Viluni Lagoon

Viluni Lagoon is a coastal lagoon on Albania's northern Adriatic coast, near Velipojë in Shkodër County. It is one of the defining natural features of the region, valued for its wetlands, birdlife, and scenic landscapes, and forms part of the protected Buna River–Velipojë landscape.

Natural environment

The lagoon lies just east of Velipojë Beach and was historically a marine inlet before evolving into its present-day lagoon and estuarine system through the influence of the Buna River. It is connected to the Adriatic Sea by a natural channel, creating a dynamic mix of saltwater and freshwater habitats that support a rich aquatic ecosystem.

Wildlife and conservation

Laguna e Vilunit is internationally recognized for its ecological importance. As part of the Buna River–Velipojë Protected Landscape, it is included within an Important Bird Area, providing habitat for numerous resident and migratory bird species that travel along the Adriatic flyway. The surrounding wetlands also support fish, reptiles, and other wildlife, making the area significant for biodiversity conservation.

Location and significance

The lagoon is located approximately 2 km east of Velipojë Beach within northwestern Albania and is represented locally as the lagoon point of interest: Laguna e Vilunit. Together with the Buna River estuary, nearby dunes, forests, and coastline, it forms one of Albania's most important coastal wetland landscapes for both conservation and nature-based tourism.