Is Shala River Worth It in the Off-Season? | Honest Thoughts on Our Albanian Road Trip!

Our Albanian road trip continues with a visit to the stunning Shala River — a place often called the “Thailand of Albania” for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain scenery. But getting there was a journey in itself! What should have been a one-hour boat ride turned into nearly three hours of travel, multiple boat changes, and some serious lessons about traveling off-season in the Balkans. While the views along Lake Koman and the river were absolutely worth it, we definitely recommend spending a night at Shala River if you want to experience its full beauty without the stress of rushing back the same day - or just visit in the on-season. Traveling with young kids makes every adventure more complex, and this day was no exception — but we made it, and the scenery did not disappoint. Shala River is a must-visit in Albania, but timing and planning matter more than ever here. ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 - Intro 00:36 - How Our Day Went - Was it Worth It? 05:24 - Our Journey to Shala River 12:37 - Journey Back to Shkoder 13:08 - Coming Up Next 🇦🇱 Travel Tips for Shala River with Kids: 1. Plan to stay overnight at Shala River — the journey can be long and unpredictable, especially during the off-season. 2. If you're traveling between October and April, expect delays or schedule changes due to limited transport, which changes based on water levels at the river. 3. Bring snacks and layers— the boat ride can get a bit cold. 4. There are few facilities at Shala River, so pack essentials like water, diapers, and sunblock. While you'll find guesthouses and restaurants, it may be difficult to find other essentials. 5. Even with the hiccups, the views are unforgettable — this is one of Albania's most beautiful natural areas. A must-visit, just with the right timing. 📍Next up: We continue exploring Albania with stops in Kruja, Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastër, and the Albanian Riviera — you won’t want to miss it! 🔔 Subscribe to follow our family’s journey through 100 countries! ✍️ Travel blog & Albania guide: www.gabbettsonthego.com 📸 Behind-the-scenes: @gabbettfamilytravels on Instagram 🎥 Next Video: [ Visiting the Historic Town of Kruja ]