Day hiking in Pelister National Park
The National Park Pelister, the oldest and one of the most beautiful national parks in North Macedonia. It is the first declared national park in the territory of North Macedonia. It was declared a national park, Pelister, in 1947. National Park Pelister is located between the Prespa Valley and the Pelagonija Valley. It is located in the southwestern part of the country, on the northern slope of Mountain Baba. The park was named after the highest peak of the mountain, the peak Pelister, with an altitude of 2,601 metres. Otherwise, Baba is the most southern mountain with alpine characteristics in the Balkans.
Easy hike in the park
This guided hiking tour is perfect for nature lovers of all ages and fitness levels. No prior hiking experience is needed — just a love for the outdoors and a sense of curiosity. We’ll walk through the peaceful Molika pine forest, home to the rare 5-needled Pinus peuce, a Balkan endemic species unique to Pelister — Macedonia’s oldest national park. Along the way, you’ll learn about the park’s rich biodiversity and enjoy the scent of alpine flora. Your local guide will lead you to hidden viewpoints and quiet spots with breathtaking panoramas that casual visitors often miss.
Hike Detail: Total distance: 10 km.| Duration: 3 to 4 hours. | Starting altitude: 1,420 m.| Ending altitude: 1,800m. | Elevation gain: 400 m.
Pelister big Lake
This is one of the most popular and scenic hiking trails in Pelister National Park. The route highlights the park’s natural landmarks: Molika pine forests, stone rivers, crystal-clear spring water, and the famous glacial lakes known as the “Pelister Eyes.”This tour offers a unique opportunity for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the mountain landscape. The trail begins in the village of Nizopole at 1,170 meters and ascends through open grasslands, wild blueberry fields, and alpine pastures, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After approximately 3 hours of hiking, we reach the Big Lake at 2,218 meters, where we’ll rest and enjoy the peaceful lakeside surroundings before returning along the same path.
Hike Detail: Total Distance: 12 km.|Duration: 6 to 7 hours.| Starting Altitude: 1,170 m.| Highest Point: 2,218 m.| Elevation Gain: 1,050 m.|Difficulty: Moderate
Pelister Peak and two Mountain Lakes
If you want to see most of Baba mountain with the peak Pelister, and on your way to visit two mountain lakes called Pelister eyes, this tour is for you. A full-day tour of hiking tour is around 24km. And you need to be in good shape to be able to hold one day of hiking with several short breaks. The starting point is the Info Center of National Park Pelister at 1360m. Most of the trail passes through a high mountain area with magnificent relief, formed of a large number of stone blocks, river rocks, and beautiful views. From the peak, Pelister, the trail continuously descends through high mountain pasture areas, passes by the small lake at 2180m, and gradually climbs to the big lake at 2218m. The end of the tour is at the village of Nize Pole on the other side of the mountain at 1170m.
Hike: The length of the tour is 24km.| Duration of the tour: 9-10hours.| Starting point: 1360m.| Ending point altitude 2601m.| Height Difference: 1240m.| Difficulty of the tour: Moderate/Challenge.
Discover Malovište – Hidden Gem of Pelister National Park
Malovište is a mountain village located just 20 kilometers from the city of Bitola. It is the only inhabited settlement situated within the boundaries of Pelister National Park.
Nestled at the foot of Baba Mountain, Malovište is a unique and peaceful village known for its authentic stone architecture. The houses are beautifully preserved and built in the traditional Macedonian style, and the narrow cobbled streets give the impression that time has stood still.
The village is home to several historic Orthodox churches and valuable cultural landmarks, making it a special place for visitors interested in history, architecture, and tradition.
Malovište also offers a wide range of outdoor experiences. With easy hiking, visitors can explore the old churches and scenic surroundings. For more adventurous hikers, there are several moderate ascents to nearby peaks such as St. Spas, Vrteska Peak (2,010 m), Mala Čuka (2,009 m), and Golema Čuka (2,179 m). From these summits, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views — on one side, the rugged slopes of Pelister, and on the other, Lake Prespa stretching across the borders of North Macedonia, Albania, and Greece. The panoramic mountain and lake landscapes are truly stunning.
