Shkodra Lake is the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula and one of the most significant freshwater ecosystems in Europe. Spanning across the border with Montenegro, the lake is surrounded by mountains and is characterized by its diverse flora and fauna, making it a vital habitat for numerous bird species, including pelicans. On the lake’s shores, there are some charming villages and historic sites, such as the medieval Rozafa Castle near Shkodër. Shkodra Lake offers also opportunities for outdoor activities like bird watching, boat trips, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Counting 270 kinds of birds, the lake area is regarded by ornithologists as one of Europe’s major bird sanctuaries. One reason for the exceptionally clear waters is the approximately fifty springs that emerge from the bottom. The lake is also home to seven endemic fish species, such as the local carp (Krapi i Shkodrës), which is a renowned delicacy.
Montenegro and Albania share the lake. The Montenegrin part is a national park, while the Albanian a nature reserve. The most picturesque part of the lake is the Montenegro side (Virpazar, Rijeka Crnojevića, Vranjina etc.).
The eastern and northern shores of the lake, located in Albania, are flat, swampy and difficult to approach. In the southern section of the lake, where the shores rise into the hills, are the only two villages in the Albanian part, Shirokë and Zogaj. In recent years, they have become small resorts with plenty of accommodation and restaurants serving great fish dishes. There are also several small beaches suitable for swimming.
Shirokë in particular is now an attractive destination for day trips for Shkodër residents. The centre was renovated and a new promenade was built. There is a nice view of the village and the lake from the summer villa of King Zog I, which is located on the hill directly above the village square. Unfortunately, the structure is completely dilapidated and still awaiting a revamp.
TIP: Go to Shirokë by bike! It’s just eight kilometres from the centre of Shkodër. You’ll be rewarded with a view across the lake to the Albanian Alps. You can rent a bike here. If you want a guided ride, book here.
You can also enjoy a great view of the lake from the Rozafa Castle. From ancient times the castle guarded a route between the Adriatic Sea and the mountainous hinterland and is one of the most important cultural monuments in Albania.
The Shegan Eye (Syri i Sheganit) is a unique natural phenomenon located in a cove in the northern portion of the lake, making it one of the few places in the area where the lake’s shores are accessible. A dark blue pool formed by a rich karst spring is connected to Shkodra Lake by a stone bed. You can reach the place with a dirt road joining the Shkodër-Koplik highway. There’s also a restaurant close by.
Situated around seven kilometres from Shkodër in the town of Grilë, the camping Lake Shkodra Resort provides an excellent base for seeing Shkodra Lake and its environs. If you don’t have a camper, you may stay in chic chalets or tents, eat at excellent restaurants, and rent bicycles, paddleboards, or even pedalos. When combined with a beautiful beach, the location is perfect for kids and families.
The Scutari agency organises boat trips on the lake, its boats dock at the outlet of the Buna River from the lake. You can also rent a kayak or SUP to explore the shores of the lake.
Useful Links
Accommodation
Use Booking.com to find the best places to stay near Shkodra Lake.
Flights
Find the cheapest flight to Albania on Kiwi.com. It combines various airlines into a single itinerary.
Car Rental
Discover Albania with cheap & reliable car rentals through Rent from Locals.
Mobile data
Airalo provides affordable and convenient mobile data to keep you connected wherever you travel. Forget local SIM or roaming charges.
Experiences
Book a boat trip on Shkodra Lake with Viator.com.