Kune Vain Tale Reserve: another Albanian hidden gem

Albania is home to numerous lagoons and nature reserves, which are crucial for preserving the ecosystem, especially in the regions along the coast of the Adriatic Sea.

Lagoons such as Karavasta, Patok, and Narta serve as habitats for many species of migratory birds and other wild animals and contribute to preserving biological diversity. But there is also the Kune Vain Tale lagoon, which today has the reserve status.

Kune Vain Tale, Lezha, Photo: Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Kune Vain Tale Reserve is located near the Drim River and covers an area of ​​about 43 km². It stretches from the town of Shëngjin to the village of Tale, including the surrounding beaches and agricultural lands. This reserve is of exceptional ecological importance because it contains diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, lagoons, and marine and terrestrial habitats, which are essential for numerous plant and animal species.

In that area, you can find over 200 species of birds, including rare species such as pelicans, and many migratory birds that use this reserve as a temporary refuge.

Kune Vain Tale, Lezha, Photo: Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs, CC BY-SA 4.0

In addition to birds, Kune Vain Tale Reserve is also home to many other species of wildlife such as otters, jackals, and foxes. Also, this area is rich in different plant species, including Aleppo pine, tamarisk, and black pine.

This diversity makes the reserve an important ecosystem not only for the local flora and fauna but also for the people who depend on its natural resources for fishing and tourism.

Kune Vain Tale, Lezha, Photo: Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs, CC BY-SA 4.0

Lagoons like Kuna Vain Tale play a key role in maintaining ecological balance by protecting the coast from erosion, filtering water, and providing habitats for many species. They are also important in the context of adaptation to climate change, as they help reduce flood damage and preserve biodiversity that is under pressure due to human activities and climate change.

Various restaurants and accommodations are located inside the lagoon, which, although they are intended to complement the tourist offer of the location, also leave their not-so-good impact on nature and the habitat of flora and fauna.

Kune Vain Tale, Lezha, Photo: Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs, CC BY-SA 4.0

If you find yourself near the town of Lezhë, a visit to the castle could be a great start to your exploration of this historically rich region. After that, it’s only a short drive away from the Kune Vain Tale lagoon, where you can experience a real connection with nature and enjoy bird watching and the silence that this natural oasis offers.

If you want to take a swim upon arrival, there are also two popular beaches, Kune and Tale.