Walking in North Macedonia: Mountains, Lakes & Wine
Walking in North Macedonia: Mountains, Lakes & Wine
Walking in North Macedonia: Mountains, Lakes & Wine
8 Days Starting in SKOPJE and ending in SKOPJE
Visiting: Mavrovo, Vevchani, National park Mavrovo, Ohrid, Galičica, Bitola, Demir Kapija, Holy Mother of God (Treskavec Monastery), Kratovo, Skopje
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MAC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact Wild Frontiers with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
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Tour 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 visit 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.After a chance to sample some of the vintages on offer at the Popoya Kula Winery, we’ll end our adventure with visits to the fascinating settings of Kratovo and Heraclea Lyncestis, before a final dinner in the atmospheric streets of Skopje.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Skopje Airport - Mavrovo National Park
Location: Mavrovo, Skopje Airport Taxi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bistra or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Starting at Skopje airport's this afternoon we'll transfer to Mavrovo National Park. 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 quick coffee and sweet break we will then carry on to Mavrovo National Park, where we will enjoy dinner overlooking Mavrovo Lake.
Day 2 : Mavrovo National Park - Vevchani
Location: Vevchani, National park Mavrovo
Accommodation: Kutmicevica Guesthouse or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 the first part of our walk takes us to a local farm to enjoy a taste of Balkan cheese as well as even perhaps try a hand at goat-milking, 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. From here we’ll pay a visit to Rajcica Monastery, one of Macedonia’s most important shrines and home to the 4th century remains of the hand of St George. We’ll then continue south to Vevchani, a typical village at the foothills of Jablanica mountain. Here we will have a chance to hear the story of the ‘Vevchani Republic’, while tasting some homemade wines paired with home-smoked prosciutto and cheese - a great opportunity to enjoy a true village feast. Approx. 5hrs walking (750m descent. Total distance 10kms, highest point 1500m)
Day 3 : Vevchani - Ohrid
Location: Ohrid, Vevchani
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Royal View or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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. Approx. 5hrs walking (600m ascent, 600m descent. Total distance 8kms, highest point 2040m).
Day 4 : Ohrid
Location: Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Royal View or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
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 5 : Ohrid - Galicica National Park – Bitola
Location: Ohrid, Galičica, Bitola
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Teater
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 8kms, highest point 2255m)
Day 6 : Bitola - Treskavec Monastery - Demir Kapija
Location: Demir Kapija, Bitola, Holy Mother of God (Treskavec Monastery)
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Popova Kula Winery or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 local house. 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. 4hrs walking (500m ascent, no descent. Total distance 15kms, highest point 1256m)
Day 7 : Demir Kapija - Kratovo - Skopje
Location: Demir Kapija, Kratovo, Skopje
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Alexander Square or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our focus today is Kratovo, a fascinating town of medieval towers and bridges connected by an intricate network of tunnels and alleys all set in a volcanic crater. After a short walk up into the meadows above the town to get some wonderful views and meet a traditional beekeeper, we’ll sample some traditional Macedonian spices and have lunch in town. The end of the day sees us back in Skopje, where we will enjoy our final dinner in an old Ottoman trading inn. Approx. 2hrs walking (200m ascent, 200m descent. Total distance 5kms, highest point 795m)
Day 8 : Tour Ends In Skopje
Location: Skopje
Those on the suggested group flight will have a very early morning transfer to the airport. For anyone staying on, the tour will end this morning after breakfast.
What's Included
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MEALS
6 x Breakfasts, 6 x Lunches, 6 x Dinners
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TRANSPORT
On this tour we will use minibuses and boats when not on foot.
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GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 12
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CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to carbon offset & tree planting projects for all bookings
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EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
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ACCOMMODATION
All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary
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ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
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FITNESS RATING
Moderate / High
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
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatoryTips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documentsInternational .Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UKAirport .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
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 our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.com
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.
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 moderate walking (3-5hrs/day on average).
Check out our Q&As
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
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. -
Are airport transfers included in this tour?
We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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What is the maximum group size?
12
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.