Lake Komani boat tour was a delightfully scenic day cruise through the narrow canyons of Lake Komani in the Albanian highlands. The lake is formed by a dam on the Drini River. The magnificence of the mountains, some of which soar 1700m, was simply awe-inspiring. The boat takes the path of the original river, and it twists and turns, heading for seeming impenetrable rock faces making its slow and unhurried progress. Albania is a beautiful country with a communist past. It has only with only the basic facilities, which makes it even more authentic.
Drive from Shkoder to Lake Komani
Along the way from Skhoder to Lake Komani we stopped in a small town and sure enough it has a fresh vegetable stand, to pick fresh snacks for the day trip.
Cruise on Lake Komani
Lake Komani is stunning. We take a 2 1/2 drive to the other end. Where many travelers get off to go on a multi-day hike and homestay in a remote Albanian village. We have to return next time for the unique Albanian village experience.The mountains come is many interesting shapes as if sculpted by mother nature.The ferry boat was our home for the day – 3hrs going and 2.5hrs returning.We pass by a few little villages like this one, almost entirely isolated from rest of the world.What a relaxing day
On our ferry was this cute family with a toddler. She was adorable.And we arrive at the village stop. Most of the passengers take off to other destinations. Many brought their cars along for the rest of their trips. Many plan to hike for three days and return after their village stay.
Lunch Stop by Lake Komani
We followed this family with four young children in pursuit of a swim hole. Each carrying a bag and a rolled up towel. But it was too hot to keep going and they paraded back, disappointed. So did we.The calf is also curiously looking at us.We decide to spend the rest of the time in the little rustic cafe. The crew and other passengers get their lunch of bread, cheese, sausage and soda. The simple and fresh bread, cheese with coke was delicious but we were glad we packed lunch with us.
The boys (the cruise staff) were super friendly and we tried to converse with the one that knew some English. Most of them live around the lake and captain lives in Shkoder. The boat rides operate during the summer, when they get their employment.
Return Trip
One of the larger farms by the lake.A lady from this house wanted to go to Shkoder, so got a ride on this boat to get to our ferry. From there she drove with us to Shkoder. During winter when everything is covered in snow and there is no ferry, these homes are completely isolated for months at a time.
On the return trip we had a group of 28 retired people from Israel. They were all on a trip of the Balkans in 6 jeeps. We chatted for hours about their trip and lives in Israel. These men were friends from the time they served in military reserve. They have a wonderful retirement life living in a co-op society(kibbutz) that’s very popular in Israel. Unfortunately one of them lost his wife a few months ago. Life is hard and he’ll need to figure what next.
Maybe it’s not all that hard for a man. He was hopeful of finding a desperate widow who will marry him and take care of the home, cooking, cleaning, laundry etc for him.
We return to starting point to take our ride back through the mountains to Shkoder.We totally enjoyed the colors of the lake.
