Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is a sanctuary of untouched natural beauty and biodiversity. Nestled in the rugged landscapes of eastern Albania, it is established in 2008, this park covers an area of approximately 339 square kilometers. Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its global importance for biodiversity and sustainable development. This designation by UNESCO underscores the park’s role in preserving unique ecosystems and promoting ecological research and education. The park is particularly noted for its role in the conservation of the critically endangered Balkan lynx, with less than 50 individuals estimated to remain in the wild. It also hosts other wildlife species, including wolves, bears, and over 70 species of birds, making it a significant area for biodiversity in the Balkans. Within the park, you’ll find traditional shepherd’s huts, called “stans.” Often located in remote, picturesque settings, they offer a unique window into the traditional ways of mountain life that have been preserved over generations.
Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is close to Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest lakes in Europe. The park’s beautiful forests and mountains are just a short distance from the lake’s clear, blue waters. Together, they make a great place for people who love nature to visit, offering everything from hiking and wildlife watching in the park to swimming and boating on the lake. It is shared and serves as a border between Albania and North Macedonia. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its unique aquatic ecosystem, with more than 200 endemic species that are found nowhere else on the planet. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and the scenic beauty of its surroundings attract tourists and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. Activities like boating, fishing, and hiking offer visitors adventure, while the historical towns such as Ohrid, Saint Naum, Lin etc. along its shores provide a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Within the expanses of Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park, the traditional shepherd’s huts, known locally as “stans,” are a cultural emblem of the region’s pastoral lifestyle. These huts are used seasonally by shepherds who graze their flocks across the high pastures during the warmer months. Made of stone and wood, these rustic structures are a testament to the sustainable living practices that have been preserved over centuries. Visitors to the park can often see these huts dotting the landscape, offering a unique insight into the traditional ways of life that coexist with nature in this remote part of Albania.
The combination of Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park’s natural diversity, the historical allure of Lake Ohrid, and the traditional heritage make some of the best trips proposed by Zemra Travel. This area not only offers a retreat into nature but also serves as a living museum of biodiversity conservation, cultural history, and traditional practices that have been harmoniously integrated into the local environment.
