Lake Ohrid

Lake Ohrid is an ancient natural lake on the border between North Macedonia and Albania (not in Kosovo), one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, estimated to be around 2 to 3 million years old.

A World Natural and Cultural Heritage Site

The Lake Ohrid region was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 (for its natural value) and again in 1980 (for its cultural value) for the Macedonian side, and the listing was expanded in 2019 to include the Albanian part of the lake as well.

Unique Biodiversity

The lake is home to more than 200 endemic species found nowhere else in the world, most notably the Ohrid trout (Salmo letnica), a distinctive local dish that has been served in the region’s restaurants since Roman times.

Tourist Activities

• Boat trips exploring the surrounding mountainous coastline
• Walking and cycling along the lakeshore
• Tasting local trout in the villages overlooking the lake

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Lake Ohrid located? On the border between North Macedonia and Albania, not in Kosovo.

Why is it globally significant? It is one of Europe’s oldest lakes and a dual UNESCO site (natural and cultural).