Pogradec is one of the most charming tourism destinations in Albania set on the shores of Lake Ohrid. The journey to Pogradec is always inspiring. The more you travel here, the more you become addicted to the city. Travelling over Qafe Thane, reaching the pass and begining the descent down to Lake Ohrid and the beautiful village of Lin with its magnificent scenery surrounded by hills unfolds itself like a book to the eye of the tousists. The beauty and tranquility of the lake move your soul. Once in the city, a long promenade, invites you for a long walk. Pogradec is very welcoming, and people are among the most friendly in Albania, the lake has softened their hearts.. The city was home to many of the country's famous writers and poets: Lasgush Poradeci and Mitrush Kuteli, and lately Luan Starova and painters Anastas Kostandini(Taso), Gjergji Lako, Gentian Zeka, Vangjo Vasili and Ilir Dhima.
Cultural heritage
In the west side of Lin pennisula you can visit the paleochristian church, a National Cultural Monument of Albania included within the site on the UNESCO Tentative List of Albania for the Natural and Cultural Heritage of Ohrid Region (Albania). The Illyrian Tombs of Selca e Poshtme (40km from Pogradec) is another important site to visit. The tombs rest among the remains of the ancient city of Pelion, an Illyrian settlement of the Enchele tribe and the residence of Illyrian kings. In 1996, Albania proposed the Royal tombs of Selca e Poshtme on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Other archaeological sites include: Other churches to visit are the church of Saint Dimitri (small Orthodox church of 1154 AD) and the church of Saint Marena ( Orthodox church rebuilt in 1744).
What to see
Lin Village and its mosaic are a natural first stop on a jounrey to Pogradec. The village lies in a quiet and picturesque bay, with beautiful houses with red tiled roofs
Drilon National Park, is also an essential place to see in Pogradec with crystal clear springs that supply the beautiful channels overhung with trees and ornamental plants. This was the holiday home for the former dictator Enver Hoxha, whose villa is now a hotel and restaurant.
Tushemisht Village and its newly renovated centre is not to be missed. The blogger Yomadic refers to it as Albania's "small Venice" full of canals with clear waters emerging from the mountain that ironically is named "The Dry Mountain".
What to do
Pogradec is perfect for a relaxing holiday. Peak months are July and August, when the lakeside teems with beach lovers in the sun. Pedal boats are available, and canoeing and kayaking activities are growing in popularity.. Off season, the city goes back to its tranquility, and is ideal for walking and meditation. In winter the scenes are very panoramic, often spectacular with snow covering the mountains, set above a background of green and blue. One of the highlights of Pogradec is its delicious cuisine.
Cultural heritage
In the west side of Lin pennisula you can visit the paleochristian church, a National Cultural Monument of Albania included within the site on the UNESCO Tentative List of Albania for the Natural and Cultural Heritage of Ohrid Region (Albania). The Illyrian Tombs of Selca e Poshtme (40km from Pogradec) is another important site to visit. The tombs rest among the remains of the ancient city of Pelion, an Illyrian settlement of the Enchele tribe and the residence of Illyrian kings. In 1996, Albania proposed the Royal tombs of Selca e Poshtme on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Other archaeological sites include: Other churches to visit are the church of Saint Dimitri (small Orthodox church of 1154 AD) and the church of Saint Marena ( Orthodox church rebuilt in 1744).
What to see
Lin Village and its mosaic are a natural first stop on a jounrey to Pogradec. The village lies in a quiet and picturesque bay, with beautiful houses with red tiled roofs
Drilon National Park, is also an essential place to see in Pogradec with crystal clear springs that supply the beautiful channels overhung with trees and ornamental plants. This was the holiday home for the former dictator Enver Hoxha, whose villa is now a hotel and restaurant.
Tushemisht Village and its newly renovated centre is not to be missed. The blogger Yomadic refers to it as Albania's "small Venice" full of canals with clear waters emerging from the mountain that ironically is named "The Dry Mountain".
What to do
Pogradec is perfect for a relaxing holiday. Peak months are July and August, when the lakeside teems with beach lovers in the sun. Pedal boats are available, and canoeing and kayaking activities are growing in popularity.. Off season, the city goes back to its tranquility, and is ideal for walking and meditation. In winter the scenes are very panoramic, often spectacular with snow covering the mountains, set above a background of green and blue. One of the highlights of Pogradec is its delicious cuisine.