Shkodra County: Hotels and Accommodation

In Shkodra County, the Lake Shkodër Biosphere Reserve showcases a diverse landscape: it stretches from the Adriatic coast to mountain peaks over 2,000 metres high.

Nature and Water

Liqeni i Shkodres is designated as a Managed Nature Reserve with IUCN Management Category IV. The Lake Shkodër Biosphere Reserve encompasses Lake Shkodër, the largest freshwater lake in the Balkans and a Ramsar wetland of international importance. It includes wetlands, forests and agricultural land.

The reserve is home to more than 280 bird species, including the Dalmatian pelican, as well as mammals such as the Balkan lynx. Around the Lake Shkodër Biosphere Reserve, fishing continues to contribute to the livelihoods of the local population.

Lake Koman is known for ferry journeys considered among the most spectacular in Europe. It was created in 1985 following the construction of the Koman Dam.

Culture and History

The medieval ruins of Sarda on Shurdhahu include defensive walls, church foundations and the remains of ancient buildings. Sarda was an important centre during the rule of the Dukagjini family. Rozafa Castle was built during the Illyrian period.

The National Marubi Museum of Photography opened in Shkodër on 9 May 2016 and was Albania’s first institution of its kind. It preserves more than 500,000 negatives and photographs documenting Albanian life, historical events and landscapes over more than a century.

The Historical Museum of Shkodër has been located in the restored Oso Kuka Monumental House since 1996. Its exhibitions include archaeological finds, traditional clothing, old weapons, handicrafts and household objects.

Mountains and Trails

The Albanian Alps are located in northern Albania in the Shkodër region. An official alpine route connects Theth, Shkodër, Vermosh, Razëm, Bogë and Valbonë. Theth National Park is almost 90 percent covered by beech forests and is known for its rich biodiversity.

Theth Church was built in 1892 and restored in 2005. A path leads from the area of the old mill in Theth to Theth Canyon. Fushë-Arrëz offers hiking, nature exploration and rural tourism near Qafë-Mali National Park.

Razëm offers hiking and winter activities in a mountain landscape. Vermosh is associated with mountain hiking, nature tourism and cultural tourism. Kryeziu Waterfall creates a natural landscape with cascading water.

Coast and Cuisine

Velipoja Beach has shallow water that gradually becomes deeper and is suitable for families and children.

In the guesthouses of Fushë-Arrëz, the cuisine includes laknure, pies, slow-cooked meat, mountain soups and fresh garden salads. The dishes are prepared using local products and traditional preparation techniques. Vermosh is also associated with alpine landscapes, hospitality and a rich local gastronomy.

Further regional destinations include Velipojë, Vermosh, Bogë, Çukë, Barbullush, Malësi E Madhe, Razëm, Grilë, Puka District, Shkodër, Lepushë, Bahçallëk, Shalë and Malësi e Madhe District. Those wishing to book a hotel in Shkodra County can then continue their accommodation search.

To the higher-level travel overview: Albania.