Lake Koman, Shala and Theth from Shkodra: 2-day tour

Are you on vacation in Shkodra and looking for an itinerary to discover the most secret Albania? Hop aboard myTour and relax by taking part in a two-day trip that will take you to some of the country's most beautiful sites from a nature and landscape perspective. On the first day you will learn about the beauty of Lake Koman, which proceeds more than 40 kilometers in length to Fierza. On the second day we will explore the village of Theth and the enchanted and wild valleys formed by the rugged northern Albanian Alps. 

2-day tour to Lake Koman, Shkodra and Theth: what is included

Day 1: Lake Koman, Shala River and visit to Shkodra

Departure with pick-up at the hotel at 6:30 am. We head north and on the 2-hour drive from Tirana to Lake Koman our experienced guide introduces us to the landscape we will be visiting. When we arrive at the landing stage, we continue on using one of the boats that the locals also use to move around. These are comfortable twenty-seater boats through which to enjoy all the magic of the morning light on Koman Lake. Late in the morning we arrive at one of Albania's least known and most beautiful locations. The beaches along the Shala River welcome us with all their magic. Clear waters, white beaches, caves and rocky outcrops define the landscape of what has rightly been dubbed the Thailand of Albania. On Shala it is possible to swim, venture out on a canoe excursion, or simply sunbathe while sipping an aperitif. Everyone can decide how best to spend their free time. We all meet for lunch at the riverside restaurant. After lunch, at 3 p.m., we leave to return to the pier and reach Shkodra, where we settle in the hotel, before the walking tour, the guided tour of the city.

Day 2: Visit to Theth and the Albanian Alps.

We leave Shkodra at 7 a.m. Along the way we stop in the green valley of Boga to relax while sipping coffee. By 10:30 am we are scheduled to arrive in Theth, where we will be greeted by colors and scents. These are the unforgettable glimpses of the lavender fields that peep out here in the heart of Theth National Park. We proceed on foot into the ancient village of Theth, where the tall houses look like towers. We visit the church and the Tower of Vengeance (Kulla e ngujimit), a building that was used as a shelter in case of revengeful acts of bloodshed at the time of family feuds (gjakmarrja). We continue to the old mill and take the path leading to Theth canyon, with its small waterfalls and natural pools in which to plunge. Lunchtime arrives, and a special menu awaits us at the restaurant, based on traditional Albanian alps cuisine.

The secrets of Albania's mountains

Among the mountains of northern Albania lie incredible secrets. One of the best-kept ones is Lake Koman, a stretch of crystal-clear green water that stretches far and wide. Surrounded by forests, rocks and small villages, this area welcomes visitors with the magic of its colors. Here it is possible to relax, because you can breathe clean, clear air that brightens your thoughts. But you can also enjoy numerous activities, including trekking, nature hikes, sport fishing and canoe trips. 

Koman Lake is a relatively recent invention. More than four decades ago, water from the Drini i Zi, Drini i Bardhe rivers via the Fierza hydroelectric dam was piped here. The result was one of the most spectacular reservoirs in all the Balkans, functional for the creation of electricity, and today on the list of Albania's most secret and enjoyable destinations. 

Around here people move almost exclusively by boat or on foot. Somewhat like the people of Venice, the locals mostly use the ferry to move between villages. Students who need to travel to the university in Shkodra also choose the ferry; it is the fastest way to reach the faculty. Whether one travels out of necessity or for tourist reasons, the one from the boat always remains the best perspective to enjoy the scenery on Lake Koman. The surrounding landscape is one of unspoiled nature, the green of the forests and the gray of the rock are reflected in the waters creating exciting plays of light.

• This tour is not recommended for people in wheelchairs or with reduced mobility

• If you want to swim, we suggest you bring sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a beach towel

• In case of bad weather, the tour may be changed or cancelled

• We recommend wearing comfortable footwear suitable for walking

• In warmer months, equip yourself with a hat or head protection

• Clients are asked to arrive 15 minutes before departure time