A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Despite its accessibility and an abundance of Western comforts, the Republic of Macedonia stands as one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. This nation embodies a unique blend of Balkan and Mediterranean influences, enriched by Roman, Greek, Albanian, and Ottoman heritages. It features a breathtaking natural landscape adorned with historic sites and ruins nestled within charming villages that have remained largely unchanged over the centuries.
North Macedonia is, on paper anyway, a new country. In 2019, this mountainous region in southeastern Europe changed its name, drawing attention to its diverse capital city, historic lakes, hiking trails, national parks, and rich, ancient culture. Situated between Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Greece, North Macedonia beckons travelers seeking authentic adventures.
Skopje has experienced significant transformations in recent years. Whether intentional or not, the capital of North Macedonia has undergone a striking and, some might say, extravagant makeover. Beyond its newly constructed, flamboyant facades and unique embellishments lies a treasure trove of history, atmosphere, and hospitality waiting to be explored.
With visitors to North Macedonia typically flocking to Lake Ohrid and the capital Skopje, Bitola patiently awaits its moment to shine. This enchanting city offers curious travellers significant historical sites alongside a charming cafe culture. Additionally, it features a celebrated international film festival, growing local wine production, and superb hiking opportunities nearby. Consequently, Bitola deserves a place on any North Macedonia itinerary.
At 3:30am, on the fifth day of an expedition along North Macedonia’s mountainous western edge, we traded our trekking poles for reins and mounted horses in search of yet another peak. Headlamps spotlighted the steam from our breath mixed with the fidgety smoke of rolled cigarettes. We left Galičnik, a village tucked into the folds of the Bistra massif, and plodded nose to tail, hoof to stone over seven dark kilometers and up nearly 1000 steep meters of elevation gain to the top of Mt Medenica.
Ask any Macedonian to elaborate on the goings-on at local festivities and they’re likely to begin by reeling off the delicious dishes that accompany the party. Feasting is ingrained in the culture of this small Balkan nation, and a reliance on agriculture and home producing means that North Macedonia has been a haven of organic bounty and slow food long before these became buzzwords for gourmands.