Lake Skadar (Shkodra) is the largest lake in the Balkans. Lake area: 390 km², but can grow to 530 km². The average depth of the lake is 5 meters. Absolute height above sea level: 5 meters. The lake was declared a national park in 1983. The lake lies between two countries: Montenegro and Albania. The national park of the same name stands out among the four others - it is the only one in Montenegro whose main attraction is not the mountains (or gorges), but the aquatic and wetland ecosystems. Lake Skadar is home to 281 species of birds. Some live here permanently, others nest or hibernate, waiting for the cold in northern European and Scandinavian countries.
There are about 45 species of freshwater fish in the lake. Lake Skadar is one of the best places for fishing in Montenegro. In addition to fishing, you can rent a boat in Shkodër and simply swim in its waters for tourist purposes and admire nature. There are about 50 islands on the territory of the lake. On some islands there are ruins of ancient monasteries and fortresses. During the wars, the lake was not only a natural object, but also had strategic military value. For example, the Kom Monastery, built in the 15th century. Here a monk lives alone and spends his days in prayer.