Exploring Shutman Lake in the Sharr Mountains: A Southern Kosovo Adventure

· updated · 2 min read
A hiker crosses a snow-patched valley toward Shutman Lake beneath a cloudy sky in the Sharr Mountains
Exploring Shutman Lake in the Sharr Moun…, Kosovo
Distance
11.1 km
Ascent
+866 m
Descent
−810 m
High point
2,273 m
Water
Two water sources along the trailcarry at least 2 liters

The route

Exploring Shutman Lake in the Sharr Moun…, on the map

Two ways to walk it, both from my own GPX tracks. Pick one: the map, the profile and the numbers follow.

Distance11.1km
Ascent+866m
Descent−810m
High point2,273m

Walking time at your paceAn estimate without breaks, worked out from the distance and the climb.

  • Relaxed7 h 20 min
  • Average5 h 55 min
  • Fast4 h 45 min

Elevation

Elevation profile of Exploring Shutman Lake in the Sharr Mountains: A Southern Kosovo AdventureStarts at 1,461 m, climbs 866 m in total to a high point of 2,266 m after 6.0 km, and finishes at 1,467 m; 11.1 km in all.1,500 m2,000 m0 km2 km4 km6 km8 km10 kmHotel ArxhenaShutman peak · 2,266 m

How steep

  • 3.3 kmUnder 8%
  • 2.3 km8 to 15%
  • 3.8 km15 to 25%
  • 1.7 kmOver 25%

In two parts

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What to pack13 things, for a summit, a swim

Every hike

For the summit

Water and sun

The light for photographs

Today at Shutman peak: sunrise 06:10, sunset 16:30.

Today at Shutman peak: sunrise 06:10, sunset 16:30.

At Shutman peak, 2,266 m, in local time (Europe/Belgrade), with an open horizon: the mountains around can hide the sun sooner.

In short

This hike in Kosovo’s Sharr Mountains starts at Hotel Arxhena near Brod and leads to Shutman Lake. The route is 11.1 km, with 866 m of ascent and 810 m of descent. Its high point is 2,273 m, and there are two water sources along the trail; carry at least 2 litres.

Nestled in the heart of the Sharr Mountains, Shutman Lake is a stunning glacial lake and one of the largest in the region. Situated at 2,070 meters, this pristine lake near Brod in southern Kosovo offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.

A hiker crosses a snow-patched valley toward Shutman Lake beneath a cloudy sky in the Sharr Mountains

How to Get There

To reach Shutman Lake, begin your journey in the village of Brod, part of the town of Dragash in southern Kosovo. Your route starts in Prizren, from where you’ll drive to Dragash, passing through several picturesque villages. Dragash is your last supply stop, so stock up at the local supermarket. From Dragash, follow the signs to Hotel “Arxhena,” the starting point for your hike. You can park your car at the hotel and even enjoy a meal at the restaurant. In winter, Arxhena transforms into a popular ski resort with excellent pistes.

The Brod – Shutman Lake Hike

Snow patches cover the slopes around Shutman Lake in Kosovo beneath a blue, cloud-filled sky

Begin your hike at Hotel Arxhena, following the well-marked trail. Early in the hike, you’ll encounter a river, which serves as a convenient water source. The trail ascends through meadow terrain, crossing the river via a wooden bridge. Continue uphill along a sheep’s path, and you’ll soon reach a mountain hut—an excellent shelter in case of bad weather. From the hut, the lake is approximately 1.5 kilometers away. Along the final ascent, you’ll find another clean and cold water source.

Upon reaching Shutman Lake, you’ll be greeted by its serene beauty, making it an ideal spot for a picnic and relaxation with friends and family.

Hiking Tips

Bring at least 2 liters of water, despite the availability of two water sources along the trail.
The trail offers an elevation gain of 866 meters, starting from 1,488 meters and reaching the highest point of 2,273 meters.

Points of Interest

Starting Point: Brod, Kosovo
Starting Altitude: 1,488 meters
Highest Altitude: 2,273 meters
Elevation Gain: 866 meters

Enjoy your adventure to Shutman Lake, a hidden gem in the Sharr Mountains!

*The trail ends to Shutman peak. You need to go straight ahead for around 300 meters to the lake.

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Granit Temaj

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