Skadar Lake National Park, straddling the border with Albania a short trip from Podgorica, protects the largest lake in the Balkans, a wetland of reeds, water lilies and abundant birdlife including pelicans. Ticketed boat tours from villages such as Virpazar glide among the islands, monasteries and fishing hamlets. The parks combination of nature, history and traditional life makes it one of Montenegros most rewarding attractions and an easy escape from the capital.