Self-drive tour - Macédoine: Authentic and Unusual Journey in the Heart of the Balkans

Upon arrival at Skopje airport, pick up your rental car and head towards the capital of North Macedonia.

Begin your visit to Skopje, a city that has completely rebuilt itself after being devastated by an earthquake in 1963. Today, it offers a unique experience, where two distinct cultures and lifestyles blend together, between Macedonians of Albanian origin and Macedonians.

Optional activities:

• Guided tour of Skopje for a historical and cultural immersion

• Bike tour of Skopje to explore the city in an active and original way

After breakfast, head to the Canyon Matka, one of the must-see sites in Macédoine.

Activity options at Canyon Matka:

• Boat excursion to explore the Vrelo caves, ranked among the world's deepest underwater caves

• Kayaking session for an active discovery of the canyon

Return to Skopje and start exploring the Macedonian capital. Ravaged by an earthquake in 1963, the city has managed to rebuild completely, offering a unique experience today. Skopje stands out for the coexistence of two cultures and lifestyles, between Macedonian Albanians and Macedonians.

Stroll through the new city center and discover its iconic sites:

• Tvrdina Kale fortress

• The Kameni Most stone bridge, which divides the city in two

• The old Ottoman bazaar Čaršija, a testament to Skopje's rich historical past

After breakfast, head towards the Mavrovo National Park, a region with stunning landscapes.

Stop in Tetovo to admire the painted mosque Sarena Dzamija, a 15th-century masterpiece. Its richly decorated interior and exterior make it one of the most beautiful mosques in Macédoine.

Continue your journey towards Mavrovo and immerse yourself in its magnificent landscapes, between the Mavrovo Lake and the Radika Canyon. Take a stroll in the surrounding area to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Then head to the Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery (Saint, perched on the heights of the canyon, considered one of the most beautiful monasteries in Macédoine.

Overnight in Bigorski.

Option:

• Horseback riding in Mavrovo National Park

• Explore Mavrovo National Park on horseback for an immersion in the heart of nature.

After breakfast, set off to discover the picturesque village of Janche. Stroll through its streets and admire the traditional houses, built with materials from that era, the result of one resident's initiative to preserve the authenticity of the place.

Continue your journey to Vevtchani, a village nestled at the foot of the Jablanica mountain. Famous for its costume festival, which celebrates the new year according to the old Orthodox calendar, this event, among the oldest in the Balkans, dates back over 1,400 years.

Wander through the village and walk along a wooden boardwalk to discover the Vevtchani water spring, a peaceful natural site.

Then head to Ohrid, considered the cradle of orthodoxy in Macédoine, a city with rich and preserved heritage.

After breakfast, head towards Bitola by crossing the Galicica National Park. Take advantage of this journey to admire spectacular views of Lake Prespa.

Make a stop in this magnificent park, with the opportunity to hike and explore preserved nature.

Before arriving in Bitola, visit the archaeological site of Heraclea Lyncestis, an ancient city of the Kingdom of Macédoine, founded in the 4th century BC. Discover its ancient remains, witnesses to a rich and fascinating past.

Explore Bitola, the second largest city in North Macédoine, known for its Mediterranean character and unique architectural heritage:

• Historic churches and mosques

• Old Ottoman bazaar

• Elegant neoclassical houses

End the day by heading to Lake Prespa (Great Lake Prespa), where you will spend the night in a peaceful and natural setting.

After breakfast, head towards the mountains of southwest North Macedonia to discover Kruševo, a small town perched at 1,350 meters altitude. Its unique charm lies in a perfect harmony between nature, history and traditions. From this highest city in the country, enjoy spectacular views over the surrounding landscapes.

Continue your journey to Prilep to visit the Towers of Marko (Markovi Kuli), remains of a vast 14th-century fortress, perched on the heights and offering an impressive panorama.

Then make your way to the Demir Kapija Baths, an oasis of natural relaxation. Located in southern North Macedonia, these mineral-rich thermal springs flow naturally and are renowned for their therapeutic properties. A perfect moment to unwind in the heart of a peaceful and natural environment.

End your day with a visit to Popova Kula vineyard, nestled on the heights of a hill offering a magnificent panoramic view over the region. Discover Macedonian wine culture and enjoy a moment of local wine tasting, for an authentic and immersive experience.

After breakfast, head towards the tiny village of Omorani, nestled in the heart of the Macedonian countryside. Settle into an 80-year-old stone house, where you will be welcomed by warm hosts. Enjoy the pool and peaceful setting, ideal for a moment of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Optional activities:

• Romantic dinner in an intimate and authentic setting;

• Stroll to the Babuna waterfall for full immersion in nature;

• Natural cosmetics workshop to discover the secrets of artisanal manufacturing.

Experience a unique and authentic moment, between tradition, nature and local hospitality.

After breakfast, head to Stobi, the largest archaeological site in North Macédoine. Explore the ruins of an ancient city, founded in the 4th century BC, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Romans in ancient Macédoine.

Option: Stobi Winery Visit

Along the way, you have the opportunity to stop at Stobi Winery to discover the local wine-growing tradition and taste wines typical of the region.

Then head to the small village of Crvulevo, where you will stay in a charming accommodation, in the heart of nature, for a peaceful and rejuvenating evening.

After breakfast, head to Skopje airport for your return flight.