Macedonia: Ohrid

Ohrid, Macedonia: lake ohrid panorama, facing albania
see all photos »

I bid farewell to Jeanne and boarded a packed, piping hot bus to the resort town of Ohrid, located on the shores of one of the Balkan's most beautiful locations, Lake Ohrid.  The bus ride took longer than expected, over four hours.  When I arrived in the evening at Ohrid, I was lucky enough to get one of the last private rooms from an old man who was waiting at the bus terminal.

Although somewhat far from the old town, the room I rented was pleasant, albeit a converted dining room.  The pleasant man and his wife lived down the hall and insisted that I ring the bell when I come in from going out.  This always makes me uncomfortable, as I hate waking people up to get into my room.

UNESCO Resort Town

Ohrid, Macedonia: my hot digs
see all photos »

However, I went out and explored the Ohrid nightlife.  To my surprise, the town was out of control.  There were so many young people out, drinking in outdoor bars and cafes, and families were everywhere, even late at night.  Ohrid is where the rich of Macedonia holiday, but it also attracts its share of moderate to low income families.

I walked through the main street which, at times, was wall to wall with people.  After my sojourn I returned to my room and, ashamedly, woke up the old man to let me in.

Ohrid, Macedonia: lakeside park
see all photos »

I woke early as I had lots of plans for the day.  First, I took a walk through the charming, UNESCO-protected old town.  Just outside the old town and straddling the lake's cliffside is the magnificent church of Sveti Johan-Kaneo (St. John).  Without doubt one of the finest settings I have ever witnessed for a church.

The inside of St. John was cramped and filled with gilded icons and centuries old religious art.  Outside, the views of the lake were stunning.  I could see straight across the lake into Albania, as well as north to the competing resort town of Struga.  Lake Ohrid is notable for being one of the deepest and oldest lakes in all of Europe.  A truly gorgeous location.

Ohrid, Macedonia: albania in the distance
see all photos »

Above the church was a path leading past other compelling churches and monuments.  I cruised along and took a short trek to Samuil's Fortress, towering above the city.  There were more spectacular views of the lake from the 11th-century citadel, whose towers were rather impressive.  I moved along, picked up some souvenirs, and headed to the bus station for the short ride to Vevcani.