Prespes National Park National Park

Admission: Free to enter the general park; some guided boat or reserve tours may charge a fee

Prespes National Park protects the Prespa lake basin in Western Macedonia, Greece, encompassing freshwater lakes, wetlands and upland areas near the borders with Albania and North Macedonia. The park conserves habitats around both the larger and smaller Prespa lakes and is notable for its biodiversity.

The area is important for waterbirds and wetland species, with internationally significant populations such as Dalmatian pelicans and other migratory birds, making it a destination for birdwatching and nature study. The park also includes traditional lakeside villages and small islands that are focal points for visits.

Historically the Prespa basin has supported fishing, small-scale agriculture and island monasteries; many villages retain traditional livelihoods. Conservation measures and cross-border cooperation aim to protect wetlands, fisheries and rare species while supporting local communities.

Geographically the park occupies a frontier region in northwestern Greece, surrounding the two Prespa lakes near the triple-border area with Albania and North Macedonia. Access is by regional roads from nearby towns and from the regional center of Kastoria and other towns in Western Macedonia.

• Birdlife and conservation: Noted for important wetland bird populations, including breeding colonies of Dalmatian pelicans and other waterbirds.
• Agios Achilleios island: The island of Agios Achilleios contains Byzantine-era archaeological remains and is one of the park’s principal cultural sites.

What to See#

• Great Prespa and Small Prespa lakes: Covers the lake basins and surrounding wetlands of both the larger Prespa basin and the smaller adjacent lake, protecting important wetland habitats and islands.
• Agios Achilleios: Island with Byzantine-era remains including the site of a medieval basilica and monastic buildings, accessible by boat from the Greek side of the lakes.

Access from the Greek side is most commonly by road from Florina (about 40-60 minutes by car) or Kastoria. The main villages (Psarades on the north shore of Small Prespa and Agios Germanos on the west) are linked by local roads; drivers crossing from Albania or North Macedonia should carry passports and check border formalities.

• Bring binoculars and a field guide - spring (April-June) is exceptional for birdwatching and rare waterfowl.
• Visit the island of Agios Achilleios and the village of Psarades to see Byzantine remains and local museum exhibits.
• Be mindful of protected areas and follow local signage; some wetlands are off-limits to boats during breeding season.