Exploring the mountain villages surrounding Ohrid, North Macedonia offers a captivating outdoor adventure. Hikers will traverse picturesque landscapes and interact with welcoming locals. After the moderately challenging trek, a delicious BBQ lunch featuring grilled meats and vegetarian options awaits in the village of Pestani. The day continues with a relaxing boat trip to a nearby beach, where visitors can swim and soak up the sun. This experience blends nature, culture, and culinary delights – an enticing combination for the discerning traveler.
Key Points
- Guided hiking tour through picturesque mountain villages surrounding Ohrid, North Macedonia, with stunning landscapes and engagement with friendly locals.
- Includes a BBQ lunch featuring meats, fries, salads, and more after the hike, along with a relaxing boat trip to a nearby beach for swimming and sunbathing.
- Pickup provided from accommodations or nearby locations in Ohrid, Pestani, and surrounding areas, with a 9 AM start time and up to 25 travelers.
- Moderate hiking terrain suitable for most fitness levels, with an expert mountain guide providing insights into local culture and history.
- Availability of infant seats, service animals allowed, and recommendations for appropriate attire and items to bring, such as swimwear and sunscreen.
Overview of the Experience
This guided hiking tour offers travelers a chance to explore the picturesque mountain villages surrounding Ohrid, North Macedonia.
You’ll trek through serene landscapes, passing by charming homes and engaging with friendly locals.
After the hike, you’ll enjoy a delightful BBQ lunch with meats, fries, salads, and more.
The day concludes with a relaxing boat trip to a nearby beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and take in the stunning views.
With round-trip transportation, an expert mountain guide, and all fees included, this experience provides a well-rounded introduction to North Macedonia’s natural and cultural gems.
Looking for more options in North Macedonia? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Pickup and Arrival Information
Guests are picked up from their accommodation or a nearby location in Ohrid, Pestani, and surrounding areas.
Guests are picked up from their accommodation or a nearby location in Ohrid, Pestani, and surrounding areas.
They’re instructed to wait 10 minutes before the pickup time outside on the main road. Valid pickup time will be provided via WhatsApp within 24 hours.
There are 12 designated pickup points around Ohrid and Pestani, within walking distance from most accommodations. Inex Olgica guests have a special pickup.
The tour starts at 9 AM and can accommodate up to 25 travelers. It’s not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available, and service animals are allowed.
Hiking in Mountain Villages
After being picked up from their accommodations, guests embark on a scenic drive through the countryside, eventually arriving at the trailhead in the mountain villages.
Led by an experienced guide, the hike takes them through picturesque mountain landscapes, winding through traditional villages and offering breathtaking views.
The terrain is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, guests learn about the local culture and history from the knowledgeable guide.
The hike provides an immersive experience in North Macedonia’s natural beauty and rural mountain communities.
Lunch and Beach Afternoon
After the hike, guests enjoy a well-deserved BBQ lunch in the village of Pestani. The menu features an assortment of grilled meats, crispy fries, fresh salads, and homemade bread with spreads. In case of inclement weather, the lunch is served in a cozy local restaurant.
| Lunch Menu | |
|—|—|
| Meats | Chicken, Pork, Lamb |
| Sides | Fries, Salads, Bread, Spreads |
| Drinks | Water, Juices, Tea |
| Dessert | Seasonal Fruit |
| Dietary | Vegetarian, Gluten-free |
Following the hearty meal, guests board a boat for a relaxing cruise to a nearby beach, where they can swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind before the return journey.
Accessibility and Recommendations
The hike isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
Infant seats are available for those traveling with small children. Participants should wear closed, comfortable shoes suitable for mountain walks.
Bringing a swimsuit and towel is recommended if you plan to swim during the beach portion of the tour. Sunscreen and ample drinking water are also advised.
In case of inclement weather, the provided lunch of barbecue meats, fries, salads, bread, and spreads will be served at a restaurant in Pestani instead of outdoors.
Cancellation and Reviews
You can cancel your reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time) for a full refund.
The tour has received excellent reviews, with a 5.0 rating confirming high satisfaction.
Some of the highlights mentioned by previous guests include:
-
Breathtaking views of the mountain villages
-
Delicious BBQ lunch with a variety of meats, fries, salads, and freshly baked bread
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Relaxing boat trip to the beach
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Knowledgeable and friendly mountain guide
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Convenient pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.
Getting the Most Out of Your Tour
How can travelers make the most of this Hike in Mountain Villages tour?
Arrive promptly at the designated pickup point.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for hiking.
Bring a day pack with water, snacks, and sun protection.
Engage with the local guide to learn about the mountain villages and culture.
Be prepared to hike moderate trails.
Embrace the scenic beauty and take plenty of photos.
Enjoy the authentic BBQ lunch and beach time.
Stay hydrated and pace yourself throughout the day.
With preparation and an open mindset, travelers can fully enjoy this memorable experience.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks. The tour package includes lunch (BBQ: meats, fries, salads, bread, spreads) and drinks. Bringing your own is not permitted, as it’s not part of the provided experience.
Is the Hike Suitable for Children?
The hike is suitable for children, as the tour includes infant seats and allows service animals. However, it’s not wheelchair accessible, so children with mobility challenges may have difficulty. Advance planning is recommended to ensure the hike meets each child’s needs.
What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?
The weather is generally good, with mild temperatures. However, in case of bad weather, the lunch portion will be held in a restaurant in Pestani instead of outdoors. Travelers should bring appropriate clothing and sun protection.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
While the tour’s standard duration is provided, customers can’t extend it. The schedule is fixed to ensure a seamless experience. Extending the tour would require booking a separate activity or coordinating with the tour operator.
Are There Any Discount Options Available?
Yes, the tour offers a child and senior discount. Plus, group discounts may be available for larger bookings. Interested travelers should inquire about any ongoing promotions or discount options when booking the experience.
Final Words
This guided hike through scenic mountain villages near Ohrid offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll enjoy a moderate trek, delicious BBQ lunch, and a relaxing boat trip to a nearby beach. It’s a perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights, making it an excellent choice for an adventure-filled day in North Macedonia.
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