Macedonia is an ancient country with a very modern identity crisis: its official name is
the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in order to distinguish itself from the better known region of Macedonia in
Greece. A number of firebrand ethnic groups make up the population, an unstable dynamic which erupted into civil war in 1991. Today Macedonia is the most peaceful republic to emerge from the former
Yugoslavia, and visitors here experience one of the safest countries in
Europe.
Macedonia is a paradise for hikers, bikers, skiers and climbers, as over 80 percent of the land is mountainous
and forested. Its abundant lakes and unpolluted rivers also attract fishermen, while Roman ruins and religious art invite culture buffs looking to see a different, fresher face to ancient Europe.
The capital is
Skopje, a really enjoyable microcosm of Macedonia's many charms. There are plenty of historical relics, medieval fortresses and a bustling Ottoman-style bazaar. After dark, Skopje's celebrated nightlife comes into its own with great live music and clubs.
Macedonia's prime attraction is Lake Ohrid, on the south-east border with
Albania. This is Europe's deepest lake and one of the oldest in the world. Between mid-July and late August the Ohrid Summer Festival takes place, and this is the best time to experience Macedonian music, food and people in all their glory.
Mavrovo, 40 miles (60km) east of Skopje, is an excellent though hugely underrated ski resort in a wonderfully scenic mountain location. Bitoli, the country's second largest city, is known for its café culture and Ottoman heritage.
Transport is decent, with fairly well maintained roads plied by public buses, and reasonably good value car hire available. The trains are clean, cheap and slow - which is a good thing as the scenery en route destinations can be magnificent.
For now Macedonia is an off-beat travel destination, but with its unbeatable mix wilderness, culture, and famously friendly people, this destination is primed to become the next big thing on the European visitor's map.
