#NatureTourism

Hidden in northern Greece, the Prespa Lakes region tells a powerful story about sustainable, community-driven travel. It shows how remote places can prosper without losing their natural soul. The basin where Greece, Albania, and North Macedonia meet has become a standout example of inclusive tourism that protects biodiversity and supports local livelihoods.

For Thai readers, Prespa offers a refreshing alternative to overtouristed destinations. The area features two ancient lakes—Great Prespa and Lesser Prespa—that have witnessed the mountains and waters for millions of years. The landscape resonates with familiar Thai scenery: oak forests descending to crystal waters, and villages tucked along ridgelines. Yet Prespa’s biodiversity is extraordinary, with 172 butterfly species documented in a compact region, far surpassing counts in many parts of Europe. Pelicans glide across the lakes, while brown bears roam forested slopes, painting a picture of a vibrant ecosystem comparable to Southeast Asia’s famed wildlife corridors.

A remote, mountainous corner of northern Greece known as the Prespa lakes basin—a crossroads of Greece, Albania, and North Macedonia—is rapidly gaining attention among nature tourists and conservationists, thanks to new research and grassroots efforts to boost sustainable travel while preserving its stunning biodiversity. Once virtually unknown outside dedicated ornithologist and ecotourist circles, this region is now being promoted as a destination for walkers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a deeper connection with unspoiled landscapes, centuries-old culture, and unique wildlife ().