Travel guide
Can You Swim in Bovilla Lake?
No. Bovilla Lake is the reservoir that supplies most of Tirana's drinking water, so swimming is not allowed. The lake is for looking at, and the view is worth the trip.
Why the water is protected
Bovilla is a man-made lake, formed by a dam on the Tërkuzë river and finished in the 1990s. Since then it has supplied most of the drinking water for Tirana. Keeping the water clean protects the water supply of the whole capital, so swimming is not allowed.
What you can do at Bovilla instead
The viewpoint
A 15 to 20 minute walk from the car park to the best view of the lake.
Bovilla Canyon
A short stop at the small bridge over the bright green river, one of the most photographed spots on the way.
Restaurant by the lake
A coffee, a drink or a meal with a view over the water (food and drinks are not included).
The off-road drive
In a 4x4 the rough mountain road becomes part of the fun.
Swimming and Bovilla Lake: common questions
Can you swim in Bovilla Lake?
No. The lake supplies most of Tirana's drinking water, so swimming is not allowed.
Is there a restaurant at Bovilla Lake?
Yes. On our tour we stop at the restaurant at the lake, where you can have a coffee, a drink or a meal. Food and drinks are not included in the price.
Do I have to hike to see Bovilla Lake?
No long hike is needed. Many Bovilla tours are hiking trips of several hours up Mount Gamti. On our tour we drive you in a 4x4 to the car park below the viewpoint, and from there it is a 15 to 20 minute walk.
More Bovilla Lake guides
How to visit Bovilla Lake · The Bovilla viewpoint walk · Can you swim in Bovilla Lake? · Bovilla Lake in every season · Bovilla Lake from Durrës
Ready to see Bovilla Lake?
Pick a date on the tour page and send a booking request. We confirm by email, usually within a few hours.
Book the Bovilla Lake tour