Zvërnec Island and Narta Lagoon

The island of Zvërnec (Ishulli i Zvërnecit) is a popular tourist attraction in the vicinity of Vlorë not only for its magical location in the middle of the Narta Lagoon (Laguna e Nartës), but also for the presence of the Byzantine monastery. The island is connected to the mainland by a 250-meter-long wooden causeway.

The exact date of the Monastery of the Virgin Mary (Manastiri i Shën Mërisë) is unknown, however, it is believed to have been constructed in the 13th or 14th century. The current structures mostly date back to the 16th century, with subsequent renovations and additions. The interior of the church is adorned with well-preserved frescoes that depict religious scenes and figures.

In 1967, the monks were expelled under the atheist campaign, and the island was converted to a prison for political convicts.

The island is covered and surrounded by a pine forest and offers scenic views of the Narta Lagoon. The setting, combined with the historical and religious significance of the site, makes it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.

You can reach the island by car or taxi from Vlorë (10 km). Park by the footbridge, which is free to walk across. The secured area is open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 from May to August and from 8:00 to 16:00 the rest of the year.

Some nice beaches are located on the narrow spit that separates Narta Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. It is about three kilometres from the footbridge. The first of the beaches can be reached by regular cars on a gravel road, the place is especially popular among campers. See map.

One of the hills separating the Narta Lagoon from the sea (the one with the lighthouse) is dotted with concrete bunkers built during the communist dictatorship. Among other things, drawings of vessels of the invasion fleet that never invaded Albania have been preserved here.

The Narta Lagoon is one of the most important wetland areas in Albania as it is home to 3,000 flamingos. The elegant feathered animals returned here a few years ago after a hiatus of more than 20 years caused by illegal hunting. Also, over 200 Dalmatian Pelicans can be seen here. The northern part of the lagoon is used for saltworks.

Cover photo Jakub Hrab

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