eventually, the trail curves back toward the valley floor, bringing you back to your starting point in Valbonë.

• Hike’s difficulty: 2/5
• Total ascent: 450 m
• Total descent 450 m
• Distance: 8 km
• Time of the hike: 3 hours (Hiking time without breaks)

This trail starts and ends in the village of Valbona in the Albanian Alps.