Galičica National Park
Rugged mountain park offering stunning views of Lake Ohrid & Prespa, with scenic drives and hiking trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Galičica National Park
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rugged mountain park offering stunning views of Lake Ohrid & Prespa, with scenic drives and hiking trails.
"The views from the top of the mountain were incredible, a must-stop in the winter!"
🚗 Car is Key
A car is essential for exploring the park's vastness and reaching viewpoints. :car:
🗺️ Offline Maps Recommended
Cell service can be unreliable; download maps beforehand. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Lake Views
Summit viewpoints
Breathtaking vistas of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa from the mountain's crest. A photographer's dream!

Scenic Mountain Drive
Road between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa
A winding road offering ever-changing, spectacular scenery. Perfect for a memorable road trip.

Winter Wonderland
Throughout the park
Experience a magical snow-covered landscape, offering a unique and serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is Key
A car is essential for exploring the park's vastness and reaching viewpoints. :car:
🗺️ Offline Maps Recommended
Cell service can be unreliable; download maps beforehand. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Hike Prepared
Trails can be unmarked; wear sturdy shoes and carry water. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramas of both lakes. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is Key
A car is essential for exploring the park's vastness and reaching viewpoints. :car:
🗺️ Offline Maps Recommended
Cell service can be unreliable; download maps beforehand. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Hike Prepared
Trails can be unmarked; wear sturdy shoes and carry water. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning panoramas of both lakes. :camerawithflash:
💰 Entrance Fee
There's a small entrance fee, often payable by card. :moneybag:
❄️ Winter Magic
The park is stunning in winter, but be prepared for snow and ice. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa, calling the scenic drive a highlight. The park's beauty, especially in winter snow or autumn colors, is frequently mentioned. However, some reviewers express concern over the park's use as a dumping ground for construction waste and recent wildfires, impacting the natural beauty and experience.
"Though we were just passing through and stayed just one night the views from the top of the mountain were incredible. We paid to enter the national park at the end of the mountain road that descended to the lake and they accepted card.
We stayed on the eastern side of the lake at the Divino Camperstop which had good facilities and is walking distance to Ohrid though we didn’t have time to stop there."
Laura England-Kerr
"I wish the google maps locations would be a bit better marked about where all those places are that people take photos of (gates, churches etc). We ended up on an unexpected hike. Don’t recommend unless it’s your plan and you know how to hike. But it was cool"
Liisi
"So sad how the national park is being turned into a landfill site of construction waste originating from the less than beautiful new holiday homes and hotels that are replacing the traditional stone houses. Thoughtless people are ruining the architectural and natural heritage.... 😢"
Erik Thrane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Galičica National Park is by car. The park is located between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. The main road that traverses the park connects the towns of Ohrid and Resen, offering spectacular views. If you don't have your own vehicle, consider renting a car in Ohrid or arranging a taxi. Some tours also offer transportation into the park.
While challenging, it's possible to visit parts of the park without a car. You could potentially take a taxi to specific viewpoints or trailheads. However, for comprehensive exploration and to truly appreciate the scenic drives, a car is highly recommended.
The primary access is via the scenic road that runs over the mountain, connecting Lake Ohrid to Lake Prespa. There are various pull-offs and designated viewpoints along this route.
Galičica National Park is approximately a 1-hour drive from Ohrid, depending on your starting point and destination within the park.
Public transport directly into the heart of Galičica National Park is limited. Buses typically serve the towns around the lakes, but not the interior of the park itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee to access Galičica National Park, especially when driving the main scenic road. This fee helps with park maintenance and conservation efforts.
The entrance fee is generally quite affordable, often around 5 Euros per vehicle. It's advisable to have some local currency or be prepared to pay by card, as payment methods can vary.
The park is generally accessible year-round, but the main scenic road might be closed during winter due to snow. The park itself doesn't have strict opening hours like a museum, but access via the road is dependent on weather conditions.
Tickets are usually purchased at designated entry points or toll booths along the main roads into the park. Advance booking is generally not required or available.
During winter, access may be restricted due to snow and ice. It's always a good idea to check local conditions before your visit, especially if planning a winter trip.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Galičica offers a range of trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Popular routes include trails leading to the summit for panoramic views. Some visitors have found themselves on unexpected hikes due to unclear Google Maps locations, so be prepared for adventure!
The park is home to diverse flora and fauna. While sightings are not guaranteed, you might encounter various bird species, small mammals, and a rich variety of plant life, especially during spring and summer.
Absolutely! The park is renowned for its stunning viewpoints overlooking both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. The drive itself offers numerous opportunities for incredible photos.
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore trails. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring sun protection and water, even on cooler days.
Yes, Galičica National Park is a fantastic destination for cycling, with many scenic roads and trails. It's a popular spot for road cycling and mountain biking enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spots are the panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. The winding mountain roads themselves are also incredibly photogenic, especially during autumn.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the lakes and mountains. Midday can be harsh, but still offers incredible views.
Drone usage regulations can vary, but generally, drones are permitted in national parks for recreational purposes. Always check local regulations before flying. Some creators have captured stunning aerial footage.
A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Finding specific, well-marked photo locations can be tricky. Some visitors recommend researching popular spots beforehand or being open to discovering them organically. Google Maps might not always be precise for these hidden gems.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Cyclists
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Drive: A Journey Between Lakes
This drive is particularly popular for road trips and offers numerous pull-offs where you can stop to admire the scenery, take photos, and simply soak in the natural beauty. The contrast between the deep blue of Lake Ohrid and the often more serene, expansive Lake Prespa is striking. Many visitors consider this scenic drive to be the highlight of their visit to the park, providing unforgettable vistas and a true sense of the region's grandeur.
Pro Tip: Consider driving this route during the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and colors. Be prepared for potential fog or clouds, especially at higher elevations, which can add a mystical atmosphere to the landscape.
Hiking and Exploration in Galičica
While some trails are well-marked, others can be less defined, leading to unexpected discoveries or even getting a bit lost, as some visitors have noted. It's crucial to wear appropriate hiking footwear, carry sufficient water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Popular hiking routes often start from various points along the scenic mountain road, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your preferences.
Beyond hiking, the park is also ideal for cycling, with its network of roads and paths offering exciting routes for both road cyclists and mountain bikers. Whether you're seeking a challenging trek or a leisurely exploration, Galičica promises an immersive natural experience.
Seasonal Beauty: From Snow to Autumn Glow
Spring and autumn bring vibrant colors to the park. Spring sees wildflowers bloom across the hillsides, while autumn paints the landscape in hues of gold, red, and orange. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. The autumn glow, in particular, creates a stunning visual spectacle, making it a favorite time for photographers.
Summer offers warm weather and clear skies, perfect for enjoying the panoramic views and outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest season, with more visitors and potentially more 'jeep-tours' operating simultaneously. Visiting during the shoulder seasons or weekdays can help avoid the largest crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit