The Accursed Mountains, also known as the Albanian Alps, stretch dramatically across Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. This rugged range is famous for its jagged limestone peaks, pristine rivers, and remote alpine villages. For adventurous travelers, the Accursed Mountains are the ultimate playground for hiking, camping, and reconnecting with raw nature.
While many international visitors know the classic Valbona–Theth trail, some of the most authentic experiences lie in the less-traveled corners of the range. In the Albanian village of Lepushë, tucked at 1,260 meters above sea level, two unforgettable hikes—Vajusha Peak and Berizhdoli Peak—showcase the best of what the Accursed Mountains have to offer.
Why Are They Called the Accursed Mountains?
The name “Accursed Mountains” (in Albanian Bjeshkët e Nemuna, in Slavic Prokletije) literally translates as “cursed mountains.” Folklore offers different explanations: one legend claims the devil himself rose from hell and carved the sharp peaks; another tells of a mother who, unable to find water for her children, cursed the mountains in despair; while a third suggests Slavic soldiers, struggling through the rugged landscape, shouted “accursed” as they failed to pass. Beyond myth, some scholars argue the name simply reflects the mountains’ unforgiving terrain, steep cliffs, and harsh winters that have made life here difficult for centuries.
Hiking Vajusha Peak (2,056 m)
Starting directly from Lepushë village, the trail to Vajusha Peak (also known as Talijanka) offers a moderate challenge with rewarding panoramas over the Accursed Mountains.
- Difficulty: T2 (moderate)
- Trail Markings: Clearly signposted
- Starting Altitude: 1,260 m
- Summit Altitude: 2,056 m
- Duration: 4–5 hours round trip
- Fitness Level: Moderate
The path begins in thick beech forest, gradually opening to green alpine pastures. As you climb higher, the views expand—first revealing the rooftops of Lepushë below, and later the dramatic ridgelines of the Prokletije massif. The final ascent is short but steep, delivering you onto a summit that feels timeless. At 2,056 meters, the silence of the mountains erases the noise of everyday life. It’s the kind of place where you instinctively sit cross-legged, breathe deeply, and feel part of something much older than yourself.
Hiking Berizhdoli Peak (1,977 m)
Just a few kilometers from Vajusha, Berizhdoli Peak offers another rewarding hike with a completely different atmosphere.
- Trailhead: Lepushë village
- Trail Markings: Well marked
- Summit Altitude: 1,977 m
- Duration: ~2.5 hours ascent
- Difficulty: Moderate
The hike begins with rolling meadows, where autumn often paints the landscape in golden and red hues. As you gain altitude, blueberry bushes line the path, tempting hikers to pause for a sweet taste of the wild. After about two and a half hours, you reach the ridge and follow it to the summit. The reward is a 360-degree panorama of the Accursed Mountains—one of the most breathtaking views in northern Albania.
Berizhdoli is not as tall as Vajusha, but its setting makes it an equally memorable hike. The combination of crisp alpine air, colorful vegetation, and the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding peaks makes it a must-do for anyone staying in Lepushë.
Why Lepushë is a Hidden Gem of the Accursed Mountains
Unlike the busier hubs of Theth or Valbona, Lepushë remains quieter, more traditional, and deeply connected to the rhythms of local mountain life. The village is easily accessible from Shkodër by road, and its guesthouses welcome travelers with hearty local meals. From Lepushë, hikers can tackle multiple day hikes—like Vajusha and Berizhdoli—or simply enjoy the surrounding alpine valleys.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the soul of the Accursed Mountains, Lepushë is the perfect base: a blend of untouched wilderness, warm hospitality, and hiking trails that rival the best in Europe.
Practical Tips for Hiking in the Accursed Mountains
- Best Season: May to October is ideal for hiking. In spring and autumn, trails are quieter and the weather is cooler.
- Accommodation: Guesthouses in Lepushë, Theth, and Valbona offer authentic stays, often with home-cooked meals.
- Guides: Trails like Vajusha and Berizhdoli are well marked, but hiring a local guide enriches the experience and supports the community.
- Preparation: Moderate fitness is required; carry layers, water, and snacks. Weather in the mountains changes quickly.
The Accursed Mountains live up to their legendary name, offering landscapes that feel both forbidding and enchanting. While well-known trails like Valbona–Theth draw international trekkers, peaks such as Vajusha and Berizhdoli prove that some of the most magical experiences are found off the main routes.
If you’re looking for an authentic adventure in Albania, make your way to Lepushë. Here, surrounded by alpine forests and towering peaks, you’ll discover that the true essence of the Accursed Mountains is not just in their epic scenery—but in the way they make you feel far from the world, and close to yourself.
Looking for more travel inspiration nearby? Don’t miss our guide: Best Places to Visit in Shkoder, Albania (2025 Travel Guide).
