Do you love adventure and does your heart beat faster at the idea of freeriding in untouched nature? Then read on!
A few weeks ago, we went catskiing in Albania, and what an experience it was. This country has it all, and every day was a surprise. No two moments were the same, and that's what makes it so special. Located 'in the middle of nowhere', far off the beaten path, this unique location offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most remote areas of the Balkans. Discover the most remote freeride experience in Europe with like-minded adventurers.
DAY 1
Our journey begins at Schiphol, where we gather for the flight to Pristina, with a stopover in Vienna. After landing, our guide is already waiting to take us to Peja. We spend the first day in the city of Peja. What immediately strikes you? The hospitality of the locals. We enjoy a delicious meal and immediately get a glimpse into the local culture. Did you know, for example, that residents of Kosovo have only been allowed to travel abroad without a visa since January 1, 2024? You feel that gratitude everywhere: rarely have we met such warm and helpful people.
DAY 2
The next morning, we leave early for our first lodge. The drive starts on paved roads, but soon we are driving our 4X4 over rough trails. As soon as the first snow appears, the snowcat is ready to take us further into the mountains. In the middle of the mountain, we get out and start our hike up. A little later, we click into our skis and dive into the fresh powder. Sun on our faces, full of healthy adrenaline. This is what we came for.
Our lodge is located in Doberdol, on the remote Subliva plateau, situated in northern Albania at an altitude of 1800 meters. At the lodge, we meet a group that has already been there for a few days. Coffee, tea, and a warm meal are waiting for us. The food is deliciously fresh, and after a pleasant evening, we go to bed early. Ready for the next adventure.
DAY 3
This time, a snowmobile takes us one by one to the top. The view? Indescribable. And the descent just as magical. Fresh powder snow and long descents again. But the adventure doesn't stop there: that same evening, we hike through the mountains back to Kosovo, then ski down by moonlight. At the bottom, the snowcat is waiting again to take us to our hostel in Peja. Sleep is short, because at 6 AM, we are ready for the next adventure: a lodge high in the mountains of Kosovo.
DAY 4
The journey there is an experience in itself. It’s a rough ride straight through a gorge towards the snowline, where the snowcat is waiting for us. The snowcat drives over a mountain pass and then descends to the plateau where the lodge is located. Once we arrive at the next lodge, another fantastic crew is ready for us. During the day, we explore the mountains, and in the evening, we enjoy a freshly prepared dinner.
DAY 5
We start the day again with a delicious breakfast prepared for us in the lodge. During the day, we take a beautiful hike, followed by a few great descents in perfect snow conditions. In the evening, we gather around a crackling campfire. Together with a group of men from England, a group from Sweden, and of course, with the crew from the lodge. Under the starry sky, the most beautiful conversations arise. Some things you just have to experience for yourself to truly understand them.
DAY 6
On our last day, we take a beautiful, long ride down. Our luggage is transported by snowmobile. We conclude our trip in Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. We enjoy the hospitality and rich culture of this special country one last time. What is striking again is how respectful the people are here. Towards each other, and especially towards women. A beautiful detail that truly stuck with us.
DAY 7
And then it was time to say goodbye. With a stopover in Zurich, we landed back at Schiphol. What a week. What an adventure. This isn't just freeriding; this is an epic journey into the unknown, where adventure and humility come together for an experience that broadens your horizons and makes your heart beat faster.
Do you think: I want to experience this too?
Good news! We're doing this again next year. Keep an eye on our socials and those of EPIQUE, and who knows, maybe you'll be there too next year. High in the mountains.
Author: Jamie Jongman