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Scaling Peaks on the Trails of Macedonia

Joined by travel writer Paul Bloomfield, Walks Worldwide team member Samantha Manning recently took to the trails of North Macedonia and liked what she hiked ...

Equipped with sturdy hiking shoes and a small amount of knowledge of North Macedonian history, culture and terrain, I embarked on a new hiking adventure and my first dip into the delights of Eastern Europe.

Flying into Skopje, Paul and I got our first preview of the numerous mountain peaks for which North Macedonia is famous. With approximately 34 in total, there certainly isn't a shortage of hiking opportunities in this fascinating country.

After our early morning flight, an easy introduction into North Macedonian culture was needed and, mirroring our Hiking in North Macedonia itinerary, this came in the form of a short tour and a delicious meal at Stobi Winery. Our first glimpse of traditional North Macedonian cuisine was a feast for the eyes and taste buds, with vibrant salads, fresh sirenje (a feta-like cheese), bread and ajvar (a roasted red pepper dip or relish). Satisfyingly full, we continued to Bitola, the second largest city in North Macedonia, which is located in the southern part of the Pelagonia valley. Enjoying the warm evening sunshine, we explored the ancient ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, strolled down the bustling pedestrianised main street and settled in for a good night's sleep before our first hike the following morning.

Waking to a surprisingly hot day (highs of 28°), we grabbed our backpacks and water bottles, packed our lunches and headed towards Pelister National Park. Starting the day with an uphill trek ascending some 1,200 metres above sea level, we passed forest, wild flowers and the endemic Molika pine trees. With stunning views from the highest point of the hike - Golemo Ezero or Big Lake - we stopped for lunch before heading south-west over Veternica Ridge towards Prespa Lake and down to the quaint village of Brajcino. At a steady pace and continuing downhill for the rest of the walk, we relied on our experienced mountain guide to keep us on the right path. This trail is truly off the beaten track consisting of pretty meadows and long grasses.

One of my particular highlights of the trip was staying at the simple village guesthouse in Brajcino. Although the accommodation was basic, the atmosphere was relaxed, the hospitality was second to none and a night without Wi-Fi was just what the doctor ordered!

Leaving the valley, we travelled towards Prespa Lake and took a leisurely boat ride over to Golem Grad Island. White and Dalmatian pelicans swooped past the boat, leaving the rocky shore to catch fish or possibly just to show off. Once on the island, a short walk through ancient ruins from the Roman and Byzantine eras led us to the nesting spot of cormorants where we watched the young being fed while mum or dad stood guard.

The evening was spent admiring the picturesque town of Ohrid with its Roman amphitheatre, mosques, Byzantine churches and hilltop fortress; you can get lost in its winding cobbled streets and drawn in by its rich history.

Mid-way through the trip and it was time for the toughest hike - summiting Mount Korab (2,751 metres). Walking through forest, past beautiful meadows and skirting around sheep farms, the views become more and more inspiring with every step. The trail is well marked and overall the paths aren't technically demanding, but what makes this particular hike a challenge is that you walk consistently uphill with the occasional steeper section, for approximately four to five hours. Late snow meant we were unable to reach the peak, but the stunning scenery makes this walk worth every step no matter how far up you go. (Summiting Mount Korab is an optional part of our Trails of North Macedonia itinerary).

With our short introduction to North Macedonia coming to an end, we concluded our incredible voyage with a relaxed paddle on Matka Gorge and a visit to the country's capital of Skopje. Choosing to captain our own kayaks (the itinerary includes a power boat ride), we paddled through the serene water, enjoying the natural beauty, listening to bird song and stopping for a few minutes to visit Vrelo Cave before heading back to the dock and our final lunch overlooking the canyon.

For our last night in North Macedonia we took some time to explore Skopje, a fascinating city with its bustling streets in the new town and bazaars, mosques, churches and hammans in the old town. A well earned local brew and dinner in a traditional courtyard restaurant marked the perfect end to our travels.

Join us in North Macedonia to walk the country's trails and peaks, and enjoy a rich and multi-cultural experience.