Mavrovo National Park

Mavrovo National Park is hands down one of the most beautiful natural areas in North Macedonia. Located in the northwestern part of the country, this massive park covers around 730 square kilometers of stunning landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons.

The park centers around Lake Mavrovo, which has an interesting story - part of a village was submerged when the lake was created by damming in the 1950s. When water levels drop, you can still see the half-submerged Church of St. Nicholas emerging from the water, creating an eerie but beautiful sight. In winter, the area transforms into Macedonia's largest ski resort with slopes for all skill levels.

Beyond the lake, Mavrovo offers dense forests, alpine meadows, and the impressive Korab Mountain, which happens to be North Macedonia's highest peak at 2,764 meters. The park is home to rare wildlife including bears, wolves, and the critically endangered Balkan lynx - there are only about 35 left in the wild!

The villages within and around the park showcase traditional Macedonian architecture and culture. Local residents continue age-old traditions, with many families making their own cheeses and rakija (fruit brandy). The area is particularly known for its distinctive cuisine that blends Balkan and Mediterranean influences, featuring dishes slow-cooked in earthenware pots.