'I visited one of Europe's least popular holiday destinations - it was stunning'
Some of the most popular spots in Europe are starting to feel far too crowded.
Over the past year locals have been fighting back against over-tourism, with the likes of Venice poised to introduce a tourist tax to whittle down visitor numbers and Manchester levying a charge on people staying in hotels and Airbnbs in the city.
Sometimes heading off to one of the Continent's great spots can leave you feeling like you're stuck like a sweaty sardine in a tin. If you want to have a little more breathing room and like the idea of seeing a major destination in its more authentic state, then North Macedonia may be the place for you.
The small Balkans country may headlines four years ago when a quarter of a century long dispute with Greece over its name was finally resolved, the nation formerly known just as Macedonia adding 'North' to the beginning of its name.
Lake Ohrid in the country is one of the biggest draws (Getty Images)Today it is the third least visited country in Europe after micro-state of Liechtenstein and Moldova, receiving around 1.1 million tourists a year, far fewer than many of the continent’s top destinations. However, it’s an incredibly beautiful country and it’s also extremely good value. So why does it receive so few visitors?
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Given that it is on same peninsula where other far more famous tourist hotspots like Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece are located, its relative lack of punch compared to other holiday spots is perhaps surprising. Especially when all of its intriguing landmarks are considered.
It has a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the charming lakeside town of Ohrid, distinguished for its whitewashed Ottoman-era houses and Romanesque churches dating back to the 9th century or earlier.
The region can also trace its origins back to the reign of Alexander the Great, who ruled over parts of the Balkans that stretches over four modern day countries. A massive commemorative statue of the legendary warrior riding a majestic horse stands in central Skopje, highlighting the North Macedonian people's enthusiasm for the historic warlord.
Less known is the country's association with Mother Teresa, who was actually born there. The beatified nun rose to prominence as a carer for the poor and sick in the slums of Calcutta, India but was ethnically Albanian and was born and raised in North Macedonia.
Given all of these famous associations, it is perhaps surprising that North Macedonia is not better visited. The fact it borders some of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after spots while not enjoying direct access to the sea itself, as well as limited flight options, may be a possible explanation.
The Express's Esther Marshall recently visited the country, including the charming Ohrid which sits on the nation's largest lake of the same name. "Its old town is a charming spot packed with picturesque churches. I enjoyed a huge lakeside meal with wine for just £14," Esther wrote.
"A scoop of gelato in the pretty Old Town cost me just 90p while a cappuccino in a posh lakeside cafe came in at £1.55. Luckily for Britons, TUI has just launched package deals to Ohrid. A seven day trip in July at a luxury hotel with a pool costs just £676 per person. If you’d prefer to go self-catering, I spent just £20 a night at an Airbnb with incredible balcony views."
Esther also made her way to North Macedonia’s capital city, Skopje, which she found to be "a bit of an odd place." Back in the 1960s the city was hit by a disastrous earthquake which left around 80% of the city destroyed. The city’s subsequent rebuilding project was a little controversial.
"The first thing you’ll notice in Skopje is the number of giant statues. In 2014, the city embarked on a redevelopment project and constructed more than 100 statues. From warriors to pirate ships and lions, there’s barely a street without a monument. While the huge statues might not be to everyone’s taste, they’re certainly something to see," Esther continued.
"I wouldn’t recommend spending more than a couple of days in Skopje but it’s definitely worth visiting the capital if only to explore the nearby Matka Canyon."
Pretty European country has few tourists, amazing lakes and flights from £50
In terms of places to visit in the capital, the birth place of Mother Teresa is well worth stopping by at. The eclectic church was built in 2009 but was constructed on the site of an older church, where Mother Teresa was baptised the day after her birth.
If you are into slightly heavy history, then the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle is one for you. This sombre museum is focused on the country’s history of occupation and fight for independence, starting with the rebellion of Macedonian Christians against Ottoman rulers in the 16th century and concluding with the country’s declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991.
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