Hiking Big Lake to Prespa Lake

Overview

Explore the most protected zone of Pelister National Park from Golemo Ezero glacial lake (2.218m) to Brajcino village by Prespa Lake (1.000m). Brajcino is the Macedonian synonym of – alternative country-side tourism where the local population have come together to offer the best of Macedonian traditional hospitality, cuisine thus creating unique Balkan experience.

Highlights

This moderate hike of 17km and 1200mD- explores the most protected zone of Pelister National Park. It begins at Golemo Ezero glacial lake and the mountain hut (called “Dimitar Ilievski – Murato” bearing the name of first Macedonian who climbed Everest in 1989) (2218m asl) and it will take you around 5 hours to reach village of Brajcino. This area is full with wildlife and the first half-or-so of the route is through shrubs and open-spaces allowing you to enjoy the awesome views at the other prominent peaks and ridges of Mount Baba and beyond.

The route follows WWI military roads and passes by locales such as “Orlovi bari”, several stone rivers – moraines, and few abandoned sheepfolds. Also, all the way down there are scattered ruins of military posts and objects – silent reminders of the horrors that were in this part of the frontline. Give a minute of silence out of respect for the fallen heroes a century ago.

Gradually, the path follows Brajcinska creek serpentines into forested area of beech-wood and oak trees. It passes by an old sawmill and a small church St.Nikola. The village of Brajcino (1000m asl) is situated in the National park “Pelister” and it is located on 15 min drive from Prespa Lake. It is abundant with spring water and lush deciduous forests. Welcome to the Macedonian symbol of alternative countryside tourism.

Difficulty Grading

EASY / MODERATE

up to 18km / 11mi/ 3-6 hours

Terrain may be rugged, with some hills, but not too strenuous.

Suitable for fit and active people, with some hiking experience

Map

When To Go

Possible	15 May – 31 May and 01 October to 15 November
Recommended	01 June – 30 September
Not available	16 November – 14 May

Price

Available on request

INCLUDED IN PRICE: 

• Mobile app with maps and route descriptions
• Detailed hiking route descriptions and maps
• Local safety information and contacts
• Stand-by support
• Organization and logistic by Macedonia Travel

NOT INCLUDED IN PRICE: 

• Meals
• Personal medical and travel insurance (mandatory)
• Any extra expenses not mentioned under „included in price“

OPTIONS & SUPPLEMENTS:

• Private arrival / departure transfers available on request
• Extra night before or after the tour
  - In mountain hut “Golemo Ezero” by the lake: from 20 €/ dorm accommodation
  - In village Brajchino in guesthouse: from 18 €/ per person sharing double room. Single supplement: 10 €
  - In village Ljubojno in a guesthouse (private rooms): from 18 €/ per person sharing double room. Single supplement: 10 €.
• Rent of Global Positioning System (GPS) console: 45 €

Arrival & Departure

ARRIVAL TO BIG LAKE:

By 4x4 to the Big Lake

Available on request

On foot

This route can be extension of the following routes:
- Hike to Peak Pelister and Peak Pelister to the Big Lake (challenging)
- Hike to the Big Lake from Nizepole village (easy / moderate) 

DEPARTURE FROM BRAJCHINO VILLAGE TO SKOPJE:

By bus and car transfer

As there is no regular bus service to the villages on this side of Baba Mountain, we can arrange transfer by car from Brajchino to Resen Bus Station (15 €) where you can take intercity bus from Resen to Skopje Bus Station.

Why Travel With Us?