Overview to Macedonia: Travel Guide and Tourist Information
Although the Balkan states are now widely visited by backpackers, Macedonia stands out as one of Europe’s great undiscovered lands. With interminably blue skies during summer and snow in winter, it’s definitely one for the adventurous traveler.
While the capital Skopje is a pleasant place, Macedonia really comes into its own in its rural areas. Here, mountains, lakes and picturesque villages are bathed in an almost otherworldly calm and provide intrepid backpackers with plenty of climbing and trekking opportunities.
Lake Ohrid, to the southwest of Macedonia, is a case in point. Not far from the UNESCO protected town of Ohrid, its warm waters lap up against gorgeous countryside. Among the many delights of the town itself, the Dome of St. Bogorodica Perivlepta is especially unmissable.
Similarly, the Dojran Lake (which lies on the border between Macedonia and, confusingly, the Greek province of Macedonia) is another rural idyll where visitors can pass tranquil days simply fishing and swimming, or walking around the agreeable town.
While hiking around Macedonia may be best during summer, Mavrovo National Park and Golem Korab offer a variety of winter sports. With its cheap skiing, the Zare Lazareski Ski Centre is yet another characteristic of this diverse country that will certainly appeal to budget travelers.