When it comes to trekking destinations, you’d be hard-pressed to find more diversity than Eastern Europe. From rugged coasts, ruined castles, soaring mountains, quaint villages and mysterious forests… it seems as though this part of Europe conceals most of the continent's last wild frontiers.
Here are our picks for the best trekking in Eastern Europe.
Montenegro
Though Montenegro is a small country, its geographical diversity is breath-taking. With sunny coasts and pristine beaches along the Adriatic Sea, to the looming mountains and sweeping fjords in Montenegro's north. It's one of the best countries for trekking in Eastern Europe and depending on your interests, there are a variety of landmarks and destinations that are worth seeing during your trekking and travel adventures. Here are a few examples:
- Budva: This tiny coastal town sits by the Adriatic Sea. You can soak up the Mediterranean sun along the Riviera, or explore the secluded island of St. Nikola and enjoy a picnic. Travellers recommend relaxing at Mogren Beach, where the waters are crystal clear and there are plenty of lounge chairs for rent. The area has many cafes and bars at the beach as well.
- Durmitor National Park: The sprawling and picturesque Durmitor National Park is in northern Montenegro. Among it’s grassy meadows, granite peaks and lush greenery, hides the Tara River Canyon. Tara is the second-deepest canyon in the world, only 200 meters less than the Grand Canyon in Arizona. It has crystal clear water which is safe to drink, plus plentiful vegetation and wildlife. Kayakers can enjoy the rapids that will take them past old monasteries, churches, watermills and more. Called the “Tear of Europe”, Tara is generally considered to be the most beautiful canyon on Earth.
- The Ladder of Cattaro: This switch-back stony trail once served as a military passage through the mountains. For a long time it was the only connection between the town of Cetinje and the bay town of Kotor. As you descend the 1000m, and at least 70 switchbacks, you’ll be greeted by ancient chapels, monasteries and fortresses. Two of the main locations are the Chapel of St. Ivan and Castle of San Giovanni. The descent into Kotor reveals picturesque views of the bay, surrounding mountains and the charming old city below.
Do you think Montenegro might be a wonderful place for trekking in Eastern Europe? Explore this beautiful country with Wild Frontiers’ 8-day guided trek through Montenegro.
Romania
Romania is a country of fairy tales. While many other places in Europe are well known, and rank highly on bucket lists, Romania remains a mysterious country. But it shouldn't be overlooked. More idyllic than its 'cultured' European neighbors, it isn't uncommon to encounter shepherds' huts and horse-drawn carts in the quaint villages. Romania also boasts the sweeping Carpathian mountains and deep, dark forests where wolves, boar and bears roam freely. The infamous region of Transylvania should also not be missed while visiting Romania, with its dark and stormy history (both real and imagined).
- Cluj: The city of Cluj is considered the unofficial capital of Transylvania, and it’s stretch of russet roofs interrupted by the spires of cathedrals and castles is a welcome sight. Cluj has a vibrant art scene, and a mixture of past and present with it’s reverence for history and modern development. A must-visit is the 15th century St. Michael’s Church, which is the best example of medieval gothic architecture in the city and features breathtaking stained glass and soaring towers.
- Breb: Breb is the seat of the “last peasant culture in Europe”, and is considered a village stuck in time. The draw of this quaint village is that there are no paved roads, and the locals use horses and carts or horses and sleighs in the winter. The villagers produce their own food and are often seen swinging scythes in the meadow to craft large haystacks. If you happen upon this town during a holiday, get ready to enjoy the villagers’ traditional Romanian garb, including bearskins at Christmas!
- Bucovina Painted Monasteries: Located in Northeast Romania, the Bucovina Painted Monasteries are an internationally famed site, brilliantly coloured Biblical stories told through the artwork on the outside of the churches. The original purpose of these 15th century paintings was to communicate Biblical stories to peasants who were not able to read. This site has incredible historical and theological significance and makes a nice stopping point on a peaceful trek through the pastoral peasant villages.
Ready to visit the enchanted forests and quaint Gypsy villages of Romania? Take a look at Wild Frontiers’ comprehensive trek through Romania here.
Turkey
Because of Turkey’s location and rich history, it has an identity that seems divided between the Mediterranean influences of Greece and Rome and the exotic mosques and spices of the far east. The Taurus Mountains provide a fantastic trekking opportunity, through the area's long history and its surreal landscapes.
- Antalya: Antalya is a wonderful spot to start your trek through Turkey. It features crystal clear Mediterranean waters and resort-quality beaches coupled with rich Turkish history. Some sites worth visiting here are the Beach Park, Duden Falls, Old Town Antalya and Hadrian’s Gate.
- Egirdir: The town of Egirdir sits alongside the mirror-like lake of the same name, below the Taurus Mountains. Trekkers through the northern Taurus mountains will find a respite here by the lake, with clear waters and gorgeous landscapes. You can pay local fishermen a small fee to take you out onto the lake for the day and enjoy the beauty around you.
- Adada: Southeast of Egirdir lie the ruins of the ancient city of Adada. This city was mentioned in works by the ancient geographer Ptolemy and is believed to have been abandoned in 1422. The ruins are strikingly well-preserved for their age, and the central road through Adada reveals several notable structures. The Temple of the Emperors and Aphrodite, and The Temple of the Emperors and Zeus Serapis still stand, and several other buildings around the town center as well.
Georgia
Georgia is not a typical tourist destination in Europe, but it should be and is slowly becoming more and more popular. Like many Eastern European countries on this list, it has a breathtaking landscape that evokes images of fairy tales and medieval romance. Some of the best trekking in Europe can be found in this beautiful country.
- Tbilisi: Tbilisi is a melting pot of each culture that has passed through. Frequently referred to as the point where East meets West, traces of Russian, Ottoman, Arab and Mongol culture still exists in the architecture and preserved ruins. The locals are incredibly friendly, and when you’re not exploring ruins, baths and soaring cathedrals, you can buy freshly-baked bread, or enjoy delicious wines and spirits brewed in the city by locals.
- Shkhara Glacier: Mt. Shkhara is crowned by an brilliant white glacier in the northern portion of Georgia. The glacier sprawls across the green landscape, sourcing a rushing river that cuts through the land. Framed by green mountains on either side, the small towns and scenic views in this area are perfect for a day trek for visitors to the area.
- Dadiani Palaces: This collection of three palaces belonging to the royal family of Samegrelo are a prominent national museum located on the western coast of Georgia. They contain extensive cultural, historical and archaeological collections, as well as impressive gardens and their own royal history.
If a cultural melting pot and sweeping panoramas sound like a trek you could see yourself on, check out Wild Frontiers’ guided walk through Georgia here.
Albania
Albania is a land filled with natural beauty and belove dby poets, inlcuding Lord Byron, making it a fantastic destination for trekking in Eastern Europe. Soaring vistas are punctuated by river valleys, lakes, craggy gorges and the Albanian version of the Alps. Albania is the trekker's dream, offering mountain trails, coastal treks, historical sites and quaint villages to experience and joy from north to south.
- Shkodër: This city is one of Europe’s oldest and most historic. It bears the mark of Albania’s various conquerors throughout history, with sprawling castles, cathedrals and mosques standing together in harmony. The “Gateway to the North” offers an abundance of views and natural beauty. It borders a deep blue lake and offers sweeping panoramas of the Albanian Alps and the Adriatic Sea.
- Accursed Mountains: These imposing limestone mountains are actually very beautiful despite their intimidating name. A popular hiking trail exists between the villages of Valbona and Theth, and many backpackers reach Valbona by taking a bare-bones ferry across Lake Koman to reach the next leg of their journey. While in Valbona, hikers often pause at the Hotel Riljinda. This is home to a famous American hiker named Catherine who has become a legendary source of tourist information about the area and frequently holds court in the dining room.
- Castle of Ali Pasha: The Castle of Ali Pasha is a site you have to had read or heard about to make a conscious stop here, but its worth it. The castle ruins perch on a promontory overlooking a grey sea, surrounded by craggy rocks and a severe and ominous presence. Previously used for military operations, you can climb inside the ruins and poke around. Make sure to bring a flashlight, and don’t expect any informative signs or materials to tell you about this curious landmark.
Albania hasn’t always been open to visitors because of its past communist regime, but it is fast becoming a trekking destination for curious backpackers. Interested in touring the diverse landscape and historical significance of Albania? Wild Frontiers offers two guided walks through Albania, Walking through Northern Albania and Walking in Southern Albania.
