Italy, North Macedonia and UK travellers uncover breathtaking ancient lake escape that rivals Lake Como with rich heritage stunning views and unbeatable value

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Ditch the crowds of Lake Como and explore Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, a stunning ancient lake with rich culture, serene views, and unbeatable value.

While Italy’s Lake Como remains a jewel of European travel with its shimmering waters and lavish villas, its beauty now comes at a price—overcrowding. Each summer, around 1.4 million visitors descend on the northern Italian lake, transforming its tranquil charm into a bustling hub of tourism that can sometimes diminish the very experience travelers seek.

But if you’re looking for a more serene and equally breathtaking alternative, head 1,300 miles east to the hidden gem of North Macedonia—Lake Ohrid. This ancient freshwater lake is twice the size of Como and far less crowded, offering unspoiled beauty and a rich cultural backdrop for those willing to wander off the beaten path.

Spanning over 138 square miles and plunging to depths of 288 meters, Lake Ohrid is believed to be the oldest lake in Europe, estimated to be around three million years old. Its pristine ecosystem is home to over 200 species found nowhere else in the world, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Exploring the lake is best done from the water. Traditional boat tours, as well as kayaks and paddleboards, offer immersive ways to experience its tranquil surface and dramatic shoreline. The lakeside town of Ohrid—both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cultural haven—is brimming with charm, and one of its most iconic landmarks is the 13th-century Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched above the lake with sweeping views just a short walk from the main port.

History buffs and curious visitors alike will enjoy the Bay of the Bones Museum—an open-air archaeological site built over water that recreates a prehistoric village with stilted dwellings, offering a rare window into ancient life on the lake.

Ohrid is also known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” thanks to its astounding number of churches—an estimated 360 scattered throughout the city. After a day of sightseeing, settle into a lakeside restaurant to enjoy Macedonian specialities like burek, a delicious flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Those wishing to stay longer will find no shortage of budget-friendly accommodations, with lakeside hotels and guesthouses available for as little as £30 per night.

Traveling from the UK is simple. Wizz Air offers direct flights from London Luton to Skopje for as little as £86 in May. From Skopje, Ohrid is easily accessible via a scenic three-hour taxi ride or a four-hour bus journey.

So, if you’re looking for crystal-clear waters, cultural richness, and a crowd-free escape, Lake Ohrid may just be Europe’s best-kept secret.