Pelister National Park & Pelister Eyes
Национален парк Пелистер
North Macedonia's oldest national park, with Balkan pine forests, the 2,601-meter Pelister Peak and two glacial lakes known as the 'Pelister Eyes'.
Pelister National Park was established in 1948 and is North Macedonia's first national park. It is famous for its primeval forests of the native Balkan pine (molika). The classic hike starts from Kopanki or Dihovo and climbs to glacial lakes at about 2,200 meters, the Big Lake and Small Lake, collectively known as the 'Pelister Eyes.' From there you can ascend the 2,601-meter main peak, where on clear days you can see Lake Prespa and Greece. The round trip takes 6–8 hours. Weather on the mountain changes quickly, so bring plenty of water and warm clothing. In winter there is a small ski area around Kopanki. The park is about 15 km from Bitola, and you need to drive or take a taxi into the park.
Opening hours
Open all day (mountain access depends on weather)
Nearby sights
- Dihovo
- Church of St. George, Kurbinovo
- Church of St. Demetrius
- Clock Tower, Bitola
- Ishak Çelebi Mosque
- Širok Sokak
- Yeni Mosque
- Officers' Home, Bitola