Mavrovo National Park - Mountain Paradise

Macedonia's Largest National Park

Mavrovo National Park, established in 1949, is the largest and oldest national park in North Macedonia, covering an area of 780 square kilometers. Located in the western part of the country, this mountainous paradise offers a perfect blend of untouched nature, outdoor adventures, and cultural heritage.

Mavrovo Lake - An Artificial Wonder

At the heart of the park lies Mavrovo Lake, an artificial reservoir created in 1953. The lake stretches over 13.7 square kilometers and is famous for the partially submerged church of St. Nicholas, which emerges from the waters when the lake level drops. This iconic sight has become one of Macedonia's most photographed landmarks.

Flora and Fauna

The park is home to diverse ecosystems ranging from deciduous forests to alpine meadows:

• Wildlife: Brown bears, wolves, lynx, wild boars, deer, and over 140 bird species
• Flora: Ancient beech and pine forests, endemic plant species, and colorful alpine flowers
• Peaks: Golem Korab (2,764m) - Macedonia's highest peak, and Bistra massif
• Rivers: Crystal-clear mountain streams and the Radika River valley

Year-Round Destination

Winter Activities

Mavrovo transforms into a winter wonderland from December to March:

• Skiing and snowboarding at Mavrovo Ski Center with 5 ski runs
• Cross-country skiing through pristine forests
• Snowshoeing and winter hiking
• Ice fishing on the frozen parts of Mavrovo Lake

Summer Activities

The warmer months offer endless outdoor opportunities:

• Hiking trails to Golem Korab and other peaks
• Swimming and water sports in Mavrovo Lake
• Mountain biking through scenic forest trails
• Fishing for trout in mountain streams
• Camping under the stars in designated areas

Traditional Villages

The park is dotted with authentic Macedonian villages where traditional life continues unchanged:

• Galičnik: Famous for its traditional wedding ceremony held every July
• Janche: Known for excellent local cuisine and hospitality
• Rostovo: A picturesque village with stone houses and friendly locals
• Trebishte: Gateway to hiking trails and mountain adventures

Cultural Heritage

Beyond natural beauty, Mavrovo preserves important cultural sites including medieval monasteries, traditional architecture, and customs that have been passed down through generations. The region is also famous for its delicious local specialties like Mavrovo cheese and traditional lamb dishes.