Lake Ohrid is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes (Image: Getty)
Often called the ‘European Galápagos’ because of its rare ecosystem, this lake is a hidden gem and offers incredibly scenery with a backdrop filled with breathtaking mountains, historic towns, and water that is so clear, you’ll often be able to see as far as 20 meters below the surface. While the crowds flock to Italy’s most famous lakes, a hidden gem straddling the border of North Macedonia and Albania is stealing the spotlight as Europe‘s most beautiful destination.
1.4 million visitors make their way to Italy’s Lombardy region to visit Lake Como and its dazzling villas each year. And while we’ll never turn down a trip to a stunning Italian lakeside, there is a much quieter, more affordable alternative waiting to be explored.
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The town of Ohrid is also one of the oldest human settlements in Europe. (Image: Getty)
Lake Ohrid, a stunning, ancient body of water spanning the border between North Macedonia and Albania, has just been named the “most beautiful place in Europe” by Time Out travel writers.
Lake Ohrid offers a serene, budget-friendly escape that sacrifices nothing in terms of scenery. The lake is a UNESCO World Heritage site of immense natural and cultural importance and its calm, crystal-clear waters make it a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing.
According to the British Geological Survey, the lake is Europe’s oldest and most species-rich lake with more than 300 endemic species. The 1.4-million-year-old lake on the border between Albania and North Macedonia.
The city of Ohrid, located on the lake’s shore, is famous for its historic churches, monasteries, and traditional architecture. One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is the Church of St. John at Kaneo, which overlooks the lake from a cliff.
The Monastery of St. Naum is another highlight located on the southern shore of Lake Ohrid. The historic Orthodox monastery was founded in the early 10th century by Saint Naum, a disciple of Saints Cyril and Methodius. The monastery is set in a beautiful location where Lake Ohrid’s clear waters meet lush green landscapes and natural springs.
The lake is home to over 200 species of plants and animals (Image: Getty)
One TripAdvisor user wrote called the lake a “picturesque hidden gem” and said it is “one of the prettiest places” they have ever been to.
Another visitor from Germany said the lake was “Maybe one of the prettiest places [they] have ever seen.”
Someone else added: “Ohrid really is a heaven on earth, the lake is the oldest lake in Europe and with all its beauties and cheap accommodation and food it is an excellent budget – friendly vacation.
“During the summer months it can be crowded but not as much as other places as it is fairly hidden among the international crowd, the food is amazing and you can stay anywhere between a weekend trip and 20 days.
“There is really so much to see and to visit every beach out there.”
The 10 most beautiful places in Europe, according to Time Out travel
1. Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia
2. Saturnia Hot Springs, Tuscany, Italy
3. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
4. Alberobello, Apulia, Italy
5. Počitelj, Bosnia and Herzegovina
6. Norwegian Fjords, Norway
7. Kew Gardens, London, UK
8. Prinsengracht Canal, Amsterdam, Netherlands
9. Mosel Valley, Germany
10. Casa Batlló, Barcelona, Spain