Skadar Lake National Park: Guided Boat Tour to Kom Monastery





Description
Witness the magic of Lake Skadar and the beauty of Kom Monastery on a trip from Virpazar. Travel along the canals inside a traditional wooden boat and savour the region's flavours with local wine.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Your journey begins in Virpazar, where the whispers of Lake Skadar's nature intertwine with the retro echoes of this vibrant fishing village. Virpazar serves as the gateway to Lake Skadar National Park. Nestled between the mountains and the lake's shimmering waters, Virpazar offers breathtaking scenery and a unique opportunity to explore the region's rich cultural and natural heritage. The village is known for its traditional architecture, cobbled streets, and colourful houses that reflect the local way of life. And the best part? This idyllic retreat for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts is just a half-hour drive from Podgorica, Montenegro's capital. Our dedicated team member will handle everything once you arrive at Kingfisher's information desk. They will validate your reservation vouchers and guide you seamlessly through the following steps. With all preparations complete, we are ready to embark on our Lake Skadar adventure!
Depart from Virpazar's pier tucked inside a traditional wooden boat, and glide along a small river canal lined with rustling reeds and willows. You'll be surrounded by nature's embrace, promising a captivating journey through this idyllic heaven. As you leave the river canal, a beautiful sight of the distant Accursed Mountains - The Albanian Alps will greet you. The neighbouring island Vranjina boldly emerges from the glistening waters of one of Southern Europe's largest lakes.
Turn left and slowly sail through the fields of water chestnuts covering the top of the lake's surface. As you pass under the Tanki Rt bridge, the magnificent 18th-century fortress Lesendro appears. Prince-Bishop Petar II Petrović-Njegoš built this fortress in the 18th century, and since then, it has held significant historical and cultural value for Montenegrins. Lesendro symbolises the country's rich heritage and is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The area around the fortress is teeming with life, and you will be mesmerised by the assortment of bird species you can spot in the vicinity. The Morača River, which flows into Lake Skadar, is the lifeblood of this ecosystem. The river is an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, making Lesendro an ideal spot to explore and appreciate the local flora and fauna.
Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking view that awaits you behind the three islets. Prepare yourself to feel the Amazonian vibe in the middle of Montenegro! A stunning panorama of countless white and yellow water lilies surrounded by their lush, dark green leaves awaits your discovery. Keep your eyes peeled, as you may even glimpse some nests filled with the cutest baby birds ever seen - this is a sight you will remember forever.
Your next stop is Kom Monastery. Perched on Odrin Hill, this hidden jewel is accessible by boat only. The monastery is also home to some of the best-preserved frescoes in the area. Enjoy the sweet aroma of wild thyme during your 30-minute visit. Kom Monastery is a historic monastery on a hilltop overlooking Lake Skadar. The monastery was founded in the 14th century and is considered one of the region's most significant cultural and historical landmarks. The sanctuary features a beautiful church and numerous centuries-old frescoes and paintings. Apart from its religious significance, the monastery is known for its stunning views of Lake Skadar and the surrounding wetland area. Visitors can take a short walk to the top of the hill to reach the monastery and enjoy beautiful views of the lake's surroundings from above. The peaceful atmosphere makes this a perfect destination for those seeking a break from city life.
After exploring the monastery, take the opportunity to swim in the fresh, deep-blue waters of Lake Skadar with a beautiful backdrop of mountain ranges and typical Montenegrin countryside. Enjoy the view with a glass of local wine and take one last deep breath of the lake's tranquillity before returning to Virpazar.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We do not provide transportation to and from Virpazar.
- We do not provide parking spots.
- Not recommended for people older than 65 years
- Not suitable for children under 4 years
Reviews(54)
Truly memorable experience! From the welcome upon arrival everything was perfect and as described, the lake is enchanting, as was the stop at the monastery and the opportunity to swim in the lake, we saw many different species of birds, some of which only live there. We were offered some good local wine, with the possibility of refilling the glass. The guide was thorough and very nice: everything went the right way!
Very nice experience with a small hike to monastery and swimming in the middle of the lake. That I enjoyed the most.
Great tour our guide let us know about the wildlife and history of the area There was a stop for wild swimming in the lovely waters of the lake. Would recommend.
Very nice complete and interesting service. Quality comments and pleasant pace. Magnificent landscapes.
A fabulous way to see the lake. Our captain Peta was fun and very easy to talk to. The steps up to the monastery are worth it for the views and to se the old chapel. Wine on board was a welcome extra. The pretty town where you board is worth spending a while in too
The operator offers wise advice about the way other operators try to claim that parking is only free if you go with them. I heard them do this. This is an honest operator. Our captain was friendly and helpful throughout, explaining the sights as we went along, offering free wine, juice and freshly made donuts. Well worth the money.
Wonderful experience. So beautiful even off season. Our guide, Peter, was very nice and knowledgeable. We enjoyed limitless wine and pastries throughout the 3 hour tour. Highly recommended !!!
A nice interesting boat ride with a good guide. Nice to make us taste a local pastry with wine. Excursion with visit to the monastery to recommend.
Great Experience, Great Mood. I did not see the time passed. there were 15 of us on the boat and the guide was very friendly.
A great tour with beautiful views of the mountains and water lilies. These bloomed partially in September, so spring must be even more sensational. The tour was great with a great boat driver some wine and a delicious pastry prepared by the grandmother;-) Attention when parking better not drive into the village, there it is super tight in peak times - better use the parking lot opposite.



