In Lezha County, lagoons, open coastal landscapes and alpine heights alternate with one another. From birdwatching by the water and coastal walks to historic sites, the region reveals itself in many different facets. Particularly striking is the contrast between the wetlands near the coast and the gorges and peaks inland.
Lagoons, birdlife and coast
Kune-Vain lies southwest of Shëngjin near the mouth of the Drin and about eight kilometers from Lezhë. The landscape includes lagoons, forests, swamps, islands and wild beaches. The area is considered Albania’s first protected area. More than 200 waterbird species live there, including flamingos and Dalmatian pelicans. Telescopes are available at the entrance; day trips focus on nature experiences, environmental education and exploring the fauna.
The Patoku Lagoon is also a place to experience nature by the water: it lies on the border between Lezha and Kurbin and offers opportunities for birdwatching and outdoor activities. There are also stilt restaurants serving fresh fish. This brings together two different sides of the lagoon area: bird and landscape observation on the one hand, and local cuisine above the water on the other.
South of Lezha, Tales Beach stretches between the Vaini Lagoon and the mouth of the Mat. Its wide expanse is suitable for volleyball and yoga. Swimming, water sports, coastal walks and fishing are offered at Shëngjin Beach. Those who like to combine a coastal visit with another activity will find different options here from the quiet focus of birdwatching at the lagoons.
From dunes to mountains
Rana e Hedhun is a natural monument characterized by sand dunes up to 80 meters high. Hiking, climbing the dunes and photography are among the activities mentioned there. Mount Munella has a very different character: the 1,991-meter-high mountain is also designated a natural monument and features alpine landforms, steep slopes, deep gorges and high-altitude pastures. Marked trails up the mountain begin in Spaç, Bisakë, Klos and Domgjon.
Those interested in geological formations can also explore Uraka Canyon. It is about 200 meters deep and three kilometers long; its features include vertical walls, caves and karst formations. These measurements convey a different scale from the dunes of Rana e Hedhun: there, shifting sand shapes the landscape; here, it is a deep gorge enclosed by rock walls.
History and cultural discoveries
The origins of Lezha Castle date back to the Illyrians, and it was rebuilt or fortified during Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman times. From the castle, panoramic views extend over the Zadrima Plain, the Drin and Lezha; historic ruins lie within its walls. The Skanderbeg Memorial commemorates the Assembly of Lezha on March 2, 1444, at which the League of Lezha was formed. It was created in 1981 from the ruins of the Church of Saint Nicholas.
In Rubik, the Church of Shëlbuemi combines religious history with a route through the landscape. It is designated a cultural monument, began as a Benedictine monastery and later became a Franciscan monastery. It was first mentioned in 1166. The Peace Path starts in Rubik and leads to the church; it is described as a meditative walk with stops for reflection. In the Rubik area, Shëlbuemi Day is also celebrated 40 days after Easter, so its calendar date changes every year.
Infokulla is a tourism development center and museum dedicated to the history and ancient traditions of Mirdita. Its themes include culture, mythology, flora and fauna, music, the history of persecution and ethnography. The Ethnographic Museum of Lezha preserves and presents the region’s tangible and intangible heritage. Its permanent exhibition represents three ethnographic areas; a weapons pavilion displays handcrafted tools and weapons. If these exhibits are a deciding factor for you, check in advance what is currently on display. The former Spaç camp is also part of the region’s history: it is associated with the 1973 uprising of political prisoners and is regarded as a symbol of resistance.
Crafts and regional cuisine
Traditional crafts made from wood, stone and clay, particularly from Zadrima, are sold in shops along the promenades of Lezhë and Shëngjin. Check local availability if you are looking for specific items. In Fishtë, Mrizi i Zanave focuses on products from local farms and vineyards, as well as locally made artisanal products. Offerings include walks around the farm, wine, cheese, jam, workshops on cured meat and tastings. Mirdita has a different flavor of its own: Karrabec is a traditional dish prepared especially at Christmas.
Discover more destinations: Shëngjin, Rubik, Lezhë. Discover more regions too: Vlora County, Gjirokastra County, Berat County, Fier County.
Return to the main travel overview: Albania.
