Small Prespa Lake: A Balkan Haven for Wildlife and History
Discover Small Prespa Lake: A Balkan treasure of biodiversity, history, and serene landscapes, home to rare birds and ancient ruins.
Small Prespa Lake, shared between Greece and Albania, is a biodiverse wetland renowned for its birdlife, including the world's largest Dalmatian pelican colony. The island of Agios Achilleios, accessible by a floating bridge, features historical ruins and adds to the lake's serene beauty.
A brief summary to Small Prespa Lake
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography and to observe the diverse birdlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching to fully appreciate the diverse avian life.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to explore the trails around the lake and on Agios Achilleios island.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure an enjoyable experience.
- Explore the island of Agios Achilleios, accessible by a floating bridge, to see the ruins of the Byzantine basilica and experience the local culture.
Getting There
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Walking
From the village of Agios Germanos, a popular base for exploring the Prespa region, follow the main road towards Mikrolimni. After a short distance, you'll see signs for Agios Achilleios. A well-maintained path leads to a floating bridge, approximately 850 meters long, that connects the mainland to the island. The walk across the bridge offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding reedbeds. There is no cost to walk across the bridge.
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Public Transport
From the town of Florina, take a bus towards Prespes. The bus will typically stop at Agios Germanos, the closest village to Small Prespa Lake with public transport access. From Agios Germanos, follow the walking directions to reach the lake and Agios Achilleios. Bus fare from Florina to Agios Germanos is approximately €3-€5. Check local schedules for accurate times.
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Taxi
From Florina, you can hire a taxi to take you directly to the entrance of Agios Achilleios. The taxi ride is approximately 45km and costs around €40-€50. This is the most convenient option if you are short on time or have difficulty walking long distances. Be sure to negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Small Prespa Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Small Prespa Lake
0.0 km
Discover Small Prespa Lake: A Balkan treasure of biodiversity, history, and serene landscapes, home to rare birds and ancient ruins.
Agios Achillios bridge
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Maligrad
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Prespa
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Mali i Thatë
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