マケドニアのおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

For Western Europeans, the name Galicia first brings to mind the region in northwestern Spain best known for the famous pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela (with the tomb of the Apostle James the Greater). But the name also appears here, as the name of a national park. The website mazedonien.de writes: "Galičica National Park, in the southwestern part of North Macedonia, has its highest peak, Magaro, at 2,255 meters above sea level, from where you can enjoy a unique view of the two beautiful lakes, Ohrid and Prespa. The mountains are also home to several rare animals such as bears, lynx, and wolves, but the park also harbors many birds, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as plants and trees. The park was established on January 1, 1999, under the name 'Bistritsa-Magarita National Park,' but it changed its name to Galičica National Park in March 2008..." (Source: https://mazedonien.de/trekking-natur/galicica-nationalpark/)

You really have to look to spot the swimmer.

A steel cross stands atop Vodno Mountain. Accessible via hiking trails and a cable car (€2). A snack bar is available. On a clear day, there are views of Skopje and the ski resorts of North Macedonia.

The visit is free and can be easily combined with the other highlights in the area in a tour

The entrance fee is currently 150 denars, or €3. Paying in Macedonian denars is definitely the better option. It's best to keep small bills handy in your wallet.

Be careful in July and August! Get an entry permit for the Mavrovo National Park, because there is a possibility that they will ask you for it at the checkpoint (5th km of the dirt road). Some were asked, some were not..

⚠️ Closed on Mondays!

At the beginning of the Matka Canyon, there are various stalls, then a narrow path leads along the cliffs past the dam to the oldest artificial lake in the country. There, you can continue by boat or enjoy a meal and a drink at the restaurant. When I was there on a Monday, it was relatively quiet, so it was possible to cycle into the gorge. During peak season or on weekends, this would probably be impossible. There are ten caves in the Matka Canyon, the shortest of which is 20 meters long and the longest 176 meters. Visitors and tourists can explore the Vrelo Cave during a 20-minute boat ride in the Matka Canyon.