The Drilon-Tushemisht Visitor Center was inaugurated on Saturday, marking a key collaboration between Albania’s Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF), and the municipality of Pogradec.

Why is this important: This project reflects Albania’s commitment to sustainable tourism by harmonizing economic development with environmental conservation. The goal is to enhance tourism while preserving the natural beauty of one of the country’s most picturesque regions.

A new model for tourism and conservation: The visitor center offers a way for tourists to explore more than just the Drilon promenade, guiding them to the springs and Tushemisht village through eco-friendly pedestrian paths. Minister Mirela Kumbaro emphasized that Albania’s small size makes it impossible to have vast untouched wilderness, but centuries of tradition, customs, and craftsmanship have helped protect areas like Drilon and Tushemisht.

“In these protected zones, people are part of the ecosystem,” Kumbaro said. “Albania’s traditions have maintained the balance between nature and human activity, ensuring areas like Drilon and Tushemisht are both preserved and beneficial to the local economy.”

The project encourages locals and visitors to become actively involved in protecting the environment, with strict rules to ensure sustainable tourism.

A positive impact: Kumbaro highlighted that organized tourism, with clear guidelines, strengthens the relationship between people and nature and fosters environmental awareness across generations. “Such projects educate visitors while engaging locals and investors, creating a balance between environmental protection and economic benefits,” she said.

From January to September, Albania’s protected areas recorded 4.5 million visitors, surpassing last year’s total and reflecting growing interest in nature tourism.

An Albanian jewel: Drilon-Tushemisht combines several natural attractions, including the Drilon springs, Lake Pogradec, narrow paths, and characteristic houses, creating an oasis of beauty with diverse tourism opportunities. The project ensures that environmentally friendly methods were used, protecting biodiversity while enhancing visitor access.