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brooke beyond
the category

Montenegro
Albania / Europe / Kosovo / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans: the ultimate 12-day hiking route & complete planning guide

10 July 2026
Albania / Europe / Kosovo / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans guesthouses: what to expect (+ best 2026 guesthouses)

8 July 2026
Albania / Europe / Kosovo / Montenegro

Complete Peaks of the Balkans packing list

6 July 2026
Albania / Europe / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 11): Vusanje to Theth via Buni Jezercës + Maja Bojës summit

2 July 2026
Europe / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 10): Three Peaks Loop, Prokletije National Park

30 June 2026
Europe / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 9): Plav to Vusanje via Bora Peak

28 June 2026
Europe / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 8): Babino Polje to Plav

27 June 2026
Europe / Kosovo / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 7): Drelaj to Babino Polje

27 June 2026
Europe / Kosovo / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 4): Gacaferi to Milishevc via Zavoj Pass

25 June 2026
Albania / Europe / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 2): Çerem to Dobërdol

25 June 2026
Albania / Europe / Kosovo / Montenegro

Peaks of the Balkans (Day 1): Valbona to Çerem via Prosllopit Pass + Zla Kolata summit

25 June 2026
Europe / Montenegro

2-week Montenegro road-trip itinerary: epic hiking, Riviera beaches & wine country

3 September 2025

hi, I’m brooke!

I’m a full-time traveller obsessed with exploring unique destinations, remote landscapes, and high-elevation summits around the world. As a former research scientist with a PhD in Biomechanics, I now put my academic background to use writing thesis-level travel itineraries & hiking guides designed to help you explore better, more deeply, and always beyond the ordinary! xx bb

about brooke beyond
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🎒 hiking backpacks

🌨️ cold-weather layers

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🛌 sleeping bag & pads

🍪 backcountry food

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trail guides

summit guides

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outdoor gear

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recent posts

  • Hiking the Laugavegur Trail

    Hiking the Laugavegur + Fimmvörðuháls: 5-day adventure itinerary & planning guide

    15 July 2026
  • Buni Jezercës (Great Valley of Lakes)

    Peaks of the Balkans: the ultimate 12-day hiking route & complete planning guide

    10 July 2026
  • Valbona Valley guesthouses

    Peaks of the Balkans guesthouses: what to expect (+ best 2026 guesthouses)

    8 July 2026
  • Hiking to the Ropojana Valley

    Complete Peaks of the Balkans packing list

    6 July 2026
  • Descending from Valbona Pass into Valbona

    Peaks of the Balkans (Day 12): Theth to Valbona

    2 July 2026

@brookebeyond_
brooke ✨travel & mountain gal

@brookebeyond_

  • One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
  • Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
  • And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
  • The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
  • Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
  • We just wrapped up an incredible 12-day Peaks of the Balkans circuit that brought us through 220km of the Accursed Mountains in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, plus 7 additional summits off the standard route. And it was AMAZING!! 🍾🥂 This is the first multi-day hike I’ve done since my knee surgery last year, and there’s still a loongggggg road ahead to get back to where I was athletically… but this feels like a significant milestone on that journey. And aside from the physical one, this year has taken me on a rather unexpected emotional journey, too. The peril of tying too much of your self-worth to any one activity is the inevitable sense of loss that results from *suddenly not being able to do that activity*. And I spent a lot of this past year asking myself “without the mountains and without the next harder summit, who even are you?” Forced to experience life at a slower pace, to do things I would have previously dismissed as “too easy” and to find personal satisfaction in them anyway, a lot of unintended growth happened. I found a way to still be me on the easy route, or even on no route at all. Particularly as I navigate the realities of chronic injury and illness where the next surgery may be lurking just around the corner, this has brought me some peace. But DANG, it feels really good to be here RIGHT NOW, doing what I love in this fragile but mobile body 🏔️🖤 — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #montenegro #kosovo #balkans
  • a collection of some of my favourite photos after 5 trips to Egypt— this has really become one of my favourite destinations, and no doubt we will be back! — #egypt #pyramids #travelegypt #valleyofthekings #karnaktemple
  • The magic of being completely alone in Petra ✨ … alongside the sadness of knowing what this emptiness means for the locals who depend on a steady flow of tourism in order to feed their families. Preparing to run our most recent group trip, there was a lot of apprehension from our guests about travelling to Jordan with the ongoing war in Iran. Not dissimilar to the trips we ran last year or the year before, both in the midst of the Gaza war next-door. Foreign media loves to paint the Middle East as one homogeneous (and incredibly dangerous) region, but the reality is that Jordan has remained stable & safe through decades of neighbouring conflict. And this has been no exception! I’m unbelievably grateful that every single one of our participants trusted us with this trip, that they fell in love with Jordan just like we knew they would— and most of all, that they’ll be able to take home stories of warmth, welcome, and wonder that might start to shift the narrative. The truth is that Jordan feels as safe as ever, and there’s possibly no better time to visit than right now: when you’ll enjoy it all to yourself AND when it truly means so much 🖤🇯🇴 — #jordan #petra #jordantravel #traveljordan @experiencejordanadventures
  • Long before the Nile was crowded with large-scale cruise ships, it beckoned aristocrats, archaeologists, artists & adventurers who explored Egypt aboard elegant wooden sailing boats known as dahabiya. Popular throughout the 19th century, these graceful boats eventually fell out of fashion as motorised cruise ships became the new standard, but about 20 years ago, @nourelnil set out to revive the golden age of Nile travel with a small fleet of traditional wooden dahabiya. We’ve been on 3 Nile cruises in the last 3 years and loved every experience, but actually *sailing* the Nile was indescribably special. While most Nile Cruises spend surprisingly little time actually cruising (and a lot of time docked in Luxor or Aswan, effectively operating like a floating hotel), we spent six leisurely days sailing from Esna to Aswan beneath striped canvas sails— the longest sailing time of any boat operating on the river. Surrendering to the rhythm of the Nile, an entirely new side of Egypt unfurls before you: empty temples, lush islands, village markets, and remote stretches of the river that feel almost undiscovered. Nour El Nil is a celebration of the destinations that emerge when you slow to appreciate the journey ✨ — #nilecruise #egypt #dahabiya #nileriver #egypttravel
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  • One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
  • Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
  • And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
  • The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
  • Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
  • We just wrapped up an incredible 12-day Peaks of the Balkans circuit that brought us through 220km of the Accursed Mountains in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, plus 7 additional summits off the standard route. And it was AMAZING!! 🍾🥂 This is the first multi-day hike I’ve done since my knee surgery last year, and there’s still a loongggggg road ahead to get back to where I was athletically… but this feels like a significant milestone on that journey. And aside from the physical one, this year has taken me on a rather unexpected emotional journey, too. The peril of tying too much of your self-worth to any one activity is the inevitable sense of loss that results from *suddenly not being able to do that activity*. And I spent a lot of this past year asking myself “without the mountains and without the next harder summit, who even are you?” Forced to experience life at a slower pace, to do things I would have previously dismissed as “too easy” and to find personal satisfaction in them anyway, a lot of unintended growth happened. I found a way to still be me on the easy route, or even on no route at all. Particularly as I navigate the realities of chronic injury and illness where the next surgery may be lurking just around the corner, this has brought me some peace. But DANG, it feels really good to be here RIGHT NOW, doing what I love in this fragile but mobile body 🏔️🖤 — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #montenegro #kosovo #balkans
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
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One of the best-kept secrets in the Albanian Alps is Buni Jezercës, the Great Valley of Lakes ✨ With Peaks of the Balkans and countless day hikes passing through the neighbouring Ropojana Valley, Buni Jezercës feels totally untouched— yet it’s home to the tallest & most spectacular peaks in the range, ripe for the scrambling. Of all the incredible places we experienced hiking through these mountains for 12 days, this was truly the highlight! I’m already planning a return trip with a tent so we can post up for a bit and climb everything in sight… >>> On a related note, my Peaks of the Balkans planning guide is finally done!! It is LONG but totally worth the read for anyone looking to tackle the most epic version of POB! 🔗 brookebeyond.com/peaks-of-the-balkans — #peaksofthebalkans #bunijezerces #majajezerce #albania #albanianalps
3 days ago
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Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
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Can you guess which photos are from which?! After visiting two summers in a row, we’re convinced that Montenegro is the new Dolomites (that’s right, these are ALL from Montenegro!). Amazing trail infrastructure and incredible limestone peaks, but without the crowds 🤩🤩 Photos from Prokletije National Park, Maganik Mountains, and Durmitor National Park— we can’t wait to get back to explore more!! __ #peaksofthebalkans #durmitornationalpark #prokletije #accursedmountains #dolomites
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/6
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
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And finally, some photos from the Montenegro section of our Peaks of the Balkans route! We totally fell in love with the hiking in this country on our road trip last year (there are SO many amazing mountains here!!!), and the most recent adventure just cemented what we already knew: Montenegro is one of Europe’s most underrated hiking destinations. 🔗 check out our road-trip itinerary: brookebeyond.com/montenegro-itinerary (ALSO IN BIO) — #peaksofthebalkans #montenegro #prokletije #accursedmountains #prokletijenationalpark
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
3/6
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
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The second-youngest country in the world and still flying under the radar for most travellers, Kosovo completely surprised us! We spent 5 days hiking through Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park as part of our Peaks of the Balkans loop, and the limestone peaks, alpine lakes, newly-minted via ferrata routes, and warm Balkan hospitality were a genuine highlight. I have a feeling you’ll be seeing more of little Kosovo soon! — #peaksofthebalkans #kosovo #hiking #gjeravica #viaferrata
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
4/6
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
@brookebeyond_
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Just a few of my favourite photos from the Albania section of our 12-day Peaks of the Balkans hike! These days contained some of the biggest alpine scenery anywhere on the trail, and we were pretty star-struck as we hiked through Valbona, Theth, Prosllopit Pass, the Great Valley of Lakes, and up to the summit of Maja Bojës! — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #theth #valbona #hiking
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
5/6
We just wrapped up an incredible 12-day Peaks of the Balkans circuit that brought us through 220km of the Accursed Mountains in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, plus 7 additional summits off the standard route. And it was AMAZING!! 🍾🥂 This is the first multi-day hike I’ve done since my knee surgery last year, and there’s still a loongggggg road ahead to get back to where I was athletically… but this feels like a significant milestone on that journey. And aside from the physical one, this year has taken me on a rather unexpected emotional journey, too. The peril of tying too much of your self-worth to any one activity is the inevitable sense of loss that results from *suddenly not being able to do that activity*. And I spent a lot of this past year asking myself “without the mountains and without the next harder summit, who even are you?” Forced to experience life at a slower pace, to do things I would have previously dismissed as “too easy” and to find personal satisfaction in them anyway, a lot of unintended growth happened. I found a way to still be me on the easy route, or even on no route at all. Particularly as I navigate the realities of chronic injury and illness where the next surgery may be lurking just around the corner, this has brought me some peace. But DANG, it feels really good to be here RIGHT NOW, doing what I love in this fragile but mobile body 🏔️🖤 — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #montenegro #kosovo #balkans
We just wrapped up an incredible 12-day Peaks of the Balkans circuit that brought us through 220km of the Accursed Mountains in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, plus 7 additional summits off the standard route. And it was AMAZING!! 🍾🥂 This is the first multi-day hike I’ve done since my knee surgery last year, and there’s still a loongggggg road ahead to get back to where I was athletically… but this feels like a significant milestone on that journey. And aside from the physical one, this year has taken me on a rather unexpected emotional journey, too. The peril of tying too much of your self-worth to any one activity is the inevitable sense of loss that results from *suddenly not being able to do that activity*. And I spent a lot of this past year asking myself “without the mountains and without the next harder summit, who even are you?” Forced to experience life at a slower pace, to do things I would have previously dismissed as “too easy” and to find personal satisfaction in them anyway, a lot of unintended growth happened. I found a way to still be me on the easy route, or even on no route at all. Particularly as I navigate the realities of chronic injury and illness where the next surgery may be lurking just around the corner, this has brought me some peace. But DANG, it feels really good to be here RIGHT NOW, doing what I love in this fragile but mobile body 🏔️🖤 — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #montenegro #kosovo #balkans
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
We just wrapped up an incredible 12-day Peaks of the Balkans circuit that brought us through 220km of the Accursed Mountains in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, plus 7 additional summits off the standard route. And it was AMAZING!! 🍾🥂 This is the first multi-day hike I’ve done since my knee surgery last year, and there’s still a loongggggg road ahead to get back to where I was athletically… but this feels like a significant milestone on that journey. And aside from the physical one, this year has taken me on a rather unexpected emotional journey, too. The peril of tying too much of your self-worth to any one activity is the inevitable sense of loss that results from *suddenly not being able to do that activity*. And I spent a lot of this past year asking myself “without the mountains and without the next harder summit, who even are you?” Forced to experience life at a slower pace, to do things I would have previously dismissed as “too easy” and to find personal satisfaction in them anyway, a lot of unintended growth happened. I found a way to still be me on the easy route, or even on no route at all. Particularly as I navigate the realities of chronic injury and illness where the next surgery may be lurking just around the corner, this has brought me some peace. But DANG, it feels really good to be here RIGHT NOW, doing what I love in this fragile but mobile body 🏔️🖤 — #peaksofthebalkans #albania #montenegro #kosovo #balkans
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
6/6

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