Pustec, Prespa Lake & Maligrad Island Tour

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Pustec

Duration: 4 hours

Languages:

Guru: Eljo

PRO

Verified quality

Registered on 11 October 2022

I am Eljo, a certified local guide. I have a degree in Geography / History & master in science of leadership. I speak well english and italian language. "Collect moments instead of things"- With this tour exclusively focused in Pogradec and Korça region, I will guide you in the destinations around Lake Ohrid part of UNESCO heritage, to the places that have been part of our ancient history, or hiking in the hidden gems of Region. For more information, please visit our website: www.lihnidtours.com

GuruWalk Original

GW Original Free tours are chosen by our staff among the best and are unique tours that you will only find on GuruWalk.

Free reservation and cancellation

Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free

Tour description

Step off the beaten path and discover one of Albania's most serene and mystical landscapes: Great Prespa Lake and the enigmatic Maligrad Island. Nestled at the tri-border of Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece, Prespa is Europe's highest tectonic lake at 853 meters above sea level. This hidden gem is a vital biodiversity hotspot and a tranquil retreat far from tourist crowds.

Your journey begins with a comfortable pickup from Pogradec or Korçë in a private vehicle, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who will share the region's rich stories, cultural heritage, and legends. The route takes you to the lakeside village of Pustec, situated in the heart of Albania's Macedonian minority region.

From Pustec, set sail on a calm boat ride over the lake's crystal-clear waters toward Maligrad Island—locally known as "The Island of Snakes." This striking limestone islet is home to a 14th-century Orthodox cave church dedicated to Saint Mary. Commissioned by Serbian nobleman Kesar Novak, the church is carved into the rocky cliffs and adorned with faded medieval frescoes that whisper tales of faith and time.

Wander through the island's rugged natural beauty, spot rare bird species like pelicans, cormorants, and herons, and explore ancient caves sculpted by centuries of water and wind. This tour offers an intimate, off-the-grid experience deeply rooted in the natural rhythms and cultural soul of southeastern Albania.

Highlights

What will we see on this tour?

Meeting point:

WM25+F52, Rruga Rinia Rd 13, Pogradec, Albania

Your journey begins with a comfortable pickup from Pogradec (NERANXI, Road Rinia Rd); or Korçë (Han of Bazaar).

Outside visit

Punto de encuentro

The first stop will be at the panoramic viewpoint, where the lake first comes into view. Here, in front of the park map, we’ll get essential information about the National Park and its unique ecosystem.

Outside visit

Ethno Museum Pustec

The second point of interest is the village of Pustec, where we’ll visit the village center and the Church of St. Michael. We’ll also explore the Ethnographic Museum, located in a traditional house, to learn more about the culture and traditions of the Macedonian minority living in the area.

Outside visit

Saint Mary Church

Finally, we’ll take a boat trip to Maligrad Island to visit the Church of St. Mary, built inside a cave once inhabited by hermits. There, we’ll also admire the ancient mural paintings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the island.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.