Hidden Cave Churches, Villages & Cuisine

Southwestern Region, Macedonia



An opportunity to experience ancient cave monasteries, authentic rural life, refreshing natural springs, and breathtaking nature, all ending with the taste of delicious, locally made traditional food.

Highlights

  • Ancient 13th century cave churches carved into the cliffs beside Lake Ohrid.
  • Vevcani Springs, a stunning natural wonder flowing from Mount Jablanica.
  • Charming village life, featuring traditional architecture and authenticity.
  • Taste of authentic and traditional Macedonian cuisine.

Description

Starting from Port of Ohrid we drive towards the northern part of Ohrid Lake, mountain Jablanica and two cave monasteries.

The first monastery we visit is Kalishta complex monastery only 4km from city of Struga. Built in the cave openings on the lake side, St. Mary cave monastery is one of the well preserved cave monasteries found on the lake side dating from late 13th and beginning of 14th centuries.

Tour continues to the border with Albania to a small fisherman village, v. Radozda. On the hill above the village, built high in the rocks, you will find the 13th-century cave church of St. Archangel Michael.

After a 20-minute ride towards Mount Jablanica, we arrive at the traditional village of Vevcani, where you’ll enjoy the village scenery and Vevcani Springs above the village.

After a short walk, an organised traditional meal will be served in an ethno-house.

Includes

  • Transportation
  • Professional licensed tour guide who will guide you through this beautiful scenery
  • Lunch in an ethno-restaurant where you will have a chance to try homemade local food
  • Entry tickets to two places:
    • St. Mary cave church in Kalishta
    • Vevchani springs

Excludes

Drinks in the Etno-Restaurant are paid separately by the customer

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour visits ancient 13th-century cave churches carved into cliffs near Lake Ohrid, including the Kalishta monastery complex and St. Mary cave monastery.
The tour begins at the Port of Ohrid by Lake Ohrid in Macedonia.
You reach the cave churches by driving towards the northern part of Ohrid Lake and Mount Jablanica, with short walks to the cliffside monasteries.
The tour includes a visit to Vevcani Springs, a natural water source flowing from Mount Jablanica.
Yes, the tour features visits to charming villages with traditional architecture and authentic local culture.
You will taste authentic and traditional Macedonian cuisine prepared according to local recipes.
The tour involves some walking to cave monasteries but is generally suitable for most ages; checking specific accessibility details beforehand is recommended.
The tour can be enjoyed year-round, but spring through early autumn offers milder weather and easier access; check local conditions before booking.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for walking around the cave sites and villages.
Please check the official website or local tourism sources for the current opening hours of the monasteries.

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