Vjosë

Vjosë, also written as Vjosa, is a major river in Albania. It rises in the Albanian Alps in the north and flows generally southwest to the Adriatic Sea, covering roughly 270 kilometers. Its basin spans large parts of central and southern Albania and traverses a variety of landscapes, from high mountain valleys to broad floodplains and extensive wetlands near the coast.

Hydrology and ecology: The Vjosë is notable for its largely natural flow regime, with limited infrastructure along many stretches. This has preserved a dynamic river system with rapids, meanders and seasonal flooding that sustain diverse habitats. The lower river and its delta include the Narta Lagoon, forming wetlands that host numerous waterfowl, fish and other species.

Conservation: The river and its delta are part of the Vjosa-Narta Protected Landscape, a key ecological area in Albania. The Vjosë is often described as one of Europe’s last remaining free-flowing rivers, a status that has drawn attention from conservation groups. The river has also been the subject of debate and campaigns regarding proposed hydropower projects that would alter its natural regime.

Human uses: The Vjosë supports fishing, ecotourism and rafting, and plays a cultural role in the communities along its course. Ongoing efforts seek to balance sustainable use with the protection of biodiversity and natural processes, ensuring the river remains largely unmodified for future generations.