The Shala River & Komani Lake
A guide to one of the most remote and beautiful corners of northern Albania.
Overview
Guesthouse Zgiboza stands on the bank of the Shala River in the mountains north of Shkodër. There is no road to the property: the only way to reach it is by boat across Komani Lake, a journey of about 1h 15m through a narrow canyon. That isolation is what keeps the valley quiet, green and unspoiled.
Komani Lake
Komani Lake is a long, narrow reservoir on the Drin River, framed by steep, forested canyon walls that drop straight into the water. The public boat from Koman port is often called one of the most scenic boat rides in Europe. It stops at small hamlets along the way and ends at the Shala River landing, where we meet our guests.
The boat leaves Koman at 09:30 and 16:30, and returns from the Shala River at 07:30 and 15:00. Schedules depend on the season and water level, so please confirm with us before you travel. Boat tour details
Shala River
The Shala is a mountain river with cold, crystal-clear water, flowing through a green valley before it meets the lake. Its pools and gravel banks are perfect for swimming from June to September. Currents can be strong after rain, so please ask us which spots are safe on the day.
The Albanian Alps
The valley lies at the edge of the Albanian Alps, a rugged range of limestone peaks with alpine meadows, waterfalls and traditional villages. Marked trails lead to the Valbona and Theth valleys, and we can suggest walks from one hour to a full day. Valbona to Theth hike
Quick facts
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Moll'Shosh, Shala River valley, Shkodër County, Albania |
| Access | Boat only, from Koman port (about 1h 15m) |
| Boat times | From Koman 09:30 and 16:30; back to Koman 07:30 and 15:00 |
| Season | May to October (low season: boats do not run daily) |
| Swimming | June to September, cold mountain water |
| Nearest city | Shkodër (about 1h 30m by road to Koman port) |
| Payments | Please bring cash (EUR or ALL) |
Keep exploring
How to get here
Routes from Tirana, Shkodër, Montenegro and Fierza. See all routes
Valbona to Theth
The classic Albanian Alps hike, with logistics from Zgiboza. Read the hike guide
Things to do
Activities, nearby places and sample itineraries. Things to do
Before you arrive
Packing list, documents and arrival day. Arrival guide