Island Golem Grad

The Island Golem Grad is one of the three islands in the waters of Lake Prespa, but the only one within the borders of R.N. Macedonia.

The site is important and specific not only for its location, but also for its cultural-historical and natural values ​​and characteristics. The whole island is a kind of archeological site, both from Roman times and more recently. The island houses three churches from the period of early Christianity, which are one of the oldest in the Balkans. The most preserved and restored is the church of St. Petar, dating from the 14th century. Apart from the preserved church of St. Petar and the medieval church of St. Dimitrija, there is also an early Christian basilica from the end of the IV and the beginning of the V century, where remains of a floor mosaic have been discovered.

The fauna of this locality consists of rare and endemic species of birds (cormorant, gray heron) and water snakes, while the flora is characterized by the presence of the foyer, which except in Prespa is found in the Caucasus, Iraq, Lebanon and Minor Asia.

The island is 750 m long and 450 m wide, with the highest part 50 m above the lake. The island is surrounded on all sides by rocks and cliffs 20 to 30 meters high. It is protected by law and it is part of NP Galicica.

The natural location, the beauty, the natural climate and the isolation have contributed to the true values ​​of the island to remain intact for centuries.

Visiting Golem Grad requires a consent from NP Galicica, which manages this protected area. Transportation is done by private boats from individuals living in the village Stenje, v. Konjsko, v. Dolno Dupeni and the village of Pretor. To get to Golem Grad as soon as possible, it is advisable to rent a boat in the village Stenje (60-70 minutes by boat) or in the village Konjsko (20-30 minutes by boat), which are the closest settlements to the island. The Lakeview Hotel also has a licensed boat with an authorized driver. Lakeview also organizes tours to the island of Golem Grad with a catamaran with a capacity of 12 people. The most suitable time to visit from the year is spring and summer and it is recommended to organize the tours in the morning, in the early morning hours, when the lake is calmest.

,, LAKEVIEW,, Oteshevo - contact: 072/706 549

 - www.lakeviewotesevo.com

NP Galicica - Contact: 075/282 207