Why to Visit Lesser-Known Lake Ohrid

So last weekend we got up super early in the morning to head to the airport, and of course that means… I’m back with a new post! I had been yearning for my next trip for so long so now it’s over I’m glad that our next one is only 3 weeks away. Side note, Macedonia changed its name to North Macedonia in between booking and going!

When people asked where I was heading to, the most common response was “???”. This blog post aims to give some inspiration for a trip to this gorgeous spot in the Balkans! I’ll be putting up another post shortly with all of our experiences and logistics for visiting so keep an eye out for that one.

Ohrid

The namesake of this beautiful lake! Ohrid is framed by hills/mountains, which means you have plenty of opportunities for those famous lake views. Ohrid is also famous for having 365 churches (one for every day of the year…) and they are super cool buildings. Read on for more on the main sights.

Tsar Samuel’s Fortress

At the top of hill! I wasn’t actually expecting anything more than a great view but this fortress (what remains of it) was really cool and definitely worth a visit.

Plaoshnik

We didn’t find the time to go inside but Plaoshnik is an archaeological site and monastery. You can’t really see the building up close so if you have a chance to go definitely do! From a distance (and from pictures I’ve seen), the architecture is very striking.

Plaoshnik is the structure on the right!

St Jovan Kaneo

The gem of Ohrid! This is the most photographed spot, and I can see why… This is where I really fell in love. From here I also thought you got the best perspective of how alluring the water is.

From the church, take the steps down to Kaneo, the old fishing village.

St. Sophia, St. Holy Mother of God and all of the churches!

Okay so like I said, there are 365 churches. I wouldn’t recommend trying to visit all of them but these are two of the most visited (and probably two of the biggest).

Amphitheatre

Not something that would typically excite me, but since it’s in the main area (and in between our accommodation and other sites), we came through here a few times. And I’m glad we did! Who doesn’t love a free Roman ruin?

Lake Front

Get up close to this beautifully clear water. If it’s warm enough then go one step further and get in it! Above on the left was our lovely lunch view and on the right is Kaneo as previously mentioned.

St. Naum

Most people will tell you to spend one of your days in St. Naum. The boat ride there takes 1 hour 20, costs 10 euros return and leaves twice daily. Once in St. Naum, visit the monastery and springs. You can’t get lost, it’s tiny!

I wasn't planning on Insta'ing any of the above but they look quite fetching in a row like that!

So the above, cheap food + wine, amazing views, the clearest bluest water are just a few reasons I would 100% recommend Ohrid as a destination. You can see a lot in a long weekend (as we did) or stay for longer to incorporate more lake-side chilling.

And for your last dose of inspiration... I'm still in the process of uploading but I will update as I continue to post to Instagram!