Walking in North Macedonia: Mountains, Lakes & Wine
Group Tour
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Overview
Straddling the ancient traditions of the Balkans and the Mediterranean, North Macedonia is home to a rich cultural pedigree that encompasses Hellenistic, Roman and Ottoman history. Landlocked and framed along its borders by towering mountain ranges, the country is perfect for exploring on foot, with an abundance of flora and fauna that provides a captivating backdrop to this spectacular walking adventure.
Beginning with a tour of the atmospheric streets of Skopje, before heading ...
Straddling the ancient traditions of the Balkans and the Mediterranean, North Macedonia is home to a rich cultural pedigree that encompasses Hellenistic, Roman and Ottoman history. Landlocked and framed along its borders by towering mountain ranges, the country is perfect for exploring on foot, with an abundance of flora and fauna that provides a captivating backdrop to this spectacular walking adventure.
Beginning with a tour of the atmospheric streets of Skopje, before heading to the famed painted mosque of Tetovo we then take in the breath-taking setting of the Mavrovo National Park. Here, amongst some of the highest peaks in the country we’ll visit Orthodox monasteries and enjoy typical Macedonian hospitality, before venturing on to explore the UNESCO treasures of Ohrid and its spectacular lake. Amongst the towering heights of the Galicica National Park we’ll then trek up to the remote Treskavec Monastery, before heading across the vineyards of the country’s famous wine growing region, with a chance to sample some of the vintages on offer at the Popoya Kula Winery.
HIGHLIGHTS
At a glance
MEALS
TRANSPORT
On this tour we will use minibuses and boats when not on foot.
GROUP SIZE
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
ENTRANCE FEES
FITNESS RATING
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
As an overall ethos, wherever possible we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience, not just offers a bed for the night. This can obviously vary dramatically from country to country and from trip to trip. On this particular trip we will be in a combination of comfortable hotels, a guesthouse and a winery hotel. In Vevchani on DAY 2 it may be necessary for the group to be split between different guesthouses. Please note that the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is always subject to availability.
FITNESS RATING
LOW: You should be comfortable walking around towns and cultural sites. May include some optional walks (typically 1-2hrs).LOW/MODERATE: May be of a long duration and/or involve numerous border-crossings. May include easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-3hrs/day). You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle.
MODERATE: May include several easy/moderate day walks (up to 2-5hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You should be relatively fit and lead a generally active lifestyle. Previous experience of similar trips helpful.
MODERATE/HIGH: May involve several days of moderate hiking (up to 3-6 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
HIGH: May involve several days of moderate/strenuous trekking (up to 4-7 hrs/day) possibly at altitude. You must be a very fit and active traveller with appropriate trekking experience.
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
Map & Itinerary
Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below
DAY 1: TOUR STARTS IN SKOPJE
DAY 1: TOUR STARTS IN SKOPJE
After an early afternoon introductory briefing at our city centre hotel, we'll head up to Vodno Mountain for far-reaching views over North Macedonia's capital city, Skopje. We will take the chair lift up to Millennium Cross, which is viewable from all over Skopje, before walking down the mountain and returning to our accommodation. After time for a quick refresh and change we will then head out to a local restaurant for dinner.
Approx. 60-90 minutes walking (descent 450m. Total distance 2.5km)
DAY 2: SKOPJE - MAVROVO NATIONAL PARK
DAY 2: SKOPJE - MAVROVO NATIONAL PARK
This morning we will enjoy a walking tour of Skopje before transferring to Mavrovo National Park this afternoon. On the way we'll stop at Tetovo, a city built on the foothills of the Sar Mountain. Here we will visit the beautiful mosque of Sarena Dzamija, otherwise known as the Painted Mosque. An exquisite example of Ottoman baroque architecture, the painting to look out for is the standout depiction of Mecca; a rare painting and perhaps the only example of this illustration in south east Europe. After a coffee and a chance to sample some local sweet delicacies we will then carry on to Mavrovo National Park, where we will enjoy dinner overlooking Mavrovo Lake.
DAY 3: MAVROVO NATIONAL PARK - JANCE
DAY 3: MAVROVO NATIONAL PARK - JANCE
The largest of Macedonia’s three national parks, Mavrovo is blessed with breath-taking panoramas, impressive forests and the highest peaks in the country. Today we will drive to Frcec before starting our hike to the peak Medenica, before continuing on to the lovely mountain village of Galicnik. This village (with a permanent population of just 2) provides the starting point for the second part of our walk down to Jance which overlooks the Radika River Valley. Please note that the second walk to Jance is optional, if you prefer you can take the transport down to Jance.
Approx. 5hrs walking (550m ascent, 700m descent. Total distance 9kms, highest point 2,100m)
Optional second walk, 4hrs walking (725m descent. Total distance 6kms)
DAY 4: JANCE - OHRID
DAY 4: JANCE - OHRID
Moving on to the village of Gorna Bellica this morning we take a memorable hike up to the small church of the Holy Trinity, which provides some stunning views of Mount Jablanica, Ohrid Lake, a military road built by the French during World War I and the Albanian borderlands. Throughout our walk there is a good chance we will see Albanian shepherds herding their flocks across the mountains using ancient paths over which modern political boundaries hold no sway. Later we’ll transfer to nearby Ohrid and its spectacular lake, both of which are inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage listing. This evening before dinner we will enjoy a wine tasting at our hotel with wines from the family run vineyard, Winery Mal Sveti Kliment.
Approx. 5hrs walking (600m ascent, 600m descent. Total distance 9.5kms, highest point 2040m).
DAY 5: OHRID
DAY 5: OHRID
Ohrid lake itself is considered the oldest in Europe, whilst the historic heart of the city is home to a staggering array of picturesque houses and ancient monuments that include St Sofia’s Cathedral, Tsar Samuel’s fortress and the Church of St John of Kaneo. After a morning walking tour and lunch at a beachside restaurant, this afternoon and evening are free to explore Ohrid’s hidden valleys, artisan shops and traditional restaurants at your leisure.
DAY 6: OHRID - GALICICA NATIONAL PARK – BITOLA
DAY 6: OHRID - GALICICA NATIONAL PARK – BITOLA
We hike up to Magaro Peak (2255m) this morning, the highest point on Mount Galicica, to enjoy some spectacular views of the Ohrid and Prespa Lakes and the surrounding mountains. Heading on down through the Galicica pass we then drive on to Prespa Lake and charming Bitola. On the city’s outskirts we’ll visit the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis, founded in the 4th century BC by Philip II as a major stop along the Via Egnatia and home to some of the best mosaics in the Balkans. Later we’ll take an evening stroll through the old town to see some of its beautiful neoclassical buildings which date from the period when Bitola was the seat of all the major European countries’ consulates and embassies.
Approx. 5hrs walking (700m ascent, 700m descent. Total distance 8.5kms, highest point 2255m)
DAY 7: BITOLA - TRESKAVEC MONASTERY - DEMIR KAPIJA
DAY 7: BITOLA - TRESKAVEC MONASTERY - DEMIR KAPIJA
A short transfer to the medieval towers of King Marko this morning in Prilep brings us to the start of today’s trek, up to the remote 13th century Treskavec Monastery. Offering up some stunning views across the Pelagonia Fields, the visit provides an opportunity to see the ancient frescoes before we head for afternoon tea (and home-made cake) hosted by our friend Maria in her beautiful home. Finally heading deeper into the vineyards of Macedonia’s wine growing region we will spend the evening enjoying the hospitality of a charming winery hotel.
Approx. 5hrs walking (500m ascent, 500m descent. Total distance 15kms, highest point 1256m)
DAY 8: DEMIR KAPIJA - SKOPJE AIRPORT
DAY 8: DEMIR KAPIJA - SKOPJE AIRPORT
This morning we will depart Demir Kapija and head to Skopje Airport for our lunchtime flight. For clients with flights later this afternoon or post tour accommodation in Skopje, we can arrange for a drop off in the city centre.
ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR
Alexander Square Boutique Hotel, Skopje
Alexander Square Boutique Hotel is a beautifully designed modern boutique hotel located in the heart of Skopje's commercial district and close to a number of sites of interest. Rooms are generous with both space and luxury amenities and some offer fantastic views of the surrounding city. The hotel's team are both welcoming and extremely attentive, and you can enjoy relaxing in the hotel bar and cafe as well as sampling local dishes in the hotel's restaurant.
Hotel Bistra, Mavrovo National Park
Located at the foot of Bistra Mountain and close to Mavrovo Lake, the 3* Bistra Hotel is a great option in one of North Macedonia’s most beautiful national parks. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, you can enjoy a range of facilities throughout the property including a fitness centre, sauna and hot tub area, and delicious local and international cuisine in the hotel restaurant. Nearby chair lifts lead to popular winter ski grounds above, and the ski lodge theme can be felt throughout, with slightly old world but cosy and spacious rooms.
Hotel Teatar, Bitola
Located in the centre of Bitola, the Hotel Teatar is a simple local hotel with traditional elements and family atmosphere. As the name might suggest, 'teatar' is translated as 'theatre', there is a theatre on site which offers an alternative insight into contemporary North Macedonia, whilst the overall traditional style of the hotel compliments the surrounding town architecture. Rooms are spacious and offer welcome amenities including wifi and TV, all with en suite bathrooms.
Popova Kula Hotel, Demir Kapija
Immerse yourself in North Macedonia's wine region as you stay at this charming winery and hotel. Popova Kula Hotel offers simple accommodation, with clean and comfortable rooms, however the real highlight of this place is the location as you're surrounded by stunning views of the surrounding valley. Local archaeological findings prove that the area has been used for growing wine since the 13th century BC, so here you can learn more about the history and traditions of this area.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.
PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?
All group tours can be taken on a private basis.
Additional Details
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Giving Something Back
In conjunction with our local partners in Macedonia, we have helped sponsor reforestation tree-planting projects in the wine region of the country. In addition, in the same area we have been supporting local families by arranging for them to supply our groups with picnic lunches or more substantial meals in their gardens.
Getting There
If you would like us to send you a quote for the suggested tour flights or on any alternative flight that may suit you better, please let us know, noting that for our US clients, we will most likely refer you to one of our preferred partners. For this trip our suggested flights from the UK (subject to change) are shown below.
If you wish to arrange your own flights you are completely free to do so and in this case we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. However please note that if you are planning on making your own flight arrangements, we recommend that you first check with us to see if the trip is guaranteed. We then suggest that you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions.
If travelling to/from the start/finish of the tour from another European country you might also want to consider reducing your carbon footprint by travelling there by train. We are unfortunately not (yet) in a position to help you with the actual booking of the train tickets but lots of good information can be found here - www.seat61.com
| Flight Code | Departing | Arriving |
|---|---|---|
| OS 458 | London Heathrow (LHR) 06:00 | Vienna (VIE) 09:15 |
| OS 775 | Vienna (VIE) 10:20 | Skopje Airport (SKP) 11:50 |
| OS 776 | Skopje Airport (SKP) 12:35 | Vienna (VIE) 14:10 |
| OS 455 | Vienna (VIE) 17:15 | London Heathrow (LHR) 18:40 |
Visas
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Macedonia.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Extensions
If you have more time available, why not arrive early to adjust to a new time zone or just to get a feel for the country before your tour starts? Or alternatively you might choose to allow a few extra days after the tour to relax or to undertake some further exploration.
The choice is completely yours and we can usually arrange anything from simply additional accommodation and transfers to full tailor-made itineraries.
Below is just a small sample of what you could do. Please contact the office for more details and to discuss your individual requirements.
Bulgaria
Why not combine this trip with our Walking in Bulgaria trip? A 5hr bus journey links Skopje with Sofia making for an easy link between the two tours. Allow 11 days (+ any days between tours).
Governmental Travel Advice
Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department.
Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.
Key Information
CLIMATE
North Macedonia has a relatively dry Mediterranean climate. In the height of summer, temperatures in Skopje can reach 40C whereas in winter the mountains offer plentiful skiing opportunities. Our walking departures have been scheduled to coincide with early summer and early autumn to avoid the extremities of both temperatures and crowds. You should expect many fine sunny days but given changes in global climate these days and given the fact that much of the trip is in the mountains, you should come prepared for all eventualities.
IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?
It may sound obvious but Wild Frontiers tours are not always for everyone and it is important to us that the tour you choose is the most suitable. All our tours have a fitness rating as a guideline but you should check the day-by-day itinerary carefully. In certain instances we may ask you to complete a travel questionnaire before confirming your booking in order to ensure your suitability. Should you have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour then please contact the office.
KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER
This is a trip for those who enjoy good food, good hill-walks and the chance to discover a relatively unknown and unspoilt corner of Europe. While all the walks can be opted out of (and luggage will be transported throughout by minibus) they form a key part of the trip and you should be fit enough to enjoy several days of walking (3-5hrs/day on average). Please note that the walks on Day 3, 4, 6, and 7 should be described as moderate walks with a higher difficulty rating than the other walks.
THE NATURE OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL
We feel that it’s worth pointing out that while we will always strive to stick as close to the stated itinerary as possible, it may be necessary from time to time to make changes to our itineraries or services (due to weather, political and religious influences etc.) and this can happen with little or no notice. This unpredictability can be one of the most exciting aspects of adventure travel and for many of our clients often leads to unexpected highlights as the tour-leader necessarily adapts the tour to the changing conditions. However we are aware that this lack of assuredness may not suit everyone. As such, with the greatest respect, if you are someone who needs to know that everything will happen exactly as planned, we would kindly suggest that perhaps our tours are not for you. Adventure travel can be infectious and once you’ve caught the bug, it is likely to never leave you, but especially if this is your first such tour we would strongly urge you to give us a call if you have any concerns whatsoever about your suitability for this trip.
TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation, but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement, we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.
On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
INSURANCE
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
General Information
TOUR PRICE
All our tours are priced on a land-only basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.
DEPOSIT
A £200 (or equivalent) deposit is required to confirm your booking.
PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY
For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page
WILD MILES
This tour will earn you 2416 Wild Miles
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY
If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.