Ever stood inside a Cold War nuclear bunker built to survive an atomic blast? Across the Balkans, these strange concrete domes have become a unique part of the landscape. Built by Tito's communist regime in Yugoslavia and Enver Hoxha in Albania, Balkan bunkers are some of the most fascinating Cold War relics you can explore on our adventure holidays in Europe. From Albania’s mushroom-shaped bunkers dotted across beaches and mountains to Tito’s secret nuclear shelter hidden in the Bosnian hills, Balkan bunkers show us what it was like to live under paranoid surveillance states. With military tensions once again creeping into the news, these subterranean worlds feel newly relevant. Eerie though they are, local people have been turning old communist bunkers into everything from museums and tattoo studios to wine cellars. Being adventure travellers, we love exploring these hidden - and scenic - places. Scroll down to find out how we seek out the best Balkan bunkers on our Albania, Bosnia and Serbia hiking holidays : Albania: the capital of Balkan bunkers If there is a global capital of communist bunkers, Albania claims it hands down. Under the paranoid dictatorship of Enver Hoxha, the country was sealed off from the world and obsessively fortified against imagined invasion. Between the 1960s and 1980s, an estimated 173,000 to 750,000 were constructed, giving Albania he highest concentration of Cold War bunkers anywhere in the Balkans – and arguably the world. These surreal mushroom-shaped domes were designed so that every citizen could, in theory, help defend the country. You don’t need to hunt for bunkers in Albania – they appear everywhere, like giant stealth tortoises. In city parks, perched above beaches, sunk into vineyards and looming over mountain passes. Some have been painted with bright yellow emojis, others turned into tattoo parlours. In Tirana,
Ever stood inside a Cold War nuclear bunker built to survive an atomic blast? Across the Balkans, these strange concrete domes have become a unique part of the landscape. Built by Tito’s communist regime in Yugoslavia and Enver Hoxha in Albania, Balkan bunkers are some of the most fascinating Cold War relics you can explore
Wine, like rakia, is woven into any Balkan adventure. It is poured generously at guesthouse tables, shared after long hikes, and produced in vineyards that cling to steep hillsides, river valleys and sunbaked plains. This week, we sat down with Dušan Jelić of @winesofserbia to talk Balkan wine regions and wines. Dušan has worked in the wine world for decades, and has seen the Balkan viticulture move from post-communist recovery to producing world class award-winning pours, all within 20 years. Sadly, many of these bottles are hard to find in the UK or USA, which is all the more reason to travel to the country of origin and combine wine discovery with an Undiscovered Balkans adventure. For Dušan, the vineyards of South-East Europe offer something unique: "Winemakers are warm, deeply hospitable and welcome you with an authenticity we have lost elsewhere. You will experience indigenous grapes you have never tasted before." (For example, Prokupac, Tamjanika, Plavac Mali and Žilavka - names that sound more like incantations than grapes). Best of all, says Dušan, "Wine is always paired with the Balkans' exotic cuisine that fuses Mediterranean, Ottoman and local influences. Don't forget that enjoying Balkan food and wine is budget-friendly! " Dušan has kindly given us his tips on native grapes, top Balkan wine labels and local festivals, which we've paired with our adventures to nearby mountains, lakes and historic towns to create a practical guide to the main wine regions in the Balkans. Related: A guide to Albanian food and wine 10 traditional Balkan foods you have to try How to drink Bosnian coffee the right way Balkan Wine Regions: a Country-by-Country Guide Croatian wine Events: Biklijada When: September 2026 Where: Vrgorac Croatia does niche, local and authentic festivals like no other. Did you know that there is even a
Wine, like rakia, is woven into any Balkan adventure. It is poured generously at guesthouse tables, shared after long hikes, and produced in vineyards that cling to steep hillsides, river valleys and sunbaked plains. This week, we sat down with Dušan Jelić of @winesofserbia to talk Balkan wine regions and wines. Dušan has worked in
This week, we invited journalist and travel writer Camilla Bell-Davies to be a guest blogger and tell us which Balkan countries are on her radar in 2026. Camilla lived in Serbia and often travelled to Bosnia and Kosovo for a change of scene. She wrote about Balkans travel for The Financial Times, The Guardian and Telegraph Travel. I first stumbled into the Western Balkans as a student backpacker in the 2010s and was instantly drawn to its rich culture and gorgeous landscapes. It wasn't long before I made the Balkans my permanent home, as a writer based in Belgrade. With free reign to wander, I came to know the many wonderful places on the Undiscovered Balkans radar. Every country has so much to recommend, but if I was to pick the top three rising stars for 2026, it would be these: Beyond Belgrade: Serbia's wild places I may be bias given I lived there, but 2026 really is the moment for Serbia to step into the spotlight. The country saw record visitor numbers in 2024 and 2025, travel magazines are calling it 'Europe's most under-the-radar destination', and it has affordable prices that make slow, immersive travel possible. I say visit now before Serbia becomes the next big thing! Belgrade, Tašmajdan park in the snow Serbian hospitality is soulful and spontaneous, guesthouses are rustic and full of charm, and cities feel refreshingly untouristy. Venture beyond Belgrade’s café-lined streets and legendary nightlife to the wild 'Eagle Canyon', or the mighty Iron Gates at Djerdap Gorge on the Danube river, where you can kayak for hours to peaceful birdsong. Going with a local guide is the best way to enjoy a Serbia adventure. Belgrade has seen peaceful student protests ongoing for a year, but these are confined to
This week, we invited journalist and travel writer Camilla Bell-Davies to be a guest blogger and tell us which Balkan countries are on her radar in 2026. Camilla lived in Serbia and often travelled to Bosnia and Kosovo for a change of scene. She wrote about Balkans travel for The Financial Times, The Guardian and
If taking on a marathon, triathlon or other sporting challenge is in your New Year’s resolutions, why not tag a holiday onto it? Apparently it’s a thing: the ‘race-cation’ (when you complete some sort of outdoor challenge either side of a holiday) is rising in popularity and we're here for it—what a great excuse to book a holiday! The Balkans is host to lots of marathons, triathlons, vertical kilometres and swim races in 2026, where you’ll compete against the backdrop of the Dinaric Alps, Dalmatian coast, ancient forests and crumbling old towns. Many pair up nicely with our adventure holidays. Read on to find out what's happening in Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia and more throughout 2026 and start planning your race-cation now. Marathons & sporting events in Croatia 2026 From running to wild swimming and high-altitude challenges, there’s lots for sporty folk in Croatia. After an adrenaline-fuelled event with hundreds of people, slow things down and rejuvenate with our Southern Dalmatia holiday, which blends sightseeing with adventure activities in the incredibly pretty and peaceful Ston. XTERRA Croatia When: 8–10th May 2026 Where: Mali Lošinj This three-day off-road triathlon takes place in the beautiful coastal town of Mali Lošinj and offers thrilling challenges for all abilities, from elite competitors to weekend warriors and kids. Over the course of three days, you’ll trail run, swim and mountain bike your way to victory. Youth Skyrunning World Championships When: 8–10th May 2026 Where: Makarska This year will be the 10th edition of the Youth Skyrunning World Championships in Croatia, where young athletes embark on a scenic high altitude running challenge in the picturesque port town of Makarska. UltraSwim 33.3 Croatia When: 15–18th May 2026 Where: Hvar Hvar isn’t just for beach parties—the UltraSwim 33.3 open-water swim challenge starts in the ancient town of
If taking on a marathon, triathlon or other sporting challenge is in your New Year’s resolutions, why not tag a holiday onto it? Apparently it’s a thing: the ‘race-cation’ (when you complete some sort of outdoor challenge either side of a holiday) is rising in popularity and we’re here for it—what a great excuse to
In need of a warm and sunny escape to Europe in spring? Look no further than the Balkans. Being in southern Europe, you can expect mild to warm weather in Croatia, Montenegro and Albania from April onwards while the UK is still thawing out. Not only that, but it’s one of the most beautiful times in terms of nature—wild orchids, blossoms, nightingales singing and Dalmatian Pelican hatchlings on Lake Skadar. Vivid green landscapes are contrasted with snow-capped mountains into May and Lake Skadar is strewn with lilypads. No wonder then that it’s co-founder Emma’s favourite season. Below, we’ve listed some of the best holidays to take in the Balkans in spring and what weather conditions to expect between April and June. Related: Where to find hot weather & adventure in the Balkans in September From eSIMs to currency: Preparing to travel in the Balkans Which Balkan country is best to visit? Albania in spring The shoulder season is the best time for active holidays in Albania as it’s warm without being too hot—plus you can enjoy the hiking trails without the crowds (not that that’s a major issue in the Balkans compared to other European destinations). You won’t be short of walks in Albania’s Accursed Mountains. While it’s too early to hike the high mountain pass between Theth and Valbona in spring, there are tons of equally stunning rambles. It’s perfect timing to try our new hut-to-hut hiking adventure in the remote Zagoria region—our alternative hiking destination to Spain’s overtrodden Camino de Santiago. Here you’ll immerse yourself not only in incredible natural surroundings as you trace ancient caravan routes, but traditional ways of life when you stay with shepherd families. A great holiday in Albania to consider with the kids during the Easter break is our multi-activity holiday. There’s plenty
In need of a warm and sunny escape to Europe in spring? Look no further than the Balkans. Being in southern Europe, you can expect mild to warm weather in Croatia, Montenegro and Albania from April onwards while the UK is still thawing out. Not only that, but it’s one of the most beautiful times
14th December 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the end of the Bosnian War. In that time, a lot has changed. Bosnia and Herzegovina has rebuilt and it’s now a fascinating country to explore with Ottoman ruins, a rich history, an eclectic fusion of cultures and creeds, and breathtaking landscapes for outdoor adventures. But despite the time that has passed, many ask: ‘Is Bosnia safe?’ “It’s a question that understandably comes up considering our past,” says our guide Skender. “But today’s Bosnia is peaceful and very welcoming to tourists. In my years of guiding, I’ve seen countless tourists experience our country’s beauty without any safety concerns. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come and the peace that now defines our homeland.” Those who know this first-hand are our guests Katy and Mark Latymer who visited this summer on our Bosnia Multi Activity Holiday. The Balkans had already captured their hearts on previous visits to Croatia, Montenegro and Slovenia, so they weren’t complete newbies to the region. But Bosnia has left a lasting impression. “Bosnia just pips it in my affections because of the magnificent scenery, the food and of course the coffee!” says Katy. “Bosnian food surprised me. It’s not a country people think of for great culinary joys but my goodness did I LOVE the food…Slow cooked meats and peppers with very tasty sauces, wonderful fish and sides, etc. Just such great food which is at least 50% of enjoyment for any holiday.” “In addition the whole group just couldn’t get enough of Bosnian coffee. It’s like Turkish [coffee] but better. (We went to Turkey as well this year and agreed Bosnian coffee was another level up).” Related: Meet Skender, our Bosnia adventure leader Bosnia: 9 things to see and do with kids What to see and do
14th December 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the end of the Bosnian War. In that time, a lot has changed. Bosnia and Herzegovina has rebuilt and it’s now a fascinating country to explore with Ottoman ruins, a rich history, an eclectic fusion of cultures and creeds, and breathtaking landscapes for outdoor adventures. But despite
Cultural heritage isn’t kept behind museum glass in the Balkans—it’s lived, breathed, eaten, sung, crafted and danced. From Ottoman cities like Berat and Mostar to natural wonders such as Durmitor National Park, Albanian folk singing to lacemaking in Croatia, UNESCO World Heritage in the Balkans is a multi-sensory tapestry of the region’s diverse natural and cultural offerings. In light of Lake Skadar being nominated to become a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in October 2025, we’ve rounded up some of the region’s cultural and natural highlights—many of which you can see on our holidays in Montenegro, Albania, Serbia, Bulgaria and Croatia. UNESCO natural heritage in the Balkans Durmitor National Park, Montenegro Characterized by towering limestone peaks and glacial lakes, Durmitor National Park in Montenegro is undeniably breathtaking. It’s home to one of Europe’s deepest canyons and the stunning Black Lake. “I’ll never forget my first glimpse of Durmitor National Park, like a real-life Hobbit land, all jagged peaks in stunning formations, and wispy clouds, with wild horses roaming the grassy meadows,” says UB co-founder Emma. “The landscape’s so epic it’s hard to take it all in.” Visit Durmitor National Park on our Montenegro family activity holiday. Lake Skadar, Montenegro & Albania Lake Skadar straddles the border between Montenegro and Albania and is the largest lake in Southern Europe at roughly 400 square kilometres (is actual size depends seasonal water level variations). This biodiversity hotspot is teeming with wildlife and an important nesting site for the endangered Dalmatian Pelican, which our guests love to spot during kayaking safaris on our Lake Skadar holiday, and on boat trips. In 2025, the Montenegrin and Albanian governments both nominated Lake Skadar to become a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which means it will enjoy greater environmental protection and extend the so-called 'Amazon of Europe' deeper into Southeast Europe.
Cultural heritage isn’t kept behind museum glass in the Balkans—it’s lived, breathed, eaten, sung, crafted and danced. From Ottoman cities like Berat and Mostar to natural wonders such as Durmitor National Park, Albanian folk singing to lacemaking in Croatia, UNESCO World Heritage in the Balkans is a multi-sensory tapestry of the region’s diverse natural and
Booking your September sun holiday in Europe and not sure where to go? Look no further than the Balkans. Croatia, Albania, Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina all remain hot and sunny well into October (which is why lots of our trips run until then). In fact, our active holidays such as hiking and kayaking trips are best enjoyed during shoulder season, when it’s slightly cooler. With the kids back in school, you’ll be holidaying with a more mature crowd—ideal timing as it’s wine making season and we’re known to linger longer at wineries for tastings when there are no children around. Or leave it until October for the chance to try making rakija and forage for pomegranates. Related: Festivals in Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Serbia & Kosovo in 2025 Where to enjoy autumn sunshine & adventure in the Balkans in October How fit do you need to be for an active holiday? (plus 8-week training plan) Croatia in September Ever been island hopping in Croatia? We bet you’ve never done it like this. Choose between two action-packed adventures in Southern Dalmatia in which you’ll kayak to some of Croatia’s best kept secrets and have a chance to see Dubrovnik with far fewer people clogging up its cobbled streets. Based in Ston, our seven-day Multi-Activity Holiday in Southern Dalmatia takes place around the beautiful Peljesac Peninsula, an hour away from Dubrovnik. You’ll discover the rich nature of the Neretva Delta, marvel at the lost Roman city of Narona, sip and cycle in Croatia’s wine country, taste some of the world’s best oysters and hike ‘Europe’s Great Wall of China’. There’s also the option to visit Dubrovnik for the day. Alternatively, paddle to secluded beaches, hidden caves and picture postcard monasteries around the Elafiti Islands on our 10 day Croatia to Montenegro lake
Booking your September sun holiday in Europe and not sure where to go? Look no further than the Balkans. Croatia, Albania, Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina all remain hot and sunny well into October (which is why lots of our trips run until then). In fact, our active holidays such as hiking and kayaking trips
If you’re in Albania, Montenegro or Croatia in July, your first question may be, "is it always this hot?" The answer is—well, yes. Welcome to a Balkan summer. ☀️ But unlike what some of the British media headlines might suggest, this is no freak heatwave. For those of us who live in the Balkans—and love nothing better than jumping into rivers or the sea, or kayaking to hidden beaches—this is just normal. It’s supposed to be hot in Southern Europe. That’s the point—and you just need to embrace it. Yes, temperatures can reach the high 30s, but this isn’t the sticky, airless heat of a terraced house in August. It’s dry, breezy and delightfully swimmable. The Mediterranean sun sets the pace here—and if you follow its rhythm, you’ll not only cope, you’ll thrive. Here’s how we—and our guests—stay cool, while loving every sweaty second of our adventure holidays. So, how hot is the Balkans in summer? Along the coast and inland valleys, daytime temperatures tend to hover around 35°C from late June to July and August, sometimes a little more. In higher areas, it can be 10-15 degrees cooler – another reason to love the mountains this region is famous for. The heat is dry, not humid. That means shade and water go a long way, and evenings are often breezy and a bit fresher. British guests sometimes find it a shock at first – but that’s mostly a matter of expectations. If you’re coming from 18C and drizzle, of course it’ll feel intense. But this isn’t dangerous heat, as long as you follow these top tips. Related: When’s the best time to visit the Balkans? How to pack light for an adventure holiday in the Balkans From eSIMs to currency: Preparing to travel in the Balkans Where to find
If you’re in Albania, Montenegro or Croatia in July, your first question may be, “is it always this hot?” The answer is—well, yes. Welcome to a Balkan summer. ☀️ But unlike what some of the British media headlines might suggest, this is no freak heatwave. For those of us who live in the Balkans—and love
Let’s get one thing straight: many of us who love outdoor adventures as adults weren’t sporty kids at school. I certainly wasn’t. I was a chunky tween who dreaded Sports Day and usually came last. In fact, it took until my twenties to discover I even liked the outdoors. My first real adventure? A three-day trek in Madagascar with Ben and two French backpackers we'd just met. I had no clue what I was doing, no fitness plan, and no appropriate gear. Just youthful stubbornness and a rucksack. I was so red-faced and out of breath, our local guide called me "Vaza Tomate" – the foreign tomato. But I made it. Fast-forward a fair few years and I co-run active holidays in the Balkans, where I regularly hike steep rocky inclines and kayak 12km. But I’ve still had my setbacks. In 2021, I ruptured my ACL skiing. I had reconstructive knee surgery in Dubrovnik, and just four months later, I was back on the trail, guiding hikes for guests at my villa in Montenegro. How? Determination, muscle memory, and the help of my brilliant physio Aleks, who let me train in a private gym bedecked with Balkan muscleman posters. Motivating, if a bit intimidating! So when guests ask me how fit do you need to be for an active holiday, or whether they'll need to train to go mountain hiking, the answer is: it depends. If you’re joining us for one of our standard activity weeks and you're in reasonable shape, you’ll be fine. But if you’re joining one of our multi-day hikes or super-active adventures, which take place in proper mountainous terrain, training is a really good idea – and might just transform your holiday. Are You Mountain-Ready? Take Our Balkan Fitness Test If you can comfortably tick off
Let’s get one thing straight: many of us who love outdoor adventures as adults weren’t sporty kids at school. I certainly wasn’t. I was a chunky tween who dreaded Sports Day and usually came last. In fact, it took until my twenties to discover I even liked the outdoors. My first real adventure? A three-day
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