마케도니아‬에서 가장 멋진 ‪20‬개의 천연기념물

Please note that a passport is required for this hike because you have to cross the border with North Macedonia. We left them at the hotel and had to turn back!

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.

We decide to go for a walk here, a beautiful walk through the forest of 2.5 km. On the way we come across a very small church (Church of Holy Mother of God) that lies against the source of Lake Ohrid. The water here is very clear and the vegetation on the bottom is very beautiful to see. We walk on and come across the next church (Church of Saint Athanasius). Here are also the homes of the nuns/brothers and the caretaker. Unfortunately the church is closed, but then the caretaker comes running to open the church especially for us! He gives some explanation about the church and officially we were not allowed to take pictures, but for this time he allowed it. Very beautiful church too, very richly decorated.

A beautiful little chapel at one of the springs of Lake Ohrid. The interior of the chapel reflects this. The exterior is also beautifully designed.

Yes, part of the route is actually along the road, but since the traffic is clear, it wasn't that dramatic. The destination, however, is worth it.

It can get very crowded on weekends in spring and summer, with cars and tour buses backing up the small access road. But the views and scenery are incredibly beautiful. The water of the Treska River, which flows through the gorge, is ice-cold even in summer. A refreshing dip is still worthwhile. Worthwhile: There's a 20-km hiking trail from Vodno to the Matka Gorge and vice versa, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and the surrounding area. For example, you can hike from Skopje to the gorge and then take a taxi back.

Lake Ohrid is also called the Lake Garda of the Balkans. If you look at some pictures you will know why.

The two countries share this peak. That's why you can climb it from both sides. In my case, I chose the route in Albania. I think the surroundings are very beautiful and you have a great view from the top when the weather is good.