We had heard stories that Albanian roads are terrible, but fortunately, in northern Albania, this turned out to be untrue. In that sense, we had more problems passing through Montenegro. After crossing the border (we had somewhat forgotten what a hassle it is to wait for half an hour, just for some official to look at you with a frown and stamp your passport), the roads became wider and better maintained. Our first stop was the famous campsite on the shores of Lake Shkodra – Lake Shkodra Resort. Their official website is here: https://www.lakeshkodraresort.com/
A narrow asphalt road leads to the campsite, which you turn onto from the main road five kilometers before entering the city of Shkoder. When we say narrow, we mean it—it is difficult for two campers to pass each other on it without at least one of them turning a few meters into the grass. Despite this, we also saw very large bus campers and long caravans at the campsite. The only complaint about the campsite’s organization is the access.
There are various pitches – from those in the shade of trees and near the lake to the new sunny ones located on the other side of the road in the recently expanded part of the camp. The reception staff is friendly; payment is in advance (22 euros per day for a camper, two people, electricity, and Wi-Fi); and access to all pitches is reasonable. As far as we could see, the guests’ structure mainly comprises older visitors or families with children. Cyclists and motorcyclists who use the camp as a rest stop, spend one night, and move on are common.
There are showers and toilets in the central building; everything works flawlessly, and it is neat and clean. Also, there is a small shop that is not well-stocked, but some basic items, such as water, biscuits, or internet, can be purchased for tourists. The internet in the camp is good if you are near the reception. If you are not, do not even try to get online in the evening because you probably won’t be able to.
If you are not coming with your own house on four wheels, you can enjoy very interesting, luxurious wooden houses in the trees.
We liked best that the camp is eco-friendly, self-sufficient with electricity, and uses natural wastewater treatment technology.
The camp is a good starting point for exploring the city of Shkodër. From there, you can cycle into the hinterland to some interesting places (see our two cycling tours in the SoulBike section and the article “Shkodër, Albania” at https://www.end7ess.eu/shkoder-albania/).
We wondered about water sports on the lake, and the answer is – so-so. You could probably go windsurfing, but access is quite limited, and the question is, what is hidden under the lake’s surface? In fact, one of the most significant drawbacks is the lack of a promenade or any path along the lake. Only a narrow, cleared part in front of the camp is accessible (about 100 meters wide). Most of the shore is overgrown with bushes. We hope the hosts will work on this in the future.
The camp has an excellent restaurant that delighted us with its high-quality vegetarian menu. For about 20 euros, you can get a hearty and tasty homemade meal.
Lake Shkodra Resort Score
Location: Very good. Outside the busy city, in nature, far from disturbance. However, nothing to do there, except sitting and resting. Our score is 8.
Environment: Very good, surrounded by fields, with the next on the lake. Score: 8
Accessibility: The camp is easy to find, but the connecting road is narrow. Our score is 7.
Functionality: Perfect in every way, except weak Wi-Fi in remote areas of the camp. Our score is 8.
Comfort: The toilet and shower building are clean and comfortable. Our score is 9.
Hospitality: Warm, informative, and open. Score: 10
Added values: 5 + 7 + 10 = 7
Our score for sports activities: 5; cultural activities: 7; gastronomy: 10. Average: 7
The camp is a good starting point for the exploration of city life. However, you must take a taxi or bike (7 km) to the city. There are some options for biking around the area, but not many. For hiking, you should again take additional transport. Water sports are possible but not described as camp favorite activities. Gastronomy, on the other hand, is surprisingly good. For example, you can eat in the camp restaurant (prices are half those in Croatia).
Will we return?
Although the camp is more than decent, some could call it exceptionally good, it is not our vibe. We would return only to stay a night (and eat some good food) before continuing our path forward.
About the Author: Emina
