The city Pogradec on Lake Ohrid
Panorama of Ohrid Lake(Pogradec)
Pogradec from Kalaja
Lin Village
Pogradec Beach
Pogradec Beach
Pogradec Beach
Drilon Park Pogradec
Drilon Pogradec
Bridge in National Park of Drilon
Sunset on Lake Ohrid
WATERSITE
Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, shared between Albania and North Macedonia. On the Albanian side, the lakefront towns are peaceful, less crowded, and perfect for slow travel.
The main hub is Pogradec, a small town on the lake’s southern shore. It has a long promenade, local restaurants, and good access to nearby villages. Just west of Pogradec is Tushemisht, a quiet lakeside village surrounded by springs and greenery. The area is known for clean water, fresh fish, and relaxed summer vibes.
If you are looking for a quieter alternative to the busy Macedonian side, the Albanian shore is a great choice. You can explore local culture, swim in the lake, hike in the hills, or enjoy traditional food by the water.
The promenade is the center of life in Pogradec. It runs for several kilometers along the lake, lined with cafes, restaurants, and small beaches. Locals walk here in the evenings and families swim during the day. There are benches, shade trees, and a playground.
Tip: Try the famous local fish dish “koran” (Ohrid trout) in one of the lakefront restaurants — it’s served grilled or baked with herbs.
Drilon is a quiet nature park about 5 km from Pogradec. Cold, clear springs flow into small canals surrounded by tall trees and flowers. You can rent a small rowboat or sit in a lakeside cafe with fresh fish. Enver Hoxha, Albania’s former leader, once used it as a private retreat.
Tip: The water from the springs is drinkable — refill your bottle from the stone fountains inside the park.
Tushemisht is a peaceful village right next to Drilon. It has stone houses, flowers hanging from balconies, and small canals. It’s known from classic Albanian films and keeps a traditional atmosphere. There are several guesthouses and small restaurants serving lake fish and homemade pies.
Tip: Walk the small paths behind the village to see old watermills and streams feeding into Lake Ohrid.
Lin sits on a rocky peninsula about 25 minutes north of Pogradec. It’s one of the oldest settlements on Lake Ohrid and still has cobblestone alleys, stone houses, and quiet beaches. Above the village are ruins of a 6th-century Byzantine basilica with mosaic floors (covered for protection but sometimes visible).
Tip: Hike up to the basilica site for a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains — it takes about 20 minutes from the village center.
This ancient Illyrian fortress stands on a hill above Pogradec. There are only low stone walls left, but the viewpoint gives a full view over the town, the lake, and even across to North Macedonia. The trail is short but a bit steep.
Tip: Go just before sunset when the lake glows orange and the walk up is cooler — bring water as there are no shops on top.
This lively daily market near the center sells fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, honey, cheese, and local wine. It’s not touristy, so prices are low and sellers are friendly. It’s a good stop to buy picnic supplies or snacks for a cycling trip.
Tip: Arrive between 8 and 10 AM for the best selection — many sellers pack up by midday.
About 10 km south of Pogradec, this 18th-century Ottoman bridge crosses the Shkumbin River. It’s in a quiet rural area and rarely visited, so it’s peaceful for photos or a picnic stop.
Tip: Combine your visit with lunch at one of the traditional farm restaurants nearby — many serve slow-cooked lamb and homemade yogurt.
There are several small public beaches between Pogradec and Tushemisht. The water is shallow, calm, and clear, making it good for families. The shore is mostly pebbly, and local vendors sometimes rent umbrellas and sunbeds in summer.
Tip: Bring water shoes because the stones can be slippery and hot in summer afternoons.
Close to Drilon, this trout farm raises the famous Ohrid trout (koran). Visitors can see the fish pools and buy fresh or smoked fish. Several restaurants around serve fish directly from the farm.
Tip: Ask if you can feed the fish — they often give children small cups of pellets, which makes this a fun short stop.
The flat lakeshore road between Pogradec, Tushemisht, and Lin is perfect for easy cycling. There’s little traffic and many lake views. Bike rentals are available in Pogradec for about €5–7 per day.
Tip: Start early in the morning or around 5 PM — there is almost no shade on the road, and summer sun can be very strong.
