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Plan Your Visit to Bovilla Lake

Planning a trip to Bovilla Lake? Read on to know everything before you go—from the best time to visit and what to wear, to how to get there and what facilities to expect. Whether you’re joining a guided tour or driving on your own, here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Bovilla Lake opening hours

  • Bovilla Lake is accessible year-round, 24/7, as it is a natural site.
  • Guided tours generally depart in the morning between 8am-9am.
  • The panoramic restaurant near the lake usually operates from morning until evening, depending on the season.

What is the best time to visit Bovilla Lake?

  • Spring and summer (April–September) are the best months to visit Bovilla Lake. The weather is pleasant, the trails are dry, and the turquoise waters are at their brightest. It’s also the most popular season for ATV and Jeep tours.
  • For fewer crowds, autumn (October–November) offers mild temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Winter (December–March) can be foggy or slippery for hikes, but still offers a tranquil experience for visitors seeking peace and natural beauty. Weekdays are generally quieter compared to weekends, when more locals visit.

Getting to Bovilla Lake

Location:

Bovilla Lake is located about 15 km northeast of Tirana, Albania, in the Gamti Mountain range. The reservoir is nestled in rugged terrain and reached by a partly off-road drive from the city.

​Find on maps

4x4 vehicle overlooking Bovilla Lake during offroad tour from Tirana.

How to get there

  • By car: From Tirana, it takes about 1 hour to reach Bovilla Lake. The last 8–10 km is a bumpy off-road trail, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
  • By taxi: You can hire a taxi from Tirana, though it may be expensive as drivers charge extra for the rough road.
  • By bus/train: There are no direct public transport routes to Bovilla Lake. Visitors are advised to join guided tours or arrange private transfers.
  • Parking: There is limited parking space near the lake and restaurant. Visitors driving on their own should park close to the dam area or the panoramic restaurant.

Know before you go to Bovilla Lakes

Restroom sign outdoors with male and female symbols.
  • Panoramic restaurant & café: Serves traditional Albanian meals like grilled meats, fresh salads, and local raki, all with sweeping views of the lake.
  • Restrooms: Available only at the restaurant. There are no restrooms along the trails.
  • Picnic spots: Several scenic areas around the lake are perfect for relaxing. Bring your own snacks and drinks.
No wheelchair access sign on gravel path.
  • Not wheelchair accessible: The rocky and steep Gamti viewpoint trail cannot be accessed with wheelchairs.
  • Challenging final road: The last 8–10 km is rugged and uphill.
Guests on a platform overlooking Bovilla Lake surrounded by lush mountains.
  • Kid-friendly tours: Children can join most tours, but the steep hike may be tough for very young kids.
  • Relaxing alternatives: Families can enjoy the restaurant terrace or short lakeside walks instead of the full climb.
  • Facilities for families: No baby-changing areas or play zones, but the open nature makes it enjoyable for older kids.
No swimming sign at Krka National Park.
  • No swimming: Bovilla is a drinking water reservoir for Tirana, so swimming is strictly forbidden.
  • Stick to trails: Stay on marked paths for safety and to protect the environment.
  • Drone use: Flying drones requires local permission. Please check regulations before your visit.
Modern hotel room with double bed, white linens, and brown pillows near a window.
  • Maritim Hotel Plaza Tirana: Luxury hotel with spa facilities, ~40 minutes from Bovilla.
  • Art Hotel Tirana: A boutique city-center stay with stylish rooms.
  • Destil Hostel: A budget-friendly and social choice, popular with backpackers. 
National Ethnographic Museum in Kruja with traditional Albanian architecture.
  • Kruja Old Town: Famous for its castle, Skanderbeg Museum, and Ottoman bazaar. Often combined with Bovilla tours.
  • Dajti National Park & Cable Car: A mountain park near Tirana with hikes, picnic spots, and a cable car ride.
  • Tirana city center: Explore museums, cafés, and nightlife just an hour away.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Bovilla Lake

Where is Bovilla Lake?

Bovilla Lake is 15 km northeast of Tirana, Albania, nestled in the Gamti Mountains.

How much does it cost to visit Bovilla Lake?

Tours start from around €28–€30 per person for group trips.

What is the best time to visit Bovilla Lake?

Spring and summer are ideal for clear views and comfortable hikes.

What are the Bovilla Lake opening hours?

**** The lake is accessible all day, but tours depart in the morning.

Can I visit Bovilla Lake in a group?

Yes, group tours and private trips are available.

Can I visit Bovilla Lake with kids?

Yes, though hikes may be challenging for very young children.

Is Bovilla Lake wheelchair friendly?

**** No, due to the rocky terrain and steep hiking trails.

Can I buy food and drinks at Bovilla Lake?

Yes, at the panoramic restaurant near the trailhead.

How long does it take to visit Bovilla Lake?

A standard day trip lasts 6–7 hours, including the hike.

Information

All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

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