Table of Contents
Introduction
Nestled in southeastern Europe, North Macedonia is a small but incredibly diverse country. While it flies under the radar of most travelers, North Macedonia has no shortage of awe-inspiring natural landscapes waiting to be explored. Two of its most famous natural treasures are Lake Ohrid and Matka Canyon. Let’s dive deeper into what makes these destinations so spectacular.
Lake Ohrid
Sitting on the border between North Macedonia and Albania, Lake Ohrid is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. It contains over 200 endemic species, leading it to be called the “Museum of Living Fossils.” Beyond its ecological significance, Lake Ohrid has been an important cultural center for thousands of years.
As one of the top attractions in North Macedonia, Lake Ohrid offers plenty for visitors. Taking in the panoramic views of the cobalt blue waters and surrounding mountains is an unforgettable experience. The lakeside town of Ohrid itself, with its ancient architecture and cobbled lanes, is a delight to explore. Sailing, swimming, and fishing in the lake are popular summer activities.
For culture lovers, there are historic churches and monasteries around Lake Ohrid dating back as far as the 10th century. The Robevi Family House and Ohrid Icon Gallery are two museums that provide insights into traditional Macedonian life and art. Whether you want to relax on the beach or soak in the history, Lake Ohrid will not disappoint.
Matka Canyon
Just outside North Macedonia’s capital Skopje lies Matka Canyon, an area of astounding natural beauty. The canyon is home to several medieval monasteries and over 250 species of butterflies thanks to its diverse plant and animal life. Ten caves in Matka Canyon are open for tourists to explore, the most popular being Vrelo Cave with its stunning stalactites and underground lake.
One of the top things to do in Matka Canyon is taking a boat tour on the Treska River that carves through it. Seeing the nearly 1000-meter high canyon walls rising dramatically from the brilliant green river is an unforgettable experience. For the adventurous, there are kayaking and canyon hiking opportunities with sublime views.
The quaint village of Matka is at the heart of the canyon, home to traditional restaurants and lakeside cafes. Be sure to visit the 15th-century St. Andrew’s Monastery carved into a canyon wall for beautiful architecture and rich history. Overall, Matka Canyon impresses with its diverse natural landscapes that make for an idyllic day trip from Skopje.
Additional Notable Landscapes
Beyond Lake Ohrid and Matka Canyon, there are many more remarkable natural areas in North Macedonia waiting to be discovered. Popova Shapka is a mountainous region popular for skiing and hiking with the alpine freshwater Lake Popova Shapka at its center. In the west, Mavrovo National Park is home to North Macedonia’s highest peak along with pristine forests, waterfalls, and the artificial Lake Mavrov.
Lastly, Pelister National Park contains sweeping valleys and mountains dotted with small glacial lakes. Hiking among the molika pine trees and exploring Pelister’s two Big Lakes are highlight activities. With its compact size but varied topography, North Macedonia is a dream destination for nature lovers.
Conclusion
This small Balkan country packs quite the punch when it comes to stunning landscapes. From the historic shores of Lake Ohrid to the soaring cliffs of Matka Canyon, North Macedonia’s natural beauty will leave you in awe. Exploring these nationally treasured places provides insights into the country’s ecology, culture, and history. For an unforgettable adventure that takes you off the beaten path, look no further than North Macedonia’s wealth of captivating natural landscapes waiting to be unveiled.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit North Macedonia?
The best time to visit North Macedonia is in late spring through early fall, between May and September. The weather is warm and ideal for exploring the many outdoor sights.
How many days do you need to properly see Lake Ohrid and Matka Canyon?
To fully experience Lake Ohrid and Matka Canyon, plan on spending 2-3 days at each location. This allows enough time to see the top attractions while also relaxing.
What is the currency used in North Macedonia?
North Macedonia uses the Macedonian denar (MKD) for its currency. Many places aimed at tourists may accept euros, but using denar is recommended.
How do you get from Skopje to Matka Canyon?
Matka Canyon is only about 10 miles/15km west of Skopje. You can take a taxi, rent a car, or join an organized day tour to get between the sites conveniently.
What food is North Macedonia famous for?
Some traditional North Macedonian foods to try include ajvar relish, sopska salad, tavče gravče baked beans, and burek pastries. Grilled meat and fish are also popular.