TIRANA, Aug 26 /ATA/ The High Scardus Trail is being transformed into a mountain tourism destination in the Western Balkans, connecting Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia through a cross-border itinerary. In a social media post, the German Embassy in Albania emphasized that the development of this trail goes beyond promoting mountain landscapes, as it aims to create economic opportunities for local communities and protect the natural and cultural heritage of mountain areas.
“On the High Scardus Trail, the experience goes beyond the thrill of breathtaking mountain views. In Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia, ancient mountain paths have been transformed into a cross-border hiking route, bringing nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts closer to some of the Western Balkans’ most pristine landscapes — and to the people who call these places home,” the German Embassy noted.
The German Embassy highlighted that along the Albanian stages of the trail, visitors cross Mount Korab and the high pastures of Grama, meet shepherds, stay in family-run guesthouses, and experience the warmth and hospitality of local communities.
According to the embassy, German Development Cooperation, together with regional partners, has supported the development of the High Scardus Trail with the aim that soft and sustainable tourism generates income and creates conditions for residents to remain in their hometowns.
“Soft and sustainable tourism can generate income and, in doing so, help people remain in their hometowns while at the same time protecting the natural and cultural heritage that makes these mountain areas unique,” the German Embassy emphasized. The embassy further noted that today the High Scardus Trail has become an internationally recognized tourist destination.
“Its greatest success, however, is revealed along the journey itself: borders turn into connections, remote places become destinations, and local traditions become part of the experience,” the German Embassy wrote. The 362‑kilometer trail, which links the mountains of Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia, includes about 45 kilometers within Albanian territory, mainly along the country’s eastern highlands.
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