Lake Skadar: A hidden gem of nature
Whilst in Montenegro, I located a trip that promised delicious, local and sustainable food, a boat trip and locally sourced wine. This trip automatically sounded like a perfect match for me! The trip was to visit Lake Skadar and I obliviously attended the tour, not knowing the incredible wonder that awaited me. Before I visited Montenegro, I had never heard of the amazing Lake Skadar and boy, was I missing out!
Due to my lack of knowledge about Lake Skadar before visiting, I thought it would be beneficial to include some information about the unimaginable lake below. Therefore, I have added some FAQs below.
FAQs
Without a doubt, YES! Lake Skadar is a hidden gem in the Balkans, offering a stunning mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage. As the largest lake in Southern Europe, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and history buffs alike. Plus, not to mention that you will return home with fascinating stories to impress your friends!
The short answer is both! Lake Skadar is shared by both Montenegro and Albania. About two-thirds of the lake lies within Montenegro, where it is a part of Lake Skadar National Park, while the remaining portion is in Albania. The lake acts as a natural border between the two countries.
Yes but a tour is encouraged. While it’s not possible to walk around the entire perimeter of Lake Skadar due to its size and natural terrain, there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views and access to different parts of the lake. However, I would strongly recommend booking a tour to fully appreciate the lake’s beauty.
A day trip is enough to enjoy some of the lake’s main attractions, such as a boat tour, a short hike, or a visit to one of its nearby villages. However, to fully appreciate the area, including activities like birdwatching, cycling, or kayaking, a stay of two to three days may be preferred. This allows ample time to explore both the natural beauty and cultural sites around the lake.
Yes, you can swim in Lake Skadar! The lake has several beautiful, clean, and quiet spots for swimming, particularly along the Montenegrin side. The water is warm in summer, making it a great place for a refreshing dip. Some boat tours also include stops for swimming in the lake’s clear waters.
Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans, covering an area of approximately 370 to 530 square kilometers, depending on the water level, which varies seasonally. The lake stretches for about 44 kilometers in length and can be up to 14 kilometers wide at its broadest point.
There are a variety of nearby lodges and areas that offer affordable stays. I would recommend looking around for the best prices and accommodation based on your activity ideas when you arrive at the lake. However, I would strongly recommend looking around the areas of Virpazar and Rijeka Crnojevića.
Things to do in Lake Skadar
Lake Skadar is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor activities or simply want to enjoy the serene beauty of this Balkan gem, Lake Skadar offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Here are some top things to do in and around the lake:
Bird watching
Lake Skadar is one of Europe’s premier birdwatching destinations, home to over 280 bird species. The lake is particularly famous for its population of Dalmatian pelicans, one of the largest in the world. You can also spot herons, cormorants, pygmy cormorants, and a variety of migratory species. The best way to enjoy bird watching is by boat, where you can glide quietly through the reed beds, keeping your binoculars handy to catch a glimpse of rare species. The spring and autumn months are especially ideal for birdwatching, as migration periods bring an influx of different species.
Kayaking
Kayaking on Lake Skadar offers a peaceful yet exhilarating way to explore its vast waters, hidden coves, and secluded beaches. The lake’s calm waters make it suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced kayakers. Paddle past quaint fishing villages and venture into some of the remote parts of the lake that are only accessible by boat. Guided kayak tours are available if you want to combine the activity with a bit of local knowledge. Also, you can rent your own kayak for a more independent adventure.
Cycling
Cycling is another fantastic way to experience the beauty of Lake Skadar and its surroundings. The area offers several scenic routes that vary in difficulty, from leisurely lakeside paths to more challenging mountain climbs. The circular route around the lake takes you through picturesque villages, vineyards, and olive groves, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can stop for a swim, enjoy local cuisine, or visit historical sites like monasteries and ancient fortresses.
Hiking
For hiking enthusiasts, Lake Skadar has numerous trails that provide breathtaking views and opportunities to connect with nature. The surrounding mountains, including the rugged Rumija range, offer routes that range from easy walks to more demanding hikes. One popular trail is the hike to the summit of Mount Vranjina, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the lake and beyond to the Adriatic Sea. Additionally, hiking trails often lead to cultural landmarks, such as old villages, hidden monasteries, and fortifications, blending adventure with a bit of history.
Boat Tours
Boat tours are a popular choice and in my opinion, are one of the best ways to fully experience the beauty and tranquility of the fascinating lake. These tours allow you to explore many hidden gems, including picturesque islands, secluded beaches, and historical sites like ancient monasteries and fortresses perched on rocky outcrops. You can choose from a variety of boat trips, ranging from short scenic cruises to longer excursions that include swimming and dining on local cuisine. Many tours offer the chance to visit the lake’s wildlife-rich areas, providing a perfect opportunity for birdwatching and photography. I personally decided to take a longer boat tour with knowledgable guides and a visit to an amazing locally sourced fish restaurant. You can read my full review below.
Lake Skadar Excursion – A full review
Nestled between Montenegro and Albania, Lake Skadar is a stunning destination that offers both natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. Our excursion around this magnificent lake was an unforgettable adventure, complete with a scenic boat tour, delicious local cuisine, and fascinating historical insights. Here’s a glimpse into our remarkable day on Lake Skadar.
A Scenic Boat Tour
Our journey began with a relaxing boat tour on a large vessel that provided plenty of space to soak in the panoramic views of Lake Skadar. The lake, the largest in the Balkans, stretches across the border of Montenegro and Albania, creating a unique blend of landscapes and experiences. As we glided across the water, the knowledgeable guides shared intriguing details about the lake’s history, wildlife, and geography.
One of the highlights of the tour was learning about the Montenegrin Alcatraz, a former prison located on a small island in the lake. Our guide recounted the story of how this prison housed inmates who couldn’t swim, a measure designed to prevent escapes. Despite the precautions, one inventive prisoner managed to use a door as a raft in an attempt to escape. The story of his daring yet unsuccessful adventure added a thrilling historical touch to our excursion. This was my personal highlight of the trip and still to this day, I wow people with my knowledge of Prison Grmožur!
Local Delights: A Lunch to Remember
After an invigorating morning on the lake, we docked at a charming local fish restaurant situated right on the water’s edge. The restaurant specializes in fresh fish, and the meal was a true culinary delight. Each dish was prepared with care, showcasing the rich flavors of local ingredients. My fiancé was particularly taken with the food, going back for thirds!
The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the fish, which was expertly cooked and incredibly flavourful. Paired with a selection of local wines offered on the boat, the dining experience was as enjoyable as it was delicious. The relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the beautiful lakeside setting, made for a perfect lunch break.
Wildlife Wonders and Local Stories on Lake Skadar
As we continued our boat tour, we were treated to the sight of numerous pelicans fishing for their meals. These magnificent birds added a touch of wildlife wonder to our journey, and watching them in their natural habitat was a real treat.
Our guide also explained how Lake Skadar is shared between Montenegro and Albania, with each side carefully monitored to ensure that locals adhere to their respective territories. This arrangement helps maintain order and preserves the delicate balance of the lake’s ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Our excursion on Lake Skadar was a delightful blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and local flavors. The combination of a relaxing boat tour, delicious fish lunch, and fascinating stories about the Montenegrin Alcatraz made for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply someone who enjoys great food, Lake Skadar offers something special for everyone. It’s a must-visit destination that beautifully captures the essence of both Montenegro and Albania. You can view more information about Lake Skadar National Park here.
