Just a three-hour flight from the United Kingdom lies a breathtaking, lesser-known European destination dominated by dramatic peaks and rich history. North Macedonia, a landlocked nation north of Greece, is officially one of the world's most mountainous countries, offering an escape far from the well-trodden tourist trail.
A Landscape Defined by Peaks
Over 85 per cent of North Macedonia's territory is covered by mountains, making it the seventh most mountainous nation globally. The highest peak, Mount Korab, reaches an impressive 9,030 feet (2,752 metres) on the border with Albania. This rugged topography shapes everyday life, as local resident Frosina Pandurska-Dramikjanin explained to CNN, noting that mountains surround her no matter which direction she drives.
The country, which gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 and settled its name dispute with Greece in 2019, has a total population of only around 2 million people—fewer than the city of Birmingham. This contributes to its feeling of untouched authenticity.
Cultural Riches and Natural Wonders
One of the nation's crown jewels is Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site shared with Albania. The lake itself was inscribed in 1979, with the surrounding region added a year later. The town of Ohrid is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe and is home to the oldest Slavic monastery, St Pantelejmon. The pristine lake supports around 200 unique plant and animal species and is a hub for activities from diving to cliff jumping.
For hikers, the Šar Mountain range along the northwestern border provides endless trails. In mountain villages, the ancient tradition of transhumance—seasonally moving sheep between valleys and high pastures—is still practised today.
An Underrated Destination with Huge Potential
The tourism industry believes North Macedonia has significant untapped potential. Aleksandar Bogoevski, owner of Sustainable Adventure Travels, pointed out that while about one million passengers transit through the country in summer, many do not stop to explore its depths. The capital, Skopje, is home to roughly 526,000 people and is known for its striking, sometimes controversial, monumental architecture along the Vardar River.
Travellers can also indulge in a delicious fusion cuisine that blends Balkan, Mediterranean, and Turkish influences, with signature dishes like Tave grave (baked beans in a clay pot). Popular travel vlogger Drew Binsky praised the country's relaxed vibe, calling Lake Ohrid the "coolest lake in Europe" and highly recommending the nation for a road trip.
With direct flights from the UK to Skopje taking just three to three-and-a-half hours, this mountainous haven offers a compelling and accessible alternative for British travellers seeking adventure, culture, and stunning natural beauty off the beaten path.
