We’ve been kayaking in the Balkans since 2004—long before it became cool on Instagram. Back then, it was just us, a couple of battered kayaks, and the endless blue of Lake Skadar—or Shkodër, as it’s known in Albania—the largest lake in the region and the place we now call home. Since then, we’ve explored the best kayaking destinations across Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and North Macedonia. We’ve been chased by katabatic winds, rescued by nuns, startled by snakes, and occasionally tipped into icy whitewater. But mostly, we’ve been rewarded with unforgettable moments: gliding past island monasteries, paddling through sea caves, and drifting under the watch of Dalmatian pelicans. If you’re wondering where to kayak in the Balkans—whether you want calm family paddles, wildlife-rich lakes, or heart-pumping rapids—here’s our insider’s guide. Jump to: Why the Balkans? Family-friendly kayaking Best lakes for kayaking Scenic river kayaking Whitewater kayaking Sea kayaking Kayaking safety tips Why Kayaking in the Balkans should be on your list Where else can you paddle past medieval monasteries one day, explore a canyon by kayak the next, and finish your trip in a turquoise sea cave? The variety—combined with stretches of water that still feel undiscovered—makes kayaking in the Balkans unique. Whether you’re here for a gentle family float, a wildlife-rich glide, or a white-knuckle rapid, you’ll find your perfect paddle. Family-Friendly Kayaking in the Balkans For paddling with children, look for warm, calm waters with plenty of swimming opportunities. The best family kayaking routes have rope swings, bridges to jump from, or flat rocks for cannonballs. Here are our suggestions: Crnojevića River, Montenegro - short, scenic, teeming with birdlife, and dotted with swimming spots Morača River by Lake Skadar, Montenegro - shady willow forests, calm shallows, and rope swings make it perfect for picnicking and paddling
We’ve been kayaking in the Balkans since 2004—long before it became cool on Instagram. Back then, it was just us, a couple of battered kayaks, and the endless blue of Lake Skadar—or Shkodër, as it’s known in Albania—the largest lake in the region and the place we now call home. Since then, we’ve explored the
“Look up! Pelicans! Dead Ahead...” "Oh yeah? Wow!" Catching a glimpse of these extraordinary birds is a highlight for so many guests on our kayaking trips at Lake Skadar, but did you know that holidaying with us has helped fund urgent Dalmatian Pelican conservation work? Thanks to our Book to Give Back scheme, we have been able to make the biggest donation in our company’s history to help one of the world’s most threatened waterbirds continue to thrive in Montenegro at a time of crisis. We donated €3,000 to our charity partner CZIP, Montenegro’s equivalent of the RSPB, in April last year, and as a direct result, works completed in December to give vital new protection to the colony at Lake Skadar. A new nesting site they adopted last year is now safeguarded with buoys and signs to keep people at a safe distance and help these magnificent birds to breed undisturbed. The protection measures come just in time for winter breeding season — ornithologists counted 49 nests on the island in last week's winter count — and we’re all hoping to see lots of healthy chicks come March. On the brink The Dalmatian Pelican is the world’s largest pelican and heaviest flying freshwater bird, weighing in at 9.5kg respectively with a wingspan of up to 3 metres. They can be found in wetlands across southeast Europe, including a population of 71 breeding pairs at Lake Skadar, which is shared by Montenegro and Albania (Albanian name, Shkodra Lake). Sizeable colonies are also at Romania's Danube-Delta, Albania's Divjakë-Karavasta, and on Lake Prespa, shared by Albania and Greece. Sadly, the species is endangered. Irresponsible tourism and poaching near nesting sites are two of the greatest human threats, next to construction near their habitats and natural threats such as bird flu and extreme
“Look up! Pelicans! Dead Ahead…” “Oh yeah? Wow!” Catching a glimpse of these extraordinary birds is a highlight for so many guests on our kayaking trips at Lake Skadar, but did you know that holidaying with us has helped fund urgent Dalmatian Pelican conservation work? Thanks to our Book to Give Back scheme, we have
Shkodër is a North Albanian city beside Lake Shkodra, Southern Europe’s largest lake which Albania shares with Montenegro (where it's called Skadar). It’s around two hours’ drive from Tirana and considered the gateway to the Albanian Alps. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Shkodër, including a couple of hidden gems of our own - we are, after all, Undiscovered Balkans. And Shkodër (aka Shkodra) is certainly “undiscovered” as most travellers pass through it on their way to hike the Valbona pass or to visit Komani Lake. So, what can you expect from a stay in Shkodër? Once the ancient Illyrian capital, Shkodër is Albania’s fifth most populated city with a history spanning 2,200 years. Compared to Tirana, it’s very laid back and it has a somewhat Adriatic vibe, particularly in the pedestrianised old town along Kole Idromeno which is flanked by boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops. The beauty of Shkodër is you can tick off most of its top sights by foot as they’re concentrated around the old town. It’s equally a great city to explore by bike, earning it the title of Albania’s cycling city. Read our other Balkan city guides and find more travel tips and inspiration on the blog. Things to do in Shkodër Rozafa Castle Rozafa Castle - aka Shkodër Castle - is a must do when visiting the area and with it towering over the city from 130m above, it’s hard to miss. A limestone fortress built in stages since the 3rd century BC, it’s remarkably preserved. Rozafa Castle offers an unbeatable view over Shkodër and from the back of the fortress, you can see the Drini, Kir and Buna rivers converging and feeding into Lake Shkodra. Be sure to visit the statue of Rozafa which is said to
Shkodër is a North Albanian city beside Lake Shkodra, Southern Europe’s largest lake which Albania shares with Montenegro (where it’s called Skadar). It’s around two hours’ drive from Tirana and considered the gateway to the Albanian Alps. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Shkodër, including a couple of hidden
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