Cycling in North Macedonia and Greek Macedonia: Ohrid to Meteora

by The Natural Adventure Company
Region
Mainland, Peloponnese and Saronic Gulf
Duration
13 days
Guided Status
Self-Guided
Difficulty
Moderate
D-Score™
D3 - Advanced

Overview

Located at the heart of the Balkans, the ancient region of Macedonia is full of breathtaking sceneries and historical sites. The first part of the trip starts from the town of Ohrid, passing by the 700-year old monastery of Sveti Naum, across the Galichitza Mountain to Lake Prespa and the historic city of Bitola. Entering Greece, you cycle through the wine region and lake district of Agios Panteleimon, the town of Kastoria, the valley of the Pinios river and finally to the giant pinnacles of Meteora topped with ancient monasteries. This itinerary will take you through the mountains, valleys and lakes of North Macedonia and Greece on scenic secondary roads with limited traffic. Some of the daily rides are rather challenging, however, each climb is quite rewarding as it will reveal you a magnificent view of the surrounding landscapes. In case you would like to enrich your experience, you might also consider adding a guide (available upon request) who will give you valuable insights on this complex region and take care of your bikes in case of need.

Daily Ride Schedule

Day 1: Arrival

Arrival

Day 2: Explore Ohrid

Explore Ohrid

Day 3: Ohrid – Sveti Naum

45 km 360 m

D1

Ohrid – Sveti Naum

Day 4: Sveti Naum – Otesevo

38 km 890 m

D1

Sveti Naum – Otesevo

Day 5: Otesevo – Bitola

50 km 480 m

D1

Otesevo – Bitola

Day 6: Bitola – Florina

45 km 100 m

D1

Bitola – Florina

Day 7: Florina – Agios Panteleimon

65 km 450 m

D1

Florina – Agios Panteleimon

Day 8: Agios Panteleimon – Kastoria

80 km 820 m

D2

Agios Panteleimon – Kastoria

Day 9: Rest day or short bike ride around the lake

35 km 0 m

D1

Rest day or short bike ride around the lake

Day 10: Kastoria – Grevena

64 km 635 m

D1

Kastoria – Grevena

Day 11: Grevena – Kastraki

58 km 475 m

D1

Grevena – Kastraki

Day 12: Meteora

58 km 475 m

D1

Meteora

Day 13: Departure

Departure

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included

Accommodation arrangements
Bike rental

About the Mainland, Peloponnese and Saronic Gulf

Read full regional guide