Ohrid - St. Jovan Bigorski - Mavrovo National Park - Galichnik - Lazaropole - Ohrid

This full-day highland escape offers a scenic blend of natural landscapes, quiet mountain villages, and rich cultural heritage. The tour begins in Ohrid with a guided overview of the old town, where you’ll explore the city’s most important landmarks, from the Filevi Pearl Workshop and Robevi House to the Church of St. Sophia and the cliffside Church of St. John at Kaneo. After this cultural introduction, the road leads north through the Drim valley, following the river as it winds toward the mountains.

The first major stop is the Monastery of St. Jovan Bigorski, nestled in the hills above the Radika River. Known for its detailed wood-carved iconostasis and peaceful chanting, this monastery remains a spiritual center for the region. After the visit, the tour continues along the winding ski road into Mavrovo National Park, a protected area filled with alpine meadows, pine forests, and wide-open views. Depending on the season, the hills may be dotted with grazing sheep, snow patches, or wildflowers.

Next, you’ll visit Galichnik, a village famed for its stone-roofed houses and traditional cheese production. The narrow lanes and high-altitude setting give it a timeless feel, especially when paired with stories of its iconic weddings and mountain life. A short drive further leads to Lazaropole, one of the highest villages in North Macedonia, where you'll take a gentle walk through pine woods and quiet alleys lined with pastel-colored houses.

Lunch is served picnic-style in a scenic mountain spot, featuring fresh bread, local cheese, smoked meats, and seasonal fruits, simple, hearty flavors that match the surroundings. The return to Ohrid in the late afternoon winds back through the highlands, completing a day of altitude, fresh air, and cultural depth.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking to trade city crowds for mountain trails and village stillness.