TIRANA, Aug 8 /ATA/ Amid lush greenery, crystal-clear springs and the tranquility of nature, Drilon in Pogradec remains one of the most popular summer destinations for tourists.

Every day, hundreds of domestic and international visitors stop at the natural park to enjoy its unique scenery, take boat rides and relax along the shores of Lake Ohrid.

Drilon, also known as Voloreka among residents of Pogradec, is located just 6 km from the city and is one of Albania’s most scenic attractions. Following investment in the area, including the construction of around 4 km of pedestrian paths, the park has been expanded, further enhancing its tourism potential.

Erjon Vesho, director of the Drilon-Tushemisht Water Park Centre, told ATA that Drilon welcomed 24,131 visitors between January and the end of July, with the busiest period recorded in June and July. Visitor numbers were up 19.4% compared with the same period last year, he said.

A Visitor Centre has also been built at the entrance to Drilon and is expected to open to tourists soon.

“The Visitor Centre is nearing completion and I expect it to be accessible to visitors in October. It will feature exhibition spaces dedicated to the flora, fauna, cultural heritage, traditions and archaeology of the wider region, rather than Drilon-Tushemisht alone. The exhibits will use digital technology, including screens and audio, as well as real displays of local flora and fauna,” Vesho said.

Visitors can stroll along the landscaped pathways, take boat rides through the natural waterways, photograph the swans and other birds that inhabit the park, and sample traditional local dishes at restaurants along the lakeshore.

Investment in tourism infrastructure in recent years, including the expansion of walkways, construction of bridges and cycling lanes, and the addition of green spaces, has significantly enhanced Drilon’s potential as a destination for nature and family tourism.

Thanks to its location near Lake Ohrid and its proximity to Tushemisht and St Naum, Drilon has become a must-visit destination for tourists exploring southeastern Albania, offering a combination of nature, history and the area’s renowned hospitality.

/sm/