In short
- Swimming is legally banned.
- The lake provides Tirana's drinking water.
- Visitors hike the viewpoint trail instead.
In this article
Bovilla Lake features striking turquoise water that looks inviting, especially in the intense summer heat. However, visitors cannot swim here under any circumstances. You must stay on the shore and enjoy the views from the surrounding trails.
Why is swimming in Bovilla Lake forbidden?
Swimming is banned because the lake serves as the primary drinking water reservoir for Tirana.
To protect the city's water supply, the law strictly prohibits swimming or entering the water. Visitors must respect this rule and stay on the designated shores and trails. If you visit the Bovilla Dam, you can take photos, but you cannot go into the water.
Are there any spots at the lake where swimming is allowed?
No, swimming is prohibited everywhere in the Bovilla reservoir.
There are no designated swimming beaches or exceptions to the rule. The entire body of water is a protected zone. Do not pack a swimsuit expecting to cool off in the lake.
What can you do at Bovilla Lake instead of swimming?
The main activity at Bovilla Lake is hiking the steep trail up Mount Gamti.
You can walk the 1-kilometer trail to the Balcony of Bovilla. This viewing platform sits 620 meters above sea level and provides panoramic views of the water. The hike takes 35 to 45 minutes and climbs 160 meters in elevation.
How to prepare for the heat without swimming?
Bring plenty of drinking water and visit during cooler hours.
Since you cannot cool off in the lake, pack at least 1 to 2 liters of water per person. Wear a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Best Time to avoid the intense midday heat.
Can you buy drinks at Bovilla Lake?
Yes, there is a restaurant located about halfway up the viewpoint trail.
The Bovilla Restaurant serves traditional Albanian food and drinks. It is a good place to buy cold water or grab a quick coffee before you tackle the final, steepest part of the climb.
What are the rules for the viewpoint hike?
You must stay on the marked trails and pay a 100 LEK entry fee for the stairs.
While general access and parking are free, the metal stairs bolted to the rock face cost 100 LEK (about €1). Staying on the path prevents loose rock falls. The gravel can be slippery on the descent, so grippy shoes are required.
Questions travellers ask
Can I dip my feet in the water at Bovilla Lake?
No. Entering the water in any capacity, including wading or dipping your feet, is forbidden to protect the drinking water supply.
Do guided tours include a swimming stop?
No guided tours offer swimming at Bovilla Lake. Tours focus on driving to the area and hiking the Mount Gamti trail.
Is it safe to drink the water straight from the lake?
No. Although it is a reservoir, the water must be treated before it is distributed as drinking water to Tirana.
