Overview
The grand finale — the ascent of Mt. Gramoz (2,523 m), the southern giant and the end point of the Shepherd's Trail. A long, demanding day of nearly 1,900 m of climbing rewards you with the summit panorama before the long descent to Starje. After twelve days afoot, the journey from the Ionian shore is complete.
Trail profile
Trail description
From the cobblestones of Rehovë (1,160 m), the final stage sets out on the long climb toward the Gramoz massif — almost 1,900 metres of ascent across pastures, scree and ridgeline to the 2,523-metre summit, Maja e Gramozit. This is a full mountain day: an early start, sure footing and good weather are essential.
From the top, the panorama stretches across the borderlands of Albania and Greece, the Pindus Mountains, and back along the whole spine of the south you have walked. From the summit the trail descends the long way down to the village of Starje, closing the 192-kilometre journey of the Shepherd's Trail.
An alternative finish leads via Gramozi Lake. Given the length and exposure of this final day, hiking with a local mountain guide is strongly recommended.
Accommodation & services
This final stage is a summit day with no accommodation on the mountain. Base yourself in Rehovë the night before (see Stage 11) and arrange onward transport from Starje. A local mountain guide is strongly recommended for the Gramoz ascent.
Nearby attractions
Maja e Gramozit (2,523 m)
The highest point of the Shepherd's Trail and the symbolic end of the transhumance route, on the Albania–Greece border, with vast views over the Pindus Mountains.
Gramozi Lake (alternative)
An alpine lake high on the Gramoz massif, offering an alternative variant for the final stage.