The iconic Balkans occupy southeastern Europe and offer breathtaking terrains with timeless charms and hidden gems. Visit famed landmarks in Greek mythology, hike the enigmatic Accursed Mountains, traverse areas that have recovered from gruesome pasts and behold nature and life from a brand new perspective. Walk with us as we take you through the best five hiking destinations in the Balkans.
Photo credit: George Ivanov
Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria
The Seven Rila Lakes are an unequivocal attestation to nature's artistry and one of the most outstanding tourist destinations on the Balkan Peninsula. This glacial lake group is between 2,100 and 2,500 m above sea level in the northwestern Rila mountains in Bulgaria. Each of the lakes—the tear, the eye, the kidney, the twins, the trefoil, the fish lake and the lower lake, are distinct and have been named for their shapes and qualities.
The Seven Rila Lakes are arranged one above the other but are tied together by small streams and waterfalls. This day hike is awe-inspiring, rewarding you with panoramas of stunning mountains, glistening lakes and lush forests. You can stop to soak in the gorgeous vistas and take photos of the postcard-perfect scenery at several points.
Photo credit: Daniel J. Schwarz
Accursed Mountains, Montenegro, Albania & Kosovo
The Accursed Mountain, less dramatically referred to as the Albanian Alps, is a mountain range occupying southeast Europe and straddles the borders of Montenegro, Kosovo and Albania. There are various theories about why this gorgeous mountain range has such an ominous name, one being that the devil created it in 24 hours. The Albanian Alps, comprising 19 cliffs, are breathtaking, powerful and imposing, reaching beyond 2,400 metres, with Maja Jezerce being the second tallest mountain in Albania.
The Accursed Mountains are known for their raw and jagged peaks, stunning ancient villages and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a unique hiking adventure conquering lush forests, gorgeous valleys and steep slopes and interacting with lovely locals. If it is your first time hiking the mountain range, it is advisable to base Theth or Valbone, popular hiking towns that provide easy access to many scenic hikes.
Photo credit: Ben Dumond
Olympus National Park, Greece
The Olympus National Park, covering an area of 24,087 hectares, is one of the country's top attractions. Designated a national park in 1938, it is the first in Greece and is a rich and stunning representation of culture, history and nature. It is an excellent destination for hikers to let loose as it boasts various landscapes comprising jagged peaks like Mount Olympus, dense forests and alpine meadows.
Mount Olympus, arguably the most remarkable mountain in Greece and the Mediterranean, is famed for being the home of the Twelve Gods of antiquity, including the famous god Zeus. It holds historical and archaeological significance, impressive biodiversity and rich flora. Mount Olympus, the highest mountain, is a favourite hiking destination in Greece, featuring its highest peak, Mytikas, 2,918 m high, and an extensive system of paths and trails.
Several hiking routes expose you to the grandeur of the national park, featuring awe-inspiring views, unique flora and fauna and veiled waterfalls. A significant piece of history and Greek mythology, the Olympus National Park promises unforgettable hiking experiences.
Photo credit: Maria Teneva
Tampa Mountain, Romania
The Tampa mountain, also known as Mount Tampa, sits in the centre of Brasov and exists as part of the Postavarul Massif. It overlooks Brasov, at 960 m, about 400 m above the city. Mount Tampa is a natural reserve that houses many protected plant and animal species, including the Ura owl, Linx and brown bear.
Hiking Mount Tampa is one of the most satisfying things to do in Brasov. Several trails lead to the mountain's summit, the most popular ones being the serpentine and the Gabony's Steps trails. These trails are well-marked, typically about 3 km long and wind through a fusion of forested areas and open meadows.
The hike is of medium difficulty and rewards you with stunning panoramas of Brasov and the neighbouring Carpathian mountains. Reaching the summit lets you see its impressive Hollywood-esque sign up close and offers the best views of the old town, where you can easily tell the German part of town from the Romanian. The hike up the Tampa mountain immerses you in the history and charm of Brasov from a breathtaking perspective.
Photo credit: Mike Swigunski
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes is Croatia's oldest and largest national park, covering about 30,000 hectares. It sits in a gorgeous karst terrain with lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. This forest reserve is famed for its 16 interconnected terraced lakes comprising 12 Upper Lakes and 4 Lower Lakes and about 90 cascading waterfalls. The lake structure is a wonder involving geologic and biochemical processes known as tufa, through which barriers and lakes are formed. This process is of universal value, which is why the Plitvice Lakes was recognised on 26 October 1979 as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hiking around Plitvice is organised as there are about 8 routes that typically take 3 to 8 hours to traverse. Exploring the Lower Lakes allows you to witness famous waterfalls, like the iconic Veliki Slap, while the Upper Lakes reward you with breathtaking views. You also get to see diverse, unique plant and animal species.
The Balkans are filled with gorgeous areas that testify to nature's undeniable appeal. Prepare to lace up your boots and have the time of your life beholding unique landscapes, plant and animal life, and culture at any of these best five hiking destinations in the Balkans.
