CAPITAL SKOPJE - POPULATION 2.3 MILLION - AREA 25,333 SQ KM -OFFICIAL LANGUAGE MACEDONIAN
Macedonia may have a new name by the time you read this. The country, vying for EU-inclusion, is being blocked by Greece, who insists the word 'Macedonia' belongs to them. But whatever this chunk of ex-Yugoslavia is called, it's a fascinating addition to the travel map. Alexander the Great's homeland is dotted with exquisite Byzantine monasteries and frescoed churches (explore those around lovely Lake Orhid), a new set of archaeological projects is unearthing unknown treasures – including the Roman city of Stobi – and the raucous Strumitsa Carnival just before Lent is growing into one of the best street shindigs in Europe.
OHRID
There's always a race for the next big thing in Europe, and budget-friendly Macedonia is rising in popularity for its mountainous setting of vineyards, lakes and Byzantine churches; it's also a mainstay stop-off on Balkan trips. Beyond the lively capital Skopje, the spiritual heart is three road hours' west at Ohrid, a lovely town with a medieval castle looking over church-lined hilly streets and the lush coastline of Lake Ohrid. Private rooms are easy to find for 10 euro or less, while opulent historic villas turned into B&Bs run for under 50 (US$71.50). Bus services run to sites along the lake coast, including Galicica National Park with hiking, boating and swimming spots. |
