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Mavrovo: A Macedonian Mountain Paradise

Explore Mavrovo: North Macedonia's premier destination for national park adventures, skiing, cultural heritage, and stunning lake views.

Mavrovo is a region and village in North Macedonia, known for its stunning national park, Mavrovo Lake, and the Zare Lazarevski ski resort. The area offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation.

A brief summary to Mavrovo

  • Mavrovo, MK

Local tips

  • Visit the submerged Church of St. Nicholas when the water level is low to see the ruins.
  • Hike to Mount Korab, North Macedonia's highest peak, for panoramic views.
  • Explore the Monastery of St. Jovan Bigorski, a significant cultural and spiritual site.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine in the village of Janche.
  • Visit Mavrovo in late spring or early summer for mild weather and lush scenery.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Skopje, take a bus from the main bus station to Mavrovi Anovi. Buses run several times a day, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours. From Mavrovi Anovi, you can take a taxi or local minivan to reach the Zare Lazarevski ski resort or other destinations in the Mavrovo region. Bus tickets cost around 8 EUR. A taxi from Mavrovi Anovi to the ski center will cost approximately 8 EUR.

  • Car

    From Skopje, drive to Mavrovo via the E65 highway. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, covering a distance of around 100 km. Once you exit the E-65, the road leads through the Mavrovo National Park. Follow the signs to Mavrovo village or the Zare Lazarevski ski resort. Car rentals are available at Skopje International Airport. Parking is available near the ski resort and other tourist attractions. Expect to pay around 50 MKD per hour for parking.

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Discover more about Mavrovo

Mavrovo, nestled in the northwestern part of North Macedonia, is a captivating region renowned for its diverse landscapes and rich history. The name 'Mavrovo' means 'Black Field,' a moniker earned after a significant battle in the area's past. The region is home to the expansive Mavrovo National Park, the largest of North Macedonia's four national parks, encompassing an area of approximately 780 square kilometers. The park's terrain is remarkably varied, featuring towering mountain peaks, deep canyons, lush meadows, and dense forests. Mount Korab, the highest peak in North Macedonia (2,764 meters), dominates the skyline, attracting hikers and climbers. The Radika River carves its way through picturesque gorges, while Mavrovo Lake, an artificial reservoir created in 1947, adds to the scenic beauty. Mavrovo National Park boasts a rich biodiversity, supporting over 140 species of birds and 45 species of rare animals, including bears, wolves, deer, and the endangered Balkan lynx. The park also shelters over 1,000 plant species. The region offers a variety of activities throughout the year. In winter, the Zare Lazarevski ski resort attracts skiers and snowboarders. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing. Cultural attractions include the submerged Church of St. Nicholas in Mavrovo Lake and the Monastery of St. Jovan Bigorski. Despite its natural beauty, Mavrovo faces environmental challenges, including proposed hydropower projects that threaten the park's biodiversity. Efforts are underway to balance development with the preservation of this unique and valuable ecosystem.

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