Shkodra Lake

Lake Shkodra – A Peaceful Natural Gem on the Montenegro-Albania Border Lake Shkodra (or Skadar) is absolutely stunning — the largest lake in the Balkans, surrounded by dramatic mountains, wetlands, and charming villages. The scenery changes beautifully throughout the day, especially at sunrise and sunset when the water turns golden and reflects the surrounding hills. The Montenegrin side is particularly serene and perfect for a relaxing day trip or weekend stay. There are lovely small guesthouses and restaurants near Virpazar offering fresh fish and local wine. Boat tours are highly recommended — you can see hidden monasteries, floating water lilies, pelicans, and an incredible variety of birds. For those who enjoy nature, photography, or quiet outdoor activities, Lake Shkodra is a paradise. You can go kayaking, cycling along the lakeshore, or just sit by the water and enjoy the peace. The area feels authentic and not overly commercialized, which makes it even more special. Roads are good, and the national park staff are helpful.

"Lake Skodra is Albania's hidden paradise. Peace, scenery, and the simplicity of nature... All combined in one place. Even the reflection of the sky on the water is soothing. It should definitely be added to your itinerary."

Lake Shkodra is absolutely stunning, a peaceful, breathtaking place where nature feels untouched. The scenery is magical, with clear waters surrounded by lush green hills and a calm atmosphere that makes it perfect for relaxing. You can swim, kayak, or just sit by the lake and enjoy the view. The sunsets are especially beautiful. If you’re in northern Albania, this is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves nature, quiet escapes, and stunning landscapes

Shkoder Lake lies between the border of Albania and Montenegro. It’s the largest lake in Southern Europe. We had a short visit with our guide Irdi. The lake surrounding is not clean. A lot of trash and garbage are all around. Few cows were on pedestrian paths visiting the lake as well. Boat trip is 25 euros for 1-3 persons. Many restaurants and cafes. We had a short walk and decided to leave.

Skadar Lake is one of the most beautiful natural treasures in Montenegro, offering a perfect combination of serene waters, lush landscapes, and rich wildlife. The lake’s vast expanse and calm waters create a peaceful atmosphere that makes every visit feel refreshing and rejuvenating. The surroundings are stunning, with green hills and small villages dotting the shoreline, giving you a sense of timeless charm and natural beauty. There are many opportunities for boat trips, kayaking, or simply relaxing along the shore while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Photography enthusiasts will especially appreciate the ever-changing reflections on the water and the vivid colors during sunrise or sunset. Skadar Lake is also a place of cultural interest, with historic monasteries, quaint fishing villages, and scenic viewpoints along its banks. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, quiet relaxation, or a combination of both, this lake offers something memorable for everyone. Overall, Skadar Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Montenegro — a serene, picturesque, and unforgettable natural paradise.

One of the most beautiful National Parks in Montenegro. Lake is huge with a numerious bird species, which are protected by law, and some of them endangerad species. I would advise to take boat tour and during the summer you can take kayak and also swim in the lake. Also there are many islands, and churches and monesteries on them, so you can also book tour to these sites.

The largest lake in Southern Europe is capricious: during the thaw period the surface of the lake can grow from 368 km2 to 540 km2. The lake is also a paradise for bird watchers as it is home to around 270 species, including some of the last pelicans in Europe. A boat trip on the lake should not be missing from your itinerary. Fortunately, there are more than enough boat trip providers, in Virpazar for example.

We took a 2 hour boat tour with Kingfisher out onto the lake which was magnificent. The views are incredible with plenty of birds to see. The boat also stops for you to take a swim which my children loved. Approx 15mins stop. Price of tour was 15 euros per person (card accepted) plus 5 euros for the national park fee (must be paid in cash) but I did consider this value for money. The local shops/restaurants around the area only take cash but the hotel whilst more expensive does take card. Toilets need to be paid for or you can buy a drink from the bar and they will let you use the facilities.