Why Visiting Ohrid, Macedonia, Should Be on Your Bucket List
Home to narrow, cobblestoned streets and medieval-esque architecture, a visit to Ohrid may seem like a trip back in time. Yet to be hit by huge waves of tourism, Ohrid is a vacationer’s paradise, with glimmering beaches, spectacular views, and a wealth of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine – all available on a budget.
Go for the history
Nicknamed the ‘Jerusalem of the Balkans’, Ohrid is one of the oldest settlements in Europe, and was once considered to be the epicentre of religion and Slavic culture. Its history is evident in every building that lines the city’s old town. However, it is Lake Ohrid that makes the city a unique historical artefact. At three million years old, it stands as one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, and gives Ohrid the prestige of being named as both a cultural and natural UNESCO World Heritage site.
It’s all about location, location, location
Nestled between the mountains of Macedonia, three hours outside the capital city of Skopje, Ohrid is the perfect spot for your next adventure. Surrounded by natural landscapes that are the stuff of your Instagram dreams, Ohrid is removed from the bustle of major cities, yet easily accessible by bus or plane – the city even has its own international airport. For those looking to travel within the area, the Greek border is less than two hours away.
See unbelievable natural landscapes
What Ohrid lacks in coastline, it makes up for in character and natural beauty. Its lake offers pockets of beachy areas that reveal views of the surrounding mountains and hills. Along the shoreline, carefully reconstructed stilted villages give the area an Italian vibe, while waterside resorts make it the perfect place to relax in the sun. For those tired of the beach, hikes that lead around the shoreline and into the mountains are especially tempting. The more vigorous hiking and cycling trails will reward their conquerors with a beautiful overhead view of the lake.
Go for the views, stay for the food
Macedonian cuisine is reason enough to come to the city. It is unlikely that you’ll make the trip to Ohrid without hearing about Dr. Falafel, which serves up some of the best falafel sandwiches in the region, with fresh hummus and pickled vegetables. Macedonian food has been influenced by a variety of cultures, but largely focuses on Mediterranean and Turkish flavours, with a hint of Italian zest. Typical dishes include flaky kifli pastries, rich vegetable and meat stew known as turli tava, and tavče-gravče, a delicious bean dish. Local foods are made from scratch, focusing on quality and freshness, while the lake ensures that there is never a shortage of fresh seafood.
This is text from www.theculturetrip.com/ and you can find there more for Ohrid.