Pelister National Park – 17,150 ha – IUCN Category II

Established in 1948, it is the country’s oldest national park and is renowned for its extensive forests of the relict Molika pine (Pinus peuce). The park is part of the Ohrid-Prespa Transboundary Biosphere Reserve and includes the western portion within the Lake Prespa basin, which is shared with the transboundary Prespa Park.

The park features diverse ecosystems, including pristine forests, mountain landscapes, and rich biodiversity. It serves as an important site for conservation, environmental education, and sustainable tourism. The management of the park is focused on balancing ecological preservation with responsible resource use, including the implementation of zoning regulations that designate core areas where natural resource extraction is prohibited, and zones where sustainable use is permitted. Efforts continue to enhance conservation practices, monitor biodiversity, and promote environmental awareness among visitors and local communities. Status: Open