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Liqeni i Balgjajt: A Glacial Gem of Albania

Discover Liqeni i Balgjajt: A pristine Albanian glacial lake offering breathtaking alpine scenery and tranquil outdoor adventures.

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Liqeni i Balgjajt, or Balgjajt Lake, is a stunning glacial lake nestled in the Dibër County of Albania. Situated at an elevation of 1,799 meters, this natural wonder offers breathtaking views and a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Liqeni i Balgjajt

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Local tips

  • A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended to reach the lake due to the rugged terrain.
  • Visit during the warmer months (June-September) to avoid snow and ice, ensuring easier access and pleasant hiking conditions.
  • Pack layers as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Include rain gear and sturdy hiking boots.
  • Bring your own food and water, as there are limited facilities near the lake.
  • Consider hiring a local guide from nearby villages like Kurdari for a more enriching and safe experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Burrel or Klos, follow the road towards the village of Kurdari. The road is partially paved but becomes a challenging unpaved path as you ascend. A 4x4 vehicle is essential for the final approach. Be prepared for a slow and bumpy ride. There are no tolls. Parking is available near the trailhead, but it is limited and unpaved. The final few kilometers may require careful navigation due to the rough terrain.

  • Hiking

    Once you reach the end of the drivable path near Kurdari, the rest of the journey is on foot. Follow the marked trails uphill towards the lakes. The hike is moderately challenging, with an elevation gain of several hundred meters. The duration of the hike can vary between 1-3 hours depending on which lake you want to visit. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. There are no entrance fees or special transport tickets required.

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Discover more about Liqeni i Balgjajt

Liqeni i Balgjajt is not just one lake, but part of a collection of approximately 21 glacial lakes scattered across the Balgjaj mountain range, which reaches a height of 2,101 meters. These lakes, also known by alternative names such as Liqeni i Balajt, Liqeni i Balgait, and Liqeni i Balgjait, are located near the village of Dragua-Bulqizë. The western part of the mountain range, belonging to the municipality of Klos, features nine of these lakes, known locally as Liqeni i Zi (Black Lake), Liqeni i Luleve (Lake of Flowers), Liqeni i Zotnive (Lake of the Lords), and Liqeni i Dhive (Goat Lake). These lakes are high up in the mountains at about 1,800 meters above sea level, close to the mountain peaks. The Balgjaj mountain itself divides the Drin and Mat river basins. The area's natural vegetation is lush, with oak forests up to 1,000 meters and beech forests above that. At the highest elevations, between 1,800 and 2,100 meters, you'll find forests of Bosnian pine and Heldreich's pine. The lakes are not only beautiful but also rich in aquatic flora and fauna. To visit the lakes on the western side, you can take the route through Burrel (or Klos) to Kurdari village, and then on to the Balgjajt lakes. The eastern side of Balgjaj includes the lakes of Kasni (Dibër) and Bulqiza. This whole mountain range from Lura to Martanesh has the most glacial lakes in Albania, holding about two-thirds of all the glacial lakes in the country.

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