Lake Skadar National Park: Visit the Montenegrin Venice

Montenegro



Unveil the wonders of Lake Skadar - the Pavlova Strana fjord and visit the Montenegrin Venice. Feel the spirit of past times, savour delicious local wine, and have a refreshing swim.

Lake Skadar Boat Tour from Virpazar

This guided boat tour on Lake Skadar suits nature lovers and history enthusiasts looking to explore Montenegro’s largest lake and its surrounding landscapes.

Highlights

  • Visit Rijeka Crnojevića, known as the Montenegrin Venice.
  • Glide through meadows of water chestnuts and see the ruins of Lesendro fortress.
  • Marvel at thousands of water lily leaves covering the lake’s surface.
  • Enjoy views along the Pavlova Strana fjord while sipping local wine.
  • Swim in the fresh waters of Lake Skadar with mountain scenery as your backdrop.

Description

Begin your journey in Virpazar, the main gateway to Lake Skadar. Sail through a narrow river channel where you can observe birds fishing and flying overhead. Upon exiting the channel, take in views of the vast lake, distant Albanian mountains, and the island of Vranjina with its two peaks.

Glide through fields of water chestnuts and explore the 18th-century ruins of Lesendro fortress, known as the Key of Lake Skadar, which is frequented by a variety of bird species. Feel the fresh air as you reach the lake’s largest tributary, the Morača River.

Continue towards three islands: Mala Čakovica, Velika Čakovica, and Kamenik. These islets are home to thousands of water lilies, creating a unique natural carpet on the lake surface.

Next, sail along the Pavlova Strana fjord to reach Rijeka Crnojevića, a small fishing village a few kilometres from the historic capital Cetinje. The 15th-century Prince Danilo stone bridge marks the village entrance and stands as a symbol of the area's rich history.

After exploring the village, return to Virpazar. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit to enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Skadar’s clean waters.

Includes

  • National Park Lake Skadar entrance fee
  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Written guides in several languages
  • Map of Lake Skadar
  • Refreshments including wine and juice
  • Life vests and safety equipment

Excludes

  • Land visit to Pavlova Strana viewpoint
  • Lunch or other meals
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Parking in Virpazar is free but limited. For easier parking, follow instructions on your ticket. Arrive at the meeting point at least 30 minutes before departure after parking and preparing for the tour.
  • This tour may be cancelled or rescheduled due to weather conditions such as rain or strong winds. In such cases, you may receive a full refund or an alternative boat may be used. You will be contacted promptly in case of any changes.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lake Skadar National Park is a protected area in Montenegro known for its diverse wildlife, large freshwater lake, and scenic landscapes.
The boat tour starts in Virpazar, a small town on the edge of Lake Skadar in Montenegro.
You can visit Rijeka Crnojevića, see water chestnut meadows, Lesendro fortress ruins, thousands of water lilies, and enjoy views of the Pavlova strana fjord.
Yes, the tour usually includes time to swim in the fresh waters of Lake Skadar surrounded by mountains.
Yes, you can enjoy local Montenegrin wine while admiring the lake and surrounding scenery.
Tour durations vary, so check the specific operator's website for current trip lengths.
The tour is ideal for nature lovers, bird watchers, and those interested in Montenegro’s history and landscapes.
Rijeka Crnojevića is a charming historical town on Lake Skadar, often called the Montenegrin Venice, famous for its old stone bridges and riverside views.
It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons in Montenegro.
The best time to visit is late spring through early autumn when the weather is warm and water lilies are in bloom.

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