Want to enjoy over 3000 flamingos in one place? Then Narta Lagoon is a real paradise for you!

Indeed, Albania is full of surprises! Did you know that just 12 kilometers from a tourist hot spot such as Vlore and within Vjosa National Park, you can enjoy an incredible lagoon with the most magnificent sunsets which is also home to over 3000 flamingos? Yeah, you probably haven’t because it would have been all over the news!

It is located within the settlement of Narte and Zvërnec, after which the island within the lagoon, got its name too. Spreading across 41.8 square kilometers, Narta lagoon is a hidden paradise that lies on the border between the Adriatic and Ionian sea, right opposite Sazan – an enigmatic island where visitors are only allowed to stay for one hour.

 

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A POST SHARED BY MELANIE & JULIAN | VANLIFE | OUTDOOR | PHOTOGRAPHY (@PATRABLO)

Stretching from the north of the Bay of Vlorë to the eastern shore of the Strait of Otranto, Narta Lagoon is isolated from the sea by a narrow littoral strip. This strip comprises an alluvial dune with a total length of approximately 8 kilometers and a width ranging from 100 to 1400 meters.

Narta lagoon dunes, Photo: Wildman, Depositphotos

Narta, alongside Karavasta Lagoon, stands as one of the largest and most significant lagoons in the country. Its magnificence lies not only in its size but also as one of the most important bird reserves in Albania, which counts at least 34,800 birds during the winter.

Narta lagoon, Photo: Netdrimeny, Depositphotos

Certainly, in addition to Narta’s dunes and flamingos, this incredible lagoon is linked to Zvernec Island by a charming wooden footbridge. On the island which is 430 meters long and 300 meters wide, you will discover the Church and St. Mary’s Divinity Monastery (also known as Monastery of Dormition of Theotokos Mary), which dates back to the 14th century.

Nestled in such a picturesque location, both the church and monastery are enveloped by pine trees and are warmly embraced by many visitors.

Zvernec island monastery, Photo: Saxanad, Depositphotos

According to some stories, the monastery once housed a remarkably rich library. However, during the communist era in 1967, when the last monk departed, the monastery faced closure, looting, and even burning. In those times, Zvernec Island served as an exile for opponents of the system. After 1990, the religious function was restored to the monastery.

Today, on the Assumption of Mary, believers gather annually to pray and spend the night there.

Zvernec island – church, Photo: Saxanad, Depositphotos

If you decide to explore Narta Lagoon, be sure not to miss Dalan Beach and Hidrovor Beach for the most breathtaking sunsets as you drink your favorite beverage!