Natural beauty of North Macedonia : Best spots & other details

 

North Macedonia officially became an independent country on September 8, 1991. This independence followed the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. Prior to that, it had been one of the constituent republics within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. After gaining independence, the country was initially known as the "Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" (FYROM) due to a naming dispute with Greece, which was resolved in 2019 when the country officially changed its name to the "Republic of North Macedonia."

North Macedonia offers a rich cultural and natural experience. Here are some of the best places to visit:

1. **Skopje**: The capital city is known for its unique blend of old and new architecture, including the impressive Skopje Fortress and the modern Skopje Eye Bridge. Don't miss the Old Bazaar, a bustling market filled with history.

2. **Ohrid**: This picturesque town on Lake Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's famous for its beautiful lake, historic churches, and the ancient theater.

3. **Bitola**: Known as the "City of Consuls," Bitola has a charming old town, Ottoman-era architecture, and the Heraclea Lyncestis archaeological site.

4. **Matka Canyon**: Located just outside Skopje, this canyon is perfect for nature lovers. You can take a boat ride on the river and explore caves and hiking trails.

5. **Struga**: Another lovely town on Lake Ohrid, Struga is known for its poetry evenings and the Struga Poetry Evenings festival. It's also a great place to relax by the lake.

6. **Mavrovo National Park**: Explore pristine nature with hiking, skiing (in winter), and the beautiful Mavrovo Lake.

7. **Pelister National Park**: Visit Pelister Mountain for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and the rare Molika pine trees.

8. **Krusevo**: Known for its paragliding opportunities, Krusevo is also a historic town with a strong Macedonian identity.

9. **Tetovo**: Visit the Painted Mosque (Šarena Džamija) with its colorful exterior and the Arabati Baba Tekke, a Sufi monastery.

10. **Prespa Lake**: This tranquil lake is shared with Greece and Albania and offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful landscapes.

Remember to sample Macedonian cuisine, which includes dishes like Tavče gravče (baked beans), Ajvar (pepper-based condiment), and plenty of delicious pastries and coffee. Enjoy your trip!

The best seasons to visit North Macedonia depend on your preferences. Here's a breakdown of the seasons and the cuisines to enjoy during your visit:

**Best Seasons:**

1. **Spring (April to June)**: Spring is a delightful time to visit with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and lush landscapes. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring cities without the summer crowds.

2. **Summer (July to August)**: If you enjoy warm weather and want to experience local festivals and events, summer is the peak tourist season. It's perfect for swimming in Lake Ohrid and enjoying outdoor dining.

3. **Autumn (September to November)**: Autumn offers pleasant weather, especially in September and early October. It's a great time for hiking in the national parks and enjoying the fall foliage.

4. **Winter (December to February)**: If you're a fan of winter sports, visit North Macedonia during this time. The ski resorts in places like Mavrovo and Popova Sapka offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

**Cuisine:**

1. **Tavče Gravče**: This is a traditional Macedonian dish made of baked beans with a rich mixture of spices. It's often served as a side dish or a main course.

2. **Ajvar**: Ajvar is a flavorful pepper-based condiment made from red peppers, garlic, and chili peppers. It's served as a spread or a dip and is a staple in Macedonian cuisine.

3. **Pindjur**: Similar to Ajvar, Pindjur is another popular pepper-based spread. It's often served with bread or as a condiment for grilled meats.

4. **Burek**: A beloved pastry filled with ingredients like cheese, meat, or spinach. It's a delicious and filling snack or breakfast option.

5. **Kebapi**: These are small, grilled sausages typically served with bread and onions. They're a popular street food and can also be found in restaurants.

6. **Sarma**: Cabbage or vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, seasoned with herbs. It's often served during special occasions and celebrations.

7. **Rakija**: This is a strong fruit brandy, often homemade. It's a traditional Macedonian drink and is sometimes flavored with various fruits like plum or grape.

8. **Tavče Gravče**: A dish made of baked beans with a rich mixture of spices, it's often served as a side dish or a main course.

Don't forget to try the local wines, as North Macedonia has a growing wine industry with many excellent options. Enjoy these dishes and drinks to experience the rich flavors of Macedonian cuisine during your visit.

Airlines to visit 

North Macedonia had one major international airport, Skopje International Airport (SKP), and another smaller one, Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport (OHD). Several airlines operated flights to and from North Macedonia. Keep in mind that airline routes and availability can change, so it's advisable to check with the airports or airline websites for the most up-to-date information. Here are some of the airlines that were known to operate to and from North Macedonia:

1. **Wizz Air**: Wizz Air is a Hungarian low-cost airline that has a significant presence at Skopje International Airport. They offered a range of European destinations.

2. **Turkish Airlines**: Turkish Airlines is a major carrier that provides connections from Skopje to its hub in Istanbul, which opens up numerous global destinations.

3. **Aegean Airlines**: Aegean Airlines, Greece's largest carrier, operated flights between Skopje and Athens, providing connections to various Greek islands and other international destinations.

4. **Adria Airways**: Adria Airways, a Slovenian airline (note that Adria Airways ceased operations in 2019, so please check for alternatives).

5. **Pegasus Airlines**: Pegasus Airlines, a Turkish low-cost carrier, offered flights from Skopje to Istanbul and other destinations.

6. **Austrian Airlines**: Austrian Airlines had flights connecting Skopje to Vienna, offering access to a wide range of destinations in Europe and beyond.

7. **Edelweiss Air**: Edelweiss Air, a Swiss leisure airline, operated seasonal flights between Zurich and Ohrid.

8. **Ryanair**: Ryanair, a prominent European low-cost carrier, introduced flights to North Macedonia in recent years, primarily to Skopje.

Please note that the airline industry is subject to changes, and new routes or airlines may have emerged since my last update. Always check with the respective airlines or the airports for the latest flight information and availability.