Experience the beauty of the largest lake in Southern Europe! Skadar Lake National Park is only a short drive from our apartments, offering boat tours, bird watching, and wine tasting.
For nature enthusiasts, photographers, and peace-seekers, Skadar Lake National Park is an absolute must-visit destination during your stay at Apartments Aerodrom. Recognized as the largest lake in Southern Europe, this magnificent body of water spans across the borders of Montenegro and Albania. Because our apartments are conveniently located on the southern side of Podgorica, reaching the lake is a breeze. A scenic drive of roughly 15 to 20 minutes will take you straight into the heart of this breathtaking natural reserve, making it the perfect option for a fulfilling day trip.
Skadar Lake is widely celebrated as one of the most important bird reserves in Europe. It is home to over 280 different species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The undisputed star of the lake is the rare and majestic Dalmatian Pelican, which has become the symbol of the national park. Taking a guided wooden boat tour is the best way to explore the lake’s hidden corners. As you glide silently across the water, you will be mesmerized by vast carpets of white and yellow water lilies, dense reed beds, and small, uninhabited islands. Many of these islands house medieval monasteries, such as Beška and Starčevo, adding a deep historical and spiritual dimension to your journey.
The most popular starting point for exploring the lake is the charming fishing village of Virpazar. Once a busy trading hub, Virpazar is today a picturesque settlement with stone houses, small bridges, and a deeply relaxing atmosphere. From here, you can rent kayaks if you prefer an active adventure, or simply hire a traditional local boat (called a “čun”) for a guided cruise. During the hot summer months, the boat drivers often stop in the middle of the lake, allowing you to jump into the warm, fresh water for a refreshing swim surrounded by majestic mountains.
Beyond its natural wonders, the Skadar Lake region is also the heart of Montenegro’s traditional gastronomy and winemaking. The area around Virpazar, known as Crmnica, is famous for producing the best Vranac wine—a robust, dark red wine that reflects the sunny and rugged terroir of the country. After a day on the water, we highly recommend sitting down at a local taverna in Virpazar to enjoy a glass of this premium wine accompanied by the lake’s specialty: freshly caught carp, either marinated, smoked, or cooked with onions and plums.
Staying at Apartments Aerodrom gives you the incredible advantage of being just a stone’s throw away from this magical ecosystem. You don’t have to deal with long hours of driving or exhausting bus rides. You can simply wake up, enjoy a hearty breakfast at our property, and be on a boat on Skadar Lake before the sun gets too high.