It is one of the three southern European peninsulas and 500,000 square kilometers in size: the Balkan Peninsula. Poetically, it forms the geographical border between the Occident and the Orient. Its name refers to its natural wealth: BALKAN - "MOUNTAINS WITH MANY FORESTS". In fact, the Balkan Peninsula is a treasure trove of ecological diversity. Its hidden wealth: an abundance of national and nature parks - from Croatia to Greece. From the Alps to the sea.
Like Albania. On the one hand known for its "Albanian Alps" full of fertile plains and rich in lakes and rivers. As well as its "Albanian Riviera" with miles of lagoons as well as the sandy habitats of golden jackals.
The Valbona Valley. Its Alps are part of the GREEN BELT OF EUROPE. Former border area - today a new protected zone for wild animals such as the golden eagle - Albania's heraldic animal. More than 25 years ago, between 100 and 200 pairs of golden eagles circled over the mountains. Today, this number has halved.
The Great Prespa Lake is shared by 3 countries: Albania, Northern Macedonia and Greece. On the snake island of Golem Grad, on the other hand, snakes and birds share the habitat. An 18 hectare isolated natural zone made for pelicans, cormorants and turtles. But the secret island rulers are the water and poisonous snakes.
The Vjosa. Europe's last great wild river. It and its tributaries flow freely - all the way from its source in the mountains of Greece to its mouth in the Albanian Adriatic. Habitat of countless plants and animals. The years-long fight against a planned dam and about 40 hydroelectric power plants made the Vjosa a symbol - the BLUE HEART of Europe.
The island of Sazan. Part of the Karaburun-Sazan Marine National Park. Until today, the island of Sazan is not accessible as a military base. In its waters lie the wrecks of many ancient Greek and Roman ships, as well as warships from World War II. Under water there is a rich marine flora and above water dominates cliffs with caves and secluded bays.