Beat the Florida Heat With a Balkan Hiking Adventure
Florida is known for being sunny most of the year, but there are some problems with the shiny nature of the state. On the one hand, there are beautiful sandy beaches and constant sunshine year round, but on the other hand, there are high humidity levels and extremely hot weather in the summertime. The state ranks first in the nation for heat-related illnesses, according to a new report. For those who are tired of the hot weather and dream of traveling north, a hiking trip to the Balkans may be just what the doctor ordered.
Located between Central and Southeastern Europe, the Balkan region is enchanted with a variety of natural attractions, unspoiled areas, and a cool climate – perfect for a summer vacation. Montenegro boasts dramatic cliffs, while Bosnia and Herzegovina and the surrounding areas offer gentle hills for those who are more into hiking.
Cooler Climate
Florida is not a state for those who like to bask in the sun throughout the day because the heat and humidity are just too much. The Balkan region, in contrast, can present summer as a rather fresh season, mainly in the mountains. Thus, some of the coastal areas of the region are still relatively warm while the mountains of Montenegro and Northern Bosnia as well as Northern Albania are cooler in summer or even in the hottest time – August.
Just imagine waking up on a summer morning and the temperature is 60°F, while it is very hot in Florida. These areas receive fresh air and cool weather during the night due to the mountains helping to condition the environment and regulate temperature.
Hiking Trails for All Levels
the Balkans are full of hiking opportunities and there is something to choose for each type of inclination. No matter whether you are an amateur who is looking for a simple pleasant walk in beautiful topography or an experienced trekker who wants to complete a complex several days’ trek, the area presents paths for everybody.
Montenegro: Durmitor National Park
For those who would like to be more impressed with the sharp rocks of the mountains, Montenegro has a wonderful place to offer – Durmitor National Park. Featuring gigantic mountains, deep gorges, and an extensive glaciated lake it is a place to marvel at. As for the hiking opportunities, the park provides easy walking around the stunning Black Lake and more travel to the Bobotov Kuk – Montenegro’s top. Likely at the summit, the outlook is beyond magnificent. It provides a breathtaking view of rock-strewn mountains and a virile overgrown country.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Sutjeska
This is a well-developed National Park of the Republic of Srpska, the Serb Republic situated in the southeastern region of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It boasts of the country’s highest mountain, the Maglić Mountain which soars to a height of 7,828 feet. This park can also be considered to be more suitable for hikers who desire to take a path that is less traveled at times. The trek to Maglić is quite a steep one however the view that you are rewarded with is one of the most breathtaking. For those living in Florida, these steep mountains will be an exciting change to go hiking.
Albania: Peaks of the Balkans
For a more adventurous hiker, the Peaks of the Balkans map offers a unique opportunity to trek through three different countries: Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. This circuit covers 120 miles with a route that goes through different villages, overpasses, and clear watered rivers. The trail usually takes from 10 to 15 days and thus can be described as a pure long-distance path– an ideal option for travelers interested in enjoying the performances of the Balkans’ wilderness.
Cultural Experience
The culture of the area is marked strongly with roots in the Ottoman Empire and the Roman Empire as well as with different Slavonic peoples. During your hike, you will cross country areas with small village-like havens that are untouched by the modern world. The people are generally welcoming and friendly. A hiker may well be invited into a house for a meal of locally produced products such as fresh cheese, honey, and bread.
While touring Montenegro and Bosnia you can start seeing various examples of medieval architecture such as fortresses and monasteries and even the evidence of the conflict existing in the area in the form of memorials and monuments. Hiking through this region of the world is perhaps one of the most informative undertakings you can engage in. Certainly, it is an experience that is light years away from the historical theme parks and tourist attractions.
Of all these benefits, you cannot argue that the cost of hiking Trip Balkans is quite affordable. Taking into account the visiting of more popular hiking trails in Europe like the Alps or the Pyrenees the Balkans can be considered much cheaper. Bearing the cost of food, local guesthouse, and transport, it is affordable to people willing to explore charming sceneries and having once in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
To Sum Up, if you are a Sunshine State resident who is tired of the incessant heat and humidity, a hiking adventure in the Balkans will solve all your problems perfectly. The mild temperatures, beautiful scenery, a variety of walks and trails that are truly mesmerizing, and the cultural experience of the Balkan region could be the perfect fit for your summer. Additionally, the Balkans offer a multitude of recreational activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, and kayaking, making it a multifunctional outdoor oasis for adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike through lush forests or an adrenaline-pumping experience, the Balkans have it all. So, if you’re in need of a break from the Florida heat, consider embarking on a hiking adventure in the Balkans and exploring their multifunctional outdoor oasis ideas.
