Touring in Macedonia Inland tourism is still a work in progress. So with transportation, you have a golden opportunity to explore Macedonia’s relatively undiscovered natural, cultural and historic treasures.
A trip to Mount Galicica can be combined with visits to Lake Prespa and Lake Ohrid. One point on the road overlooks both lakes – definitely worth a photograph. This park is alive with wildlife, and along the way you may glimpse a chamois, boar, deer, or even a bear.
To the east is Lake Dojran, where you might still catch a glimpse of the incredible tradition of fishing with trained cormorants, whereby the birds catch the fish in their large beaks and bring them back to the fishermen! Also in the east is Lake Kerkini, where you will see rare birds, and maybe water buffalo. Combine this trip with a visit to the Alistrati cave with unique stalagmite and stalactite formations, the waterfalls of Dipotama, Lepida and Traxoni or the forest of Fraktos.
West Macedonia is renowned for its massive mountains, and this trip will reward you with the treasures of Kastoria and its beautiful Lake Orestiko. This charming town, set against a backdrop of imposing mountains, offers museums of Byzantium, folklore and costumes. Wander around the lakeside, home to rare and endangered birdlife, such as the Pygmy Cormorant and White Pelican. | Macedonia Beaches Halkidiki is comprised of its mainland and three peninsulas: Kassandra famous for its pine trees which grow right to the stunning beaches; Sithonia with its traditional, unblemished features and pristine sands; Mt. Athos, the spiritual region with its impressive monasteries.
Kassandra has lovely shores with pine trees that reach all the way to golden beaches and deep blue sea. This area has all the trappings and convenience of a well-developed holiday destination, and has a very lively nightlife, with restaurants, tavernas, cafes, bars and clubs to suit all tastes.
Sithonia, between Kassandra and Mt. Athos, offers a quieter alternative. The beaches are still inviting, the scenery delightful: a stunning coastline, with crystal-clear waters, secluded coves with unique rocky formations; pine forests stretching as far as the eye can see. As well as wonderful architecture and pristine natural beauty, holidaymakers can also enjoy a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs.
Mt. Athos, offers a different experience. Considered the spiritual centre of the Orthodox religion, the region is characterized by its green mountainsides and impressive monasteries. Ouranoupolis and Tripiti offer splendid sandy beaches, clear sea and a beautiful natural setting. Both resorts have well developed tourist facilities, with many restaurants and clubs. |
 Tourism in MacedoniaMacedonia can only be described as a hidden gem. Its rural areas contain pastoral landscapes, high mountains, dramatic coastlines, and beautiful rivers and lakes not noticed by the holidaymakers that do not venture from the region’s beautiful beaches.
Yet Macedonia has the cleanest air and water in Eastern Europe, with pristine lakes, imposing mountains and canyons of rushing water that are fast becoming magnets for the lovers of adventure and eco-tourism.
The Mountain Nature Trail that links the Prespa Lake region with the Pelister National Park abounds with breathtaking views, magnificent landscapes, and glimpses of rare species. This is for serious hikers. Hiking time is approximately 5-7 hours and mountain guides are a must for hikers not familiar with the region.
Year round activities are available in the village of Elshani. Pleasant temperatures from April to October are perfect for water sports and mountain hiking, and the village is great as a base for walks and rock climbing in the Galicica National Park. There is also network of paths, narrow village streets and local uncongested roads that is ideal for walking, jogging or cycling trails for all ages and experience levels.
Last but not least could be a trek on Mount Olympus. Again this is for the serious hiker, although many trails are mapped out, and good equipment is recommended. You don’t have to go all the way to the top to enjoy all Olympus has to offer. The mountain is rich in tree and plant life, supporting over 1700 species, some very rare.
For a radical change of pace, you might try a truly traditional spring water treatment. Some 80 percent of Macedonia is mountainous, and herein gurgle and effervesce some 65 thermo-mineral healing springs, although many are not exploited for the tourist industry. The Katlanovska Banja is a "centre for prolonged healing and rehabilitation." This is not your luxury spa, with candles and massage, perhaps. Nevertheless the healing waters are credited with many accounts of (almost) miracle cures, so ignoring the slightly offensive odour might be worth the effort.
Macedonia Tourist Information Guide travels with you to Lake Prespa and Lake Ohrid, to Sithonia beach, to a Mount Olympus trek, and a Mountain Nature Trail hike. If you travel to Macedonia, this diverse region will not disappoint. An organised Macedonia tour may be what you are looking for, but is not necessary as this region is easy to traverse. Just make sure at some point you check out the Kassandra nightlife to get a taste of local scene. |
