Hiking in the Balkan countries

Slovenia is green in almost every direction and has a good number of trails that start even from the main cities. The variety of routes is important and they adapt to all audiences, from short walks along valleys and hills, to trails of great difficulty in the high mountains, where in addition to enjoying nature and clean air you can enjoy landscapes and views of the peaks of the alps. Another attraction of hiking in this country, is that it is a very little exploited destination in regards to adventure tourism, so you can walk through endless roads without meeting anyone other than your fellow travelers. Slovenia has almost 10.000 kilometers of marked trails for hiking. This is our understanding one of the main charms of Slovenia, a place to enjoy culture, the sun and the beach and also outdoor sports.

The map of Croatia seems to be completely full of erasures, but not, it is about its marked trails. Beginners can start near Zagreb after a tour of the capital, or in the city of Split considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO , on the dalmatian coast. Also in the highlands of the islands of Mljet, Brač and Vis are great places to stretch your legs. Walking around the lakes of Plitvice National Park is a treat for the senses; we can also hike through the rocky fields full of lavender flower in Hvar. In our search through the fields of our next fantastic sight we will find entire fields of lavender , but you should not pick those flowers as they will probably be someone's cash crops! For the more adventurous, like climbers, can choose from more than 400 organized mountain routes, counting on some of the most demanding routes in Europe. Anica kuk offers a legendary climb up her cliff 350 meters, at the top we will get our reward with great views of the sea that we will remember for a lifetime.

The cross route of Montenegro was inaugurated to attract visitors fascinated by the coastal mountain scenery and also by its dazzling inland area. The route of 182 km starts in the coastal mountains at Orjen, north of the Bay of Kotor, continuing to Lovćen south. A day trip along this path to enjoy some breathtaking views; We can also appreciate curious plants that we cannot find in other areas, and of course also the typical Mediterranean plants. Walk through historic trade caravan routes, old military fortifications and places of ethnological interest. 6.000 km of trails are being adapted to create an official national network in Montenegro.

Greece, another of the essential destinations in the Balkans. Explore remote coves and the ruins of ancient cities. Both the Greek islands and the mainland are a hiker's dream come true, with numbered routes and well-organized trail systems. Discover unspoiled Greece by hiking trails full of wild flowers, valleys, historical places, watermills and the oldest roads in the west. Meet the locals, drink wine with them and enjoy the taste of food in restaurants and taverns. Local guides can also be hired to take you on botanical tours along the ancient trails of the islands while sharing their knowledge of folklore with you., the history, agriculture and archeology of the place. Master with them the ancient art of beekeeping and find out how old herbal and flower remedies heal new wounds.

Serbia is also a world apart. The best way to get to know the country is on foot, so hiking through its places is the most recommended.. Vast plains, towns, villages, cities and mountain tops, which are a real challenge even for experienced hikers, although the effort is worth it. In addition to outdoor sports and the physical satisfaction that hiking generates, you can also enjoy beautiful views of nature and have the opportunity to see many historical monuments, like the fabulously decorated churches and monasteries hidden anywhere in the middle of the forest.

Of course Bulgaria, our “homeland girl” It is the most recommended place in the area for hiking, with a large part of its surface of protected forests and mountains and a very little exploited tourist destination with a mixed culture of East and West, make it unique. We recommend the hiking trails in the mountains of Stara Planinia, the highest peak is Pirin, to almost 3.000 meters high. You will be able to enjoy the most impressive landscapes and views, with a varied fauna and flora, with unique indigenous typologies. We especially recommend the Pirin National Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, features tracks for all skill levels. Remember that Bulgaria is a place where you can do much more than hiking, it is a jewel of cultural and historical treasures, like monasteries, painted wooden churches, stone churches, tombs and the rider of Madara.

The Carpathian Mountains form a great arch in central Romania. In fact, the 31% the country is mountainous. Within Romania there are countless places of great natural beauty: the mountain peaks, ravines, lagos, woods, caves, mud volcanoes and fossil deposits. The variety of terrains, from the most mountainous to the softest, offers adventure and fun for every hiker regardless of skill or level. Rock climbing enthusiasts should head to the main climbing areas: logs, rail, Zarnesti and Petrosani. More of 400 parks and reserves ensure plenty of protected natural space to enjoy at your leisure on a route through Romania.