Accursed Mountain Snakes

Buni i Jezerce is a mountain basin that contains, in the right conditions, four small glacial lakes. We had heard that at least one should have water now. We set out on foot to check if this was true.

After a steep path up through the forest shade, up on the plateau, we came to the stone. This marked the border with Albania. Kiran was excited at his first border crossing on foot, after the last one on bike. After some gestures of cross-border diplomacy, we walked on to the basin lakes.

The water was wonderful and refreshing! Out of the bright green moss on the lake bed emerged a little snake. It looked harmless but sent Kiran scurrying. After lounging for lunch, we headed back down the same path we came up on. Great views!

At the water spout we wanted to drink, sat a Horned Viper curled up in a slender staircase of deadly diamonds. Marveling at this very venomous snake guarding the water of the accursed mountains, we traced our way back down to the valley. We saw a long grass snake on the way down. Great snake day!

Despite having hiked all day, Kiran was keen to pack up camp and move on to the next valley. "For more exploration papa!". I think it's because he wants to try to a night ride. So in the fading sunlight, we rattled and rolled down the crazy rock path out of this beautiful valley.Read more