An Earthly Paradise in Florina
Within the geophysical boundaries of the Florina region, in the welcoming embrace of the mountains massifs, lies the enchanting realm of the Prespa Lakes. The unique landscape of the Small Prespa and Great Prespa Lakes was created by the melting of glaciers and a series of seismic events, now forming one of the most significant and beautiful wetland ecosystems in all of Europe.
Nature and Conservation
Since 1974, the Prespa National Park has been protected by international conventions, while the Small Prespa Lake falls under the Ramsar Convention. The area is home to over 1,500 plant species, ancient foetid juniper trees, and extensive reed beds. It is a breeding ground for the globally rare Dalmatian pelicans and great white pelicans, along with cormorants and herons. Visitors can observe the birds from the dedicated observation of the Ornithological Society, while the fish fauna is of exceptional importance, as 80% of the fish species are endemic.
History and Sights
The Prespa Lakes boast a rich and vibrant history, initially inhabited by the Bryges and later by the Macedonians, Romans, and Byzantines. A significant landmark is the islet of Agios Achillios in the Small Prespa Lake, accessible via a pontoon bridge, where the ruins of the 10th-century three-aisled basilica stand proudly. In the bay of Psarades and along the shores of the Great Prespa Lake, visitors can discover unique rock carvings and ancient hermitages that bear witness to the region's religious heritage.
Activities and Flavours
A romantic boat trip on the traditional wooden boats, known as plaves, is essential to explore the waters of Great Prespa. The tour ends at the traditional villages of Psarades and Agios Germanos. There, the local gastronomy offers tasty carp, the renowned Florina peppers, and the famous gigantes large white runner beans of Prespa, always accompanied by local tsipouro pomace brandy. Today’s residents combine fishing and agriculture with sustainable tourism, protecting the natural wealth of this unique lakeside area.
SMALL PRESPA
Area: 47.35 sq.km
Maximum depth: 8m
GREAT PRESPA
Area: 272 sq.km
Maximum depth: 5m
Nature and Conservation
Since 1974, the Prespa National Park has been protected by international conventions, while the Small Prespa Lake falls under the Ramsar Convention. The area is home to over 1,500 plant species, ancient foetid juniper trees, and extensive reed beds. It is a breeding ground for the globally rare Dalmatian pelicans and great white pelicans, along with cormorants and herons. Visitors can observe the birds from the dedicated observation of the Ornithological Society, while the fish fauna is of exceptional importance, as 80% of the fish species are endemic.
History and Sights
The Prespa Lakes boast a rich and vibrant history, initially inhabited by the Bryges and later by the Macedonians, Romans, and Byzantines. A significant landmark is the islet of Agios Achillios in the Small Prespa Lake, accessible via a pontoon bridge, where the ruins of the 10th-century three-aisled basilica stand proudly. In the bay of Psarades and along the shores of the Great Prespa Lake, visitors can discover unique rock carvings and ancient hermitages that bear witness to the region's religious heritage.
Activities and Flavours
A romantic boat trip on the traditional wooden boats, known as plaves, is essential to explore the waters of Great Prespa. The tour ends at the traditional villages of Psarades and Agios Germanos. There, the local gastronomy offers tasty carp, the renowned Florina peppers, and the famous gigantes large white runner beans of Prespa, always accompanied by local tsipouro pomace brandy. Today’s residents combine fishing and agriculture with sustainable tourism, protecting the natural wealth of this unique lakeside area.
SMALL PRESPA
Area: 47.35 sq.km
Maximum depth: 8m
GREAT PRESPA
Area: 272 sq.km
Maximum depth: 5m
