BIRDWATCHING NARTA LAGOON FLAMINGOS
Narta Lagoon (Albanian: Laguna e Nartës) is a lagoon of the Adriatic Sea on the Mediterranean Sea in the central coast of Albania. The lagoon extends north of the Bay of Vlorë on the eastern shore of the Strait of Otranto and is separated from the sea by a narrow littoral strip, consisting of an alluvial dune. It has a surface area of 41.8 km2 (16.1 sq mi) with a maximal depth of 1.5 m (4.9 ft).
It is situated within the boundaries of the Vjosa-Narta Protected Landscape and has been recognised as an important Bird and Plant Area of international importance.[2][3] As of May 2020, it is home to 3,000 flamingos.[4] It is formed by the constant accumulation of solid flow of the Vjosa River, which originates within the Pindus Mountains close to the border between Albania and Greece.[5]
The lagoon is named after the village of Nartë, which is found on the lagoon’s southern shores. Within the lagoon, there are two islands located, with Zvërnec Island being the largest. A wooden footbridge connects mainland to the island, where a 13th-century monastery is located. At least 34,800 wintering birds can be counted on the lagoon.[6]
ZVERNEC MONASTERY
On a small island within the Narta Lagoon, the Zvernec Monastery appears before hundreds of pine trees.
Also known as the St. Mary Of Divinity Church, the Byzantine era church was thought to be built sometime during the 14th century. Despite its age, the building is extremely well preserved.
The inside is full of beautiful paintings and exceptionally intricate woodworking. The outside has a well maintained garden, and a few modern structures belonging to the church.
These are the only buildings on the island of Zverenec, so don’t expect to eat out while you are there. Although, there is usually a food truck just across the water at the entrance, with cold drinks and snacks.
The whole visit to Zvernec can be done relatively quick though, but it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.
DALANI BEACH (porto novo)
15 km from the city of Vlora is the beach of Porto Novo. To reach this area, it is very difficult, as the road is quite amortized. Porto Nova is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area with small clay bays.
Hidden between Zvernec and Narta Lagoon, this is the ideal place for adventure enthusiasts and tourists who are not looking for 5-star hotels but virgin nature. Its visitors every year are foreign vacationers traveling in camper vans.
Reach to Narta Lagoon Bird Watching Site
Reach St. Mary’s Monastery, Zvernec
Reach for Dalan Beach (Porto Novo), Zvernec