Ohrid, the pearl of Macedonia

If you do not have access to the sea, then you can invest the biggest lake of your country with the features of the seaside. One of the most incredible lakes of the world lies in the Republic of Macedonia. The lake is considered to be the oldest lake ( 3 million years old) of Europe and it is believed to be one of the deepest.

The lake is home to more than 1200 species ( 200 seem to be found only here), being, this way the most biodiverse water on earth when measured by surface area. In fact ,one of its name is the Balkan Galapagos.

Here it is found the endemic pink-fleshed Ohrod trout as well as a fish called plasica, whose scales are turned into pearls through a technique which is so well-kept that only 2 local families are familiar with. So, do not forget to buy some jewels that have Ohrid pearls.

 

However, Ohrid is not only famous for its lake but also for the city itself. It seems that this settlement was first mentioned in the Greek documents in 353 BC, as the city of light. In 879 was renamed Ohrid ,which means in the cliff. Because, the city which was included  in  the Unesco heritage in 1980 is nestled between mountains that are up to 2100 metres.

I would describe Ohrid as a seductive place because its charm  can be perceived easily. The old town with its cobbled streets and traditional houses with red-tiled roofs is splendid.

Samoil s  fortress,  metaphorically, protects the entire place. There are many medieval churches, monasteries, basilicas that will impress you. They say that Ohrid had 365 churches one for each day of the year. 

The settlement, situated in the south west of Macedonia on the border with Albania has been built between the 7th and 19th century. You will see that in the architecture of the quaint buildings where the Ottoman architecture is obvious.

 

The remnants of the antique Roman theatre are a must see of the place.

The old bazaar is also an important spot of Ohrid, together with the lakeside cafes and the fabulous alleways that will give you a feeling of freedom.

Kayak, scuba diving, paragliding are among the water sports that you can practise.

So, a bit of everything- history, swimming, walking, shopping and great views! This is what Ohrid has in store for you! Dare to get it!

Visit Poiana Mărului and stay healthy!

At an  altitude of 500 metres, right in the Tarcului mountains and 25 km away from the town of Otelu Roșu, you will find another marvel of Banat , Poiana Mărului. This place has been declared a spa resort ever since 1936 when people realized that the high level of ozone in the air is of tremendous importance for our health.

 

A few interestig touristic routes can be done in this area. The waterfalls, cold streams, huge rock, mountains and forests can make you feel incredible.

 

 

There is a nun monastery where you can pray or buy different religious objects. The whole surroundings and the church itself are very well taken care of.

The lake is a place where people practise water sports( rafting, canoeing) as well as fishing( trouts, crucians, chubs, bleaks). Although this place seems to grow and develop constantly , there are still some shortcomings that you may find annoying. For example, on a sunny Sunday afternoon , we were unable to find a place to eat. Moreover, there were a a few big stray dogs that appeared out of nowhere while you are walking.

Another terrifying image is that of the  huge former   hotel, restaurant Scorilo which is in ruins nowadyas, although it has a great history behind it. The rooms and the whole building is about to collapse. If you are into horror movies you can take a glance at it. This used to be  a symbol of Poiana Mărului.

If you do not mind these, you will probably have a fantastic time!

 

Sicheviţa, a village close to the Danube

Sicheviţa is one of the villages that is close to the Danube. That may be one of the reasons that you would like to visit it one day. The commune made up of almost 3000 people has got 19 villages.

Situated in the South of Banat region is 29 kilometers away from the city of Moldova Noua. It is close to Locvei mountains and here you can also find hills, watersides and streams. The orchards of plums and other fruits are also a part of the sightseeing.

Most of the houses are repaired and well taken care of. A day of spring and summer can take you on a walk where you can notice some  great  flowers and  their flavours.

The presence of the Danube around it makes the climate have certain features. The summers are hot and the winters are mild.

The  commune has got 4 churches, 2 of which being  Orthodox. One of the church ( the one that is situated in the center, like in most of the villages of Romania, has got a monument dedicated to the heroes that lost their lives in the First World War. It is the locals way of saying thank you.

There is a complex of watermills that are still functioning these days.

The village is not very spectaculous , it is a frontier  village( Serbia is nearby), it does not even have a railway station. But it can be your choice, as long as you are in the area….