Disclaimer: This was a sponsored blog trip; however, all views expressed in this article are my own and were not influenced by the organizers.
I had seen a few posts about the Via Dinarica Kosovo trail online, but I hadn’t taken the time to look into it deeply or plan anything. I knew I wanted to hike in Kosovo someday—especially after trekking some amazing routes abroad, like the Theth–Valbona trail, Maja e Vajushës, Poon Hill in Nepal, and Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan.
So, when I received an invitation to join the Via Dinarica Kosovo blog trip—organized by the Utalaya Foundation and led by Uta Ibrahimi—I couldn’t say no. It was a perfect opportunity to explore some of Kosovo’s most beautiful trails, promote my home country, and, yes, do it all as part of a sponsored trip (thanks to AICS Tirana)!
With minimal physical prep (as usual for me, haha), I joined a group of bloggers, photographers, and journalists from Albania and North Macedonia, all with the same mission: to discover and promote the magic of Via Dinarica Kosovo.
Day 1: From Prishtina to Hajla – Stage 3
Our journey began in Prishtina, where we set off toward Peja and then to the village of Shtedim—the starting point of our first hike toward Hajla Peak. We spent the night at the cozy Stani i Fatosit guesthouse.
The trail to Hajla was stunning. We kept repeating how beautiful everything was—because it really was. I couldn’t stop taking photos and videos along the way.
Day 2: Climbing Hajla Peak (2,403m) & Onward to Milishevc
After a hearty breakfast, we began our ascent to Hajla Peak at 2,403 meters. I’ll be honest—it was a bit of a struggle. I hadn’t done a serious hike in a while, and let’s say my daily 6,000+ steps aren’t quite the same as hiking above 2,000 meters! Still, the fresh mountain air, breathtaking views, and love for my country kept me going. And yes—I made it!
After descending, we took a short hike to Pepaj village, where 4×4 vehicles picked us up and drove us to our next overnight stop: Lojza Guest House in Milishevc. The views? Still amazing. And then there was Bora the dog—such a sweetheart! We ended the evening with dinner and a bonfire, chatting with other travelers (including a group from Australia doing the Peaks of the Balkans trail).
Day 3: Milishevc to Gacaferi Guest House – Stage 8
We kicked off day three with a mix of off-roading and hiking. Part of the route to Roshkodol was done in 4x4s, followed by an easy and scenic hike to Gacaferi Guest House. This stage was more relaxed compared to Hajla or the hike awaiting us on the final day.
We passed bubbling streams, the Lumbardhi River of Deçan, and alpine pine forests. That evening, our host, Mrs. Safete, treated us to an unforgettable traditional dinner.
Day 4: Summit of Gjeravica Peak (2,656m) – Stage 9
Our final day was the most challenging—but also the most rewarding. We tackled Stage 9 of the trail, heading toward Gjeravica Peak, the highest point in Kosovo at 2,656 meters.
Along the way, we passed Tropoja Lake and took a short break at the scenic Heart-shaped Lake (Liqeni i Zemrës). I won’t lie—this hike pushed me to my limits. The night before, I had stomach cramps and wasn’t sure I’d make it. But I’m a Capricorn… and we don’t quit easily. With some inner grit and the support of the team, I made it to the top.
The time at the summit was brief, but it was worth it.
We descended to Gropa e Erenikut, where our 4x4s were waiting to take us back to Peja, and eventually Prishtina, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.
Thinking of hiking the Via Dinarica Kosovo?
Check out the list of essentials you’ll need for the trail. If you’re looking for a guide, you can get in touch with the team via the contact information on their website. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a passionate explorer like me, this route will leave you in awe of Kosovo’s natural beauty.
You can also check out the Via Dinarica Kosovo Festival, which will take place from August 15 to 17. And you can also check my Instagram stories and follow me there for more experiences to come.
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