'Most beautiful place on Earth' that you've probably never heard of
For an enchanting holiday brimming with culture and breathtaking vistas, North Macedonia should be a priority on your travel agenda.
This little-known gem, tucked in the heart of the Balkans, may be small in size, yet frequently, the best things come in neat packages, a saying that certainly rings true for this quaint region.
Once part of Yugoslavia, its claim to fame is Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's most ancient and profound lakes, nestled on the hilly frontier shared with Albania.
Labelled the "most beautiful place on Earth" by a captivated Tripadvisor user, Lake Ohrid is not just a feast for the eyes but also a haven for over 200 unique species, thriving within its crystal clear depths of 288 metres.
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Both the lake and its adjacent town have earned their spot as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Despite this prestigious recognition, the area remains tranquil even during peak tourist season, assuring a serene getaway.
However, this doesn't mean there's a lack of activities: kayaking and paddleboarding await the more spirited visitors, while culture enthusiasts can revel in the plentiful historical offerings.
Notably, the stunning Church of St John stands proudly above the shore, providing overwhelming panoramas across the lake's vast waters.
The church, believed to have been built before 1447, is dedicated to John of Patmos, who some believe to be the same as John the Baptist.
This is just one of 360 churches in Ohrid, so there are plenty more to discover if this doesn't satisfy your curiosity, reports the Mirror.
Another must-see is the eerily named Bay of Bones. This museum, located on the lake's edge, is a reconstruction of a prehistoric settlement where inhabitants lived above the water in stilted homes.
The remnants of the settlement were found here and gradually unearthed by an underwater team from 1997 to 2005. The museum is a detailed reimagining of how archaeologists believe the settlement would have looked between 1200 and 600 BC.
The name derives from the numerous animal remains found at the site. Ohrid is easily navigable on foot, so you won't need to splash out on transport.
After a day spent exploring Ohrid's hiking trails and churches, why not relax at one of the many local restaurants and sample North Macedonian specialities like burek - a thin, flaky pastry filled with various savoury ingredients.
Accommodation in the town is also affordable, with hotels available from around £30 per night at the lower end of the price range.