Europe / Montenegro & Albania

Montenegro became independent in 2006, making it Europe’s youngest country. It lies in South Eastern Europe, bordered by Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania and the Adriatic Sea. The capital of Montenegro is Podgorica. Despite being a tiny country, Montenegro boasts a wealth of varied habitat and landscapes, all within easy reach. Some of the most striking scenery in Europe can be found on its Mediterranean Sea Coast, which, besides beaches, is also blessed with saltpans, sand dunes and the delta of River Bojana, all important migration stopovers. Further inland lies Lake Skadar, sandwiched between mountains and fed by scenic Rijeka Crnojevica. Pygmy Cormorants can be found here, and the lake is the westernmost nesting place of Dalmatian Pelicans. The mountains of Montenegro include some of the most rugged terrain in Europe, averaging over 2000m in height. The unspoilt mountains of Durmitor National Park are covered with vast coniferous forests, providing habitat for Three-toed Woodpecker, Nutcracker and Ring Ouzel amongst others.

Albania is one of the least known countries in Europe. Lying to the south east of Montenegro, it shares borders with Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia and Greece. Only a few people visit this largely unexplored corner of Europe, hence the dramatic mountains, sandy beaches, historic cities and Roman ruins are less known than they deserve to be. From the birder’s perspective the country’s birdlife is largely undiscovered, so surprises are guaranteed. Karavasta Lagoon is one of the few protected areas with a healthy population of Dalmatian Pelicans and an important wetland for migrating waterbirds.

We can organize birdwatching, butterfly and botany tours for 4 or more days, and activities can be tailor-made to your needs and list of species. The tours can be combined with Croatia, Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Holiday in Montenegro&Albania

Highlights

• Sombre Tit
• Olive-tree Warbler
• Western Rock Nuthatch
• Woodchat Shrike
• Red-backed Shrike
• Black-eared Wheatear
• Rock Thrush
• Blue Rock Thrush
• Ring Ouzel
• Subalpine Warbler