Cycling day trip from Ohrid to Grnčari

Set off from the stunning lakeside city of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its brilliant blue lake, old town charm, and ancient churches. Your route to Grnčari covers just under 59 km and is perfect if you’re up for a bit of a challenge—expect over 1,500 meters of climbing as you pedal through rolling hills and scenic Macedonian countryside.

The ride takes you along mostly quiet roads, with stretches of asphalt interspersed with sections where the surface is a bit of a mystery—so be ready for some adventure! There are a few unpaved bits, but nothing a sturdy bike can’t handle. The high point at over 1,600 meters offers fantastic views worthy of a good photo stop.

You’ll finish in Grnčari, a peaceful rural village south-east of Ohrid, where you can unwind after your ride. Make sure to pack some snacks and plenty of water—there are fewer facilities once you’re out in the hills, but the sweeping landscapes more than make up for it!