Journey to komani lake
Situated 60km North of Shkodër is a man-made lake placed within the route of the Drin, the longest river in Albania that crosses into both Kosovo and Northern Macedonia.
Morning Sun on Komani Lake
Although man-made, Komani Lake provides the sort of natural spectacle you won’t come across anywhere else in Albania. With scenery to rival an Apple desktop background, presented with a tranquility that is somewhat absent in the more tourist-filled Lumi i Shales, it’s hard not to fall for the beauty of this place.
The formation of the lake has created a seamless transition between the glittering turquoise waters and the rugged peaks surrounding it, some standing as tall as 2400 meters. As the morning sun rises and the lake stands still, the undulating valley adorned with vibrant green and grounding terracotta proudly looks upon the lake’s mirror; A reflection so perfect, it’s almost an illusion to see.
Views of Komani Lake
When planning my journey to Lumi i Shales, I hadn’t anticipated the route there to be so scenic. However having travelled around Albania from end to end in search of its most beautiful places, I have learned with each trip that often it really is about the journey, just as much as the destination.
As the morning mist began to dissipate from the road ahead and I noticed an increase in the frequency of stopping bays by the side of the road, I knew that we were about to approach something special. A quick glance at Google maps revealed that we were approaching Komani Lake and with the road being among the mountains, a sense of anticipation began to build about the view that would soon open up before me.
A vision of the lake, the morning sun gently illuminating its surface, beckoned to me through the dense roadside vegetation and as we pulled into the next stopping bay, it unveiled itself in its beautiful entirety.
Mornings in the mountains possess a calm power so profound that to experience it is to feel both inspired and intimidated. While most of Albania was just waking up to this beautiful morning, we had been driving for hours to sample what felt like the best part of it.
Although the rest of the day at Lumi i Shales showed me so much natural beauty, there was just something abut that moment at Komani Lake that reminded me why I love this country so much. It’s a feeling I hope anyone visiting Albania will experience so if you are planning a trip to the North or Lumi i Shales, keep Komani in mind!
Views of Lake Komani, Northern Albania
Although the lake has been a haven of nature since it’s construction, I don’t feel I could write this without mentioning that as this beautiful place has become less of a secret and more people are discovering it’s beauty; pollution has become an increasing issue to tackle.
Gliding through the shimmering turquoise waters, you can’t help but notice corners of the lake where there is a buildup of rubbish that has been discarded. With scarce local communities left surrounding the lake and the majority of those left now being used for tourism, I think it’s easy to see where the root of this problem lies.
Across the globe, it’s commonplace that with mass tourism often comes an environmental impact that can be difficult to tackle, especially in remote areas like this. With destinations of such outstanding natural beauty, we have a responsibility to not only remain in awe of them but to also protect and care for them.
As an emerging economy, Albania is relying heavily on tourism to support its growth but when I see things like this, a concern grows in me that this stunning country could be impacted both ways as it grows in popularity. If people wish to continue to visit the lake and experience it at it’s finest, they need to understand that it is everybody’s responsibility to maintain that experience.
I’ve been travelling here for years and in the beginning I would more often than not be the only non-Albanian in many of the places I’d visit. As someone who is not only proud to call this my second home but who is also passionate about seeing this amazing country enjoyed by people from across the globe, I have but one request; treat this stunning landscape with the respect and care that it deserves. That way, as time unfolds and as the country develops, there will always be this untouched natural gem for people to enjoy and be inspired by.
How To Get There:
From Tirana and Shkodër, you can get to the lake by bus, car or motorcycle. There are also several organised tour buses that will collect you from the city and bring you all the way to the lake. If you want to explore areas further up the river from Koman, your ferry ticket is often included in the cost so if it’s your first time in Albania and not confident to drive or take public transport, definitely consider a tour.
I’ve mentioned in other articles the challenges that come with driving in Albania and this journey is definitely no exception! The road leading to Koman is a steep meander of regular potholes and for those who aren’t confident in driving, there are definitely better routes to practice on so I’d recommend going by public transport or on an organised tour.
If you do wish to go by car, my recommendation when hiring a car in Albania, especially to explore the North, is to hire a 4x4. It will make the journey far smoother I promise!
Things To Do:
As well as just soaking up the natural beauty of the lake, there are also plenty of activities to do both on and around the lake if you’re looking to really immerse yourself in all it has to offer.
Hiking- There are plenty of hiking trails around this area, many of which are quite challenging so research before you go or take part in a hiking tour.
Kayaking and Water Sports- There are plenty of kayak hire places dotted around this area and quite a few hotels will offer kayaks as part of your stay. There are also kayaking tours and group trips available too.
Boat Trip- If you want to explore the lake or head to any of the nearby areas such as Lumi i Shales then a boat trip is what you need. There are ferries suitable for cars and bikes that can take you further away, or why not catch one of the traditional long boats to Lumi i Shales?
Planning a trip to Albania and want to ask for any tips! Send me a message, jess@tavoli.co.uk!