Heart Lake: The Jewel of the Accursed Mountains
This is one of Europe's most pristine alpine lakes, nestled in the tallest peaks of the Via Dinarica trail.
Heart Lake owes its existence to ancient glaciers that carved these mountains during the last ice age. The lake measures approximately 115 meters long, 109 meters wide, and 6 meters deep – perfectly sized for its dramatic alpine setting.
Did You Know?
Heart Lake gets it's name from it's distinctive heart shape when viewed from above. It's one of about 20 alpine lakes in the Accursed Mountains, all formed by glacial activity.
Location on the Via Dinarica Trail
Heart Lake sits on segment 9 of the famous Via Dinarica White Trail, a 1,400-kilometer hiking route connecting seven Balkan countries. The lake's position makes it a crucial waypoint for hikers tackling this challenging mountain terrain.
The lake is surrounded by significant geographical features:
- East: Pllaqica e Vokshit (Vokshi Plateau)
- South: Gjeravica and Gusan peaks
- West: Albanian border
- North: Deçan mountains
Lake Facts
- Elevation: 2,282 meters
- Length: 115 meters
- Width: 109 meters
- Depth: 6 meters
- Type: Glacial cirque lake
Nearby Peaks
- Gjeravica: 2,656m
- Gusan: 2,539m
- Trail: Via Dinarica Segment 9
- Park: Bjeshkët e Nemuna
How to Get There
Reaching Heart Lake requires serious mountain hiking preparation. Recent improvements to trail infrastructure have made access safer, but this remains a challenging multi-day adventure.
Main Access Routes:
- From Dobërdol, Albania via Ali Peja Pass
- From Rupa Dobroš, Kosovo through Deçan Valley
- From Bogićevica, Montenegro via Qafa Bogićes
- From Junik through Gropa Erenikut
The best visiting season is July through September when snow has cleared from high passes. Even then, weather can change rapidly in these mountains.
Safety Warning
Heart Lake is in extremely remote terrain with no rescue services nearby. Proper planning, mountain equipment, and experience are essential. Always inform others of your plans and carry emergency communications.
Why Heart Lake Matters
Heart Lake represents something increasingly rare in our world: true wilderness. In this high-altitude sanctuary, visitors can experience the raw power of geological forces and the delicate beauty of alpine ecosystems.
Whether you're a mountaineer, nature lover, or simply someone seeking pristine wilderness, Heart Lake offers an encounter with the sublime. It truly deserves its title as the Pearl of the Albanian Alps.
Planning Your Visit
Essential resources for your Heart Lake adventure:
- Via Dinarica Trail: Official maps and route information
- Local Mountain Guides: Essential for safe navigation
- Weather Services: Critical for high-altitude planning