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Lake Butrint

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Lake Butrint (Albania)

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Lake Butrint is a tectonic lagoon located in the far south of Albania, bordering the Ionian Sea. Covering an area of approximately 16 square kilometers with a maximum depth of 21 meters, the lake is connected to the open sea via the Vivari Channel, facilitating a constant exchange of fresh and salt water. This brackish environment supports high biodiversity, particularly for mollusks and fish species such as the flathead grey mullet. The lake is an integral part of Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient ruins. Historically, the lagoon has been exploited for fishing since antiquity, a practice evidenced today by traditional wooden fish traps (vivari). The surrounding wetlands serve as a critical stopover for migratory birds on their journey toward Africa.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C771013182326262117128
Rain mm11910491585028162484110140150

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The lake is typically accessed via the main road heading south towards the Butrint National Park, with nearby Saranda serving as the most common starting point.
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Best season
Late spring to early autumn is generally the best time to visit, offering warm weather for exploring the shores and observing the region's famous mussel farming.
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Terrain & paths
The immediate surroundings feature mostly flat walking paths along the water, blending into slightly uneven, forested landscapes within the national park boundaries.
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What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for the park trails, along with adequate sun protection, drinking water, and perhaps a camera to capture the scenic views.
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Parking
Visitors can usually find parking spaces near the entrance to the Butrint archaeological site, from which the lake and its surrounding paths are easily reachable.
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Safety
The paths are generally safe, but visitors should be cautious of slippery areas near the water's edge and stay on marked trails to protect the local ecosystem.
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Time needed
Exploring the lake's shores and integrating it with a visit to the broader national park typically takes half a day to fully appreciate the natural and historical beauty.

Geography

Coordinates
39.75000, 20.02000

Facts

  • Surface area: 16 km²
  • Maximum depth: 21 meters
  • Marine connection: Vivari Channel
  • UNESCO status: Part of World Heritage since 1992
  • Water type: Brackish (fresh and salt mix)
  • Economic use: Mussel farming and fishing

Explore nearby

Notable places around

ButrintButrint<1 km · SExplore →
KsamilKsamil3 km · NWExplore →
Butrint WetlandButrint Wetland3 km · SWExplore →
XarrëXarrë4 km · SExplore →
ManastirManastir6 km · NExplore →
Agios StefanosAgios Stefanos6 km · WExplore →
KalamiKalami7 km · WExplore →
AgnitsiniAgnitsini8 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Lake Butrint (10)

Funerary Monument / Columbarium

The Columbarium is a funerary monument outside Butrint's walls near the Lion Gate. It served as a mausoleum.

The Lion Gate

The Lion Gate is named after a relief of a lion devouring a bull's head above the entrance. The relief may date from the 6th century BC.

Junia Rufina's Well

Junia Rufina's Well is an ancient cistern in Butrint. Its exact purpose is not known.

Venetian Acropolis Castle🏰 castle

The Venetian Acropolis Castle in Butrint is a reconstructed fortress. It stands on the hill of the ancient city.

Archaeological Museum of Butrint🏛 museum

The Archaeological Museum of Butrint displays finds from the ancient city. It is located within the park area.

Buthrotum

Buthrotum is the ancient city in southern Albania. It was an important Greek and Roman settlement.

Stadttor

The city gate of Butrint is an ancient gate structure. Its exact dimensions and construction date are unknown.

Medieval city wall

The medieval city wall partly enclosed Butrint. Several sections with towers have survived.

Venetian Tower

The Venetian Tower in Butrint is a ruined watchtower. It dates from the period of Venetian rule.

Venetian Triangular Castle🏰 castle

The Venetian Triangular Castle is a fortress in Butrint. It was built by the Venetians.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is farmed in Butrint Lake?
The lake is famous for its mussel farming, which can be sampled in local restaurants.
Is the lake connected to the sea?
Yes, through the Vivari Channel, the lake is directly connected to the Ionian Sea.
Can you take boat tours on the lake?
Yes, there are tours that often include a visit to the Ali Pasha fortress.
Is the water in Butrint Lake salty?
It is brackish water, a mixture of fresh water from springs and salt water from the sea.
Is the lake located right by the Butrint ruins?
Yes, the Butrint archaeological park borders the shore of the lake directly.
Lake Butrint: where is it located?
Lake Butrint is located in Albania.
Lake Butrint: what is there to see?
Highlights include Funerary Monument / Columbarium, The Lion Gate, Junia Rufina's Well.
Lake Butrint: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Lake Butrint: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Butrint is a tectonic lagoon located in the far south of Albania, bordering the Ionian Sea.
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