In February 2016, The Faction Collective once again teamed up with Gear4guides on a new project. In conjunction with The Balkan Snow Cooperative and International Peace Park Expeditions, Faction athletes Sam Anthamatten and Arnaud Rougier travelled with Gear4guides to both Kosovo and Montenegro, to explore a cross-border section of the Hajla Peak in the Balkan mountain range.
Breaking Boundaries in the Balkans tells the story of Faction athletes Sam Anthamatten and Arnaud Rougier as they travelled to the Hajla region, and showcases the potential tourism opportunities on the untouched peaks of one of the most bio-diverse areas in the world. The athletes shared their skills and knowledge with the mountain groups on both sides of the border, educating them in mountain safety and skills. Travelling from hut to hut, Sam and Arnaud lead a group from Kosovo ski touring across the border into Montenegro. The first time this border has ever been crossed by ski, the journey marked an important transition in enabling the groups to work together, and in breaking the boundaries so the mountains can be enjoyed freely without borders.