Mirë se erdhët
A shallow 41.5 km² lagoon on the Adriatic coast of Vlorë's coastal plain, on average only 1.2 m deep, cut off from the sea by a strip of pine-covered shore. The northern part was turned into salt pans in the early 1950s. Since 2022 it has been part of the Pishë Poro – Nartë Protected Landscape (IUCN category V), and Albania's National Agency of Protected Areas calls it the country's second most important lagoon for waterbirds.
Çfarë të shohësh
What to do
- Birdwatching: the agency lists 192 bird species in the area; Dalmatian pelicans feed here and flamingos are regular visitors.
- The salt pans, where the agency says about 88% of the nesting waterbirds gather.
- Cross to Zvërnec island and its monastery (it has its own page).
- Plazhi i Dalanit, the wild beach beside the lagoon (see Hidden beaches).
Këshilla
Good to know
- It's a protected landscape: keep to tracks, especially in the nesting season.
- Mosquitoes can be strong at dusk — bring repellent.
Where to eat
Dining
Types of places, typical dishes and, where verified, named spots with their own website and directions. Always check recent reviews and opening hours.
01
Fancy dinners
Hotel restaurants, lakeside or seaside terraces, and places where you dress a little nicer for a long meal.
Typical dishes: Grilled fish or seafood, lamb, steaks, salads and wine. On the coast look for fresh catch of the day; inland, thoughtful takes on tavë kosi and traditional plates.
02
Street food
Bakeries, grill counters and small stands you can eat standing up or take away.
Typical dishes: Byrek and pite by the piece, qebapa in bread with onion and kajmak, qofte, suxhuk, bakllava and strong coffee or macchiato.
03
Comfort food
Family kitchens, village guesthouses and everyday restaurants that cook like home.
Typical dishes: Tavë kosi, fërgesë, flija or pite, sarma, beans (pasul), yogurt and simple grilled meats. In the mountains: dairy, flija and slow-cooked dishes.
🎟️ Bookable experiences
Activities
No verified bookable activities here yet.
🛏️ Where to sleep
Stays
Search places to stay in Vlore: Airbnb ↗Booking.com ↗
Galeria
Gallery
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