Macedonia is likely one of Europe’s most fascinating but underappreciated tourist destinations. You would not assume that a country the size of Vermont has many intriguing sites to explore, but you’d be mistaken. Today, Macedonia is a mash-up of Persian, Roman, Ottoman, and Slavic civilizations, with Orthodox Christian churches and mosques dominating the skylines of major cities, and limestone-crusted mountains looming over the peaceful countryside. There are numerous reasons why you should visit this beautiful country, and maybe this essay will highlight a few of them.
Explore The deepest underwater cave in Europe
Ten caves and more than 70 distinct species can be found in the Matka Canyon. Kayakers and cliff climbers both go to Matka for its tranquil waters and beautiful surroundings, as well as its steep, dramatic canyons. The Vrelo Cave, which may be Europe’s deepest underwater cave, is undoubtedly the most spectacular thing about Matka. Officially, that is Hranicka Propast in the Czech Republic today, although Vrelo has yet to be thoroughly investigated, despite multiple attempts. No one knows how deep this cave is at the moment.
Visit Shara, the mountain of ice lakes
The Shar Mountain is the country’s longest mountain massif, stretching for 80 kilometers. Here you’ll discover some of the country’s tallest peaks, the highest of which is Titov Vrv, named for Josip Broz Tito and standing at 2 748 meters. There are over 100 kinds of flora and animals in the massif, including the extremely uncommon Balkan Lynx. The Shar Mountain is also home to Popova Shapka, arguably the best skiing center in the world, as well as more than 20 spectacular ice lakes. It doesn’t get much better than this if you’re looking for the ideal winter paradise.
Discover Bay of Bones
In Macedonia, the Bay of Bones is a one-of-a-kind event. Visitors can discover how men and women lived in the first millennium BC at this overwater museum on Lake Ohrid, which is an exact replica of a pile-dwelling town. A restored ancient Roman military fortification sits atop a neighboring hill. Both are easily accessible by boat from Ohrid or nearby lake communities.
Lazaropole’s natural beauty is breathtaking.
These are two lovely settlements that many locals are unaware of. This entire landscape is emerald green, shocking your senses. The beautiful scenery, strewn with bits of green and brown, with roads and rivers running through the sceneries, always makes me wonder why there aren’t more tourists. The bubbling waters of the Gari River sing the buzz of the turning earth, and here is one of those spots that will make you forget about your everyday difficulties and simply appreciate nature.
Enjoy the beauty of Krusevo
Snake Island is Macedonia’s own.
One of Macedonia’s most bizarre tourist destinations is Snake Island. It is one of the world’s few landlocked islands. Pelicans, turtles, and cormorants, as well as indigenous tree species, can all be found on this island. Snakes, on the other hand, are what make this island renowned (and therefore a little risky to visit).
Since 2008, people have been able to visit the island. However, because of the enormous number of snakes present, particularly during their mating season, visiting is difficult (and not recommended).
