What is the course of the Vjosa National Park from Pindus to the Adriatic?
The river Vjosa runs from the Pindus range in Greece, where it is called the Aoös, to the Adriatic Sea in Albania. Këlcyrë sits in a strategic position between the Trebeshinë and Nemërçkë mountains, near the Vjosa. The National Tourism Agency (AKT) describes the Vjosa as "one of the last wild rivers in Europe".
The river flows through the gorge before continuing towards the coast. For the natural context of the limestone pass itself, see our article on Këlcyrë Gorge and our Vjosa rafting guide.
What official protection status and hectarage does the park hold?
Declared on 15 March 2023, it is Europe’s first Wild River National Park. Protected under IUCN Protected Area Management Category II, it safeguards over 400 kilometres of free-flowing river.
Phase I covers 12,727 hectares and became operational by early 2024. Phase II will add further tributaries.
Which species and partners were involved in establishing the park?
The river and its surroundings host over 1,100 species of animals. Of those, 13 animal species and 2 plant species are assessed as globally threatened on the IUCN Red List.
The park was created by the Albanian Government, IUCN, and Patagonia, alongside the Save the Blue Heart of Europe campaign NGOs and 30+ specialists.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Vjosa National Park declared and what is its status?
The Vjosa River was declared a national park on 15 March 2023 as Europe’s first Wild River National Park. It is protected under IUCN Category II over 400 kilometres of free-flowing river.
How large is the park area and how is it being implemented?
Phase I of the park covers 12,727 hectares and became operational by early 2024. Phase II will add further tributaries.
Who created the Vjosa Wild River National Park?
The park was created by the Albanian Government, IUCN, and Patagonia, alongside the Save the Blue Heart of Europe campaign NGOs and 30+ specialists.
What is the geographic course of the Vjosa River?
The river runs from the Pindus range in Greece, where it is called the Aoös, to the Adriatic in Albania. Këlcyrë sits in a strategic position between the Trebeshinë and Nemërçkë mountains near the river.