Exploring Matka Canyon’s Beauty: Everything You Need to Know
From the moment you step foot in this breathtaking landscape, you’ll understand why Matka Canyon is a must-visit attraction in North Macedonia. Whether you’re an adventure junkie or just looking for a leisurely walk, the canyon has something for everyone.
Matka Canyon is a place where cliffs meet the sky and crystal-clear water flows through a green valley. It’s a natural wonder located in the heart of Macedonia, just 17 km from Skopje. Matka Canyon is a haven for those who want to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature. It’s a must-see destination. Add it to your itinerary, you won’t regret it! If so, here is what you need to know to get ready for this trip.
History and Attractions of Matka
The lake was formed when a dam was built on the River Treska in 1938. Matka Canyon covers approximately 5,000 hectares (12,000 acres). Matka Lake is a playground for visitors who want to escape the city life of Skopje. Today it’s home to recreational activities, wildlife, and landscapes for every kind of adventurer.
Matka Canyon is not just about the views; it’s also full of natural and historical wonders. It has more than 200 endemic species of plants, and over 80 endemic species of butterflies, spiders, and scorpions.
You’ll find 10 caves in the canyon, Vrelo Cave being the most popular one. Podvrelo Cave is considered the deepest underwater cave in the world. Krzysztof Starnawski, a Polish diver who holds the record, descended 240 meters into the depths of Podvrelo (Under-Vrelo).
The crystal-clear and swift Treska River, which forms Lake Matka, is a beloved destination for wild water kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. On a specially designed 350-meter trail with difficulty levels 3 and 4, state and international competitions for experienced teams are held, drawing large crowds of spectators.
Additionally, the steep and towering cliffs along Lake Matka present a formidable challenge for climbers, who showcase their skills and bravery in tackling this rugged terrain.
Add to that some medieval monasteries hidden in the trees, and you have the perfect day trip that combines nature, history, and adventure.
How to Get There
One of the best things about Matka Canyon is how close it is – only 17 km from Skopje, it’s an ideal day trip for anyone in the city.
You can get there by car, take bus number 60 from the Skopje City Bus Station, or take a taxi.
Also, you can book one of our guided tours – group tours, starting every day from 9:30 АМ and 1:00 PM from Skopje Fortress, or private tour with starting point and departure time of your choosing.
The entrance and parking at Matka Canyon Natural Park is free.
There’s a small parking lot near the lake, but it’s safer to park at the larger parking area as soon you enter the Park.
The 10 minute walk by the river is uphill but doable and wheelchair/mobility friendly.
Hydropower Plant “Мatka”
On the way, you’ll pass the river dam and Hydropower Plant “Matka,” with its Matka Exhibition Center, which tells the history of electricity in Macedonia and in the world. In this unique educational center in Macedonia, visitors can learn more about energy, its history, production, transmission, and use through modern interactive methods.
Due to safety concerns, individual entrance to the exhibition is not allowed. However, Skopje Daily Tours can arrange guided group visits to the Matka Hydroelectric Power Plant upon request.
What You Need
– Whatever you choose to do at Matka Canyon, there will be some walking involved, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
– Sometimes it’s wise to bring an umbrella or raincoat.
– Since there’s an opportunity for swimming, you might need a swimsuit and towel.
– You can bring a flashlight to see the caves, though a smartphone will also work.
– You can use your credit card, but not everywhere, so it’s good to have some cash with you. Macedonian denars or Euros are accepted. Note that there are no ATMs around the Matka area.
– There are a few kiosks and restaurants around, but it’s smart to bring some water, especially if you go there on a hot summer day.
THINGS TO DO AT MATKA CANYON
There’s plenty to do in Matka Canyon. Whether you’re an adventure junkie or just looking for a leisurely walk, the canyon has something for everyone.
Visit monasteries
If you’re a history buff and appreciate cultural heritage, Matka offers a feast for your senses with medieval architecture and art. Here are some notable sites to see:
• St. Andrew’s Church
• Dormition of the Holy Mother of God Monastery
• Šiševo Monastery
If you’re ready for a bigger physical challenge, you can also visit several archaeological sites, including:
• The ruins of St. Nedela Church, perched high above Lake Matka
• The remains of medieval Markov Grad fortress
– Dormition of the Holy Mother of God Monastery
At the entrance to Matka Canyon, about 100 meters from the main road, uphil on the right-hand side, lies the female monastery Dormition of the Holy Mother of God. The 14th-century church, still active today, is surrounded by a beautiful flower garden, exuding spiritual peace. The frescoes are exceptionally old and artistically valuable, though they haven’t been restored. The nuns are very kind, but it’s not advisable to stay for too long.
– Saint Andrew’s Church
On the very pier with boats and kayaks stands Saint Andrew’s Church, truly a gem of medieval Macedonian architecture and painting. Entry is charged (€ 2), but the church is often closed, so you’re left to admire its exterior only.
– Šiševo Monastery
Those seeking adventure might want to visit the Šiševo Monastery, but this will require crossing over to the other side of Matka Lake and hiking along a steep path for about 30 minutes. This monastery is usually closed as well.
Take a tour to the Vrelo Cave
A boat tour is a great way to see the canyon, especially if you want to visit Vrelo Cave. This scenic and relaxing experience lets you see the canyon from the water. The boat ride is slow, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photos and a guide who will tell you about the area’s history and geology.
The cave tour takes around 1 hour in total. You get to the cave by boat (20 minutes), and you’ll see the beautiful canyon, kayakers, climbers, and small cottages on your way there.
Once you get to the cave, there are some steep stairs that are not wheelchair/mobility friendly. There’s a walkway through the cave where you can see stalagmites, stalactites, the two lakes, and dripstone pillars.
Just one little warning; the cave is fairly dark, cold and quite slippery — so be careful.
A Matka cave tour costs from 500 Denars (€ 8.5) per person, which includes boat transport, life vest, entrance to the cave, and a guide.
For a more luxurious experience, you can take a catamaran boat for 600 Denars per person.
Take a boat Trip
Taking a boat trip through Matka Canyon is a relaxing way to spend some time. You sit quietly in the boat and just enjoy the mirroring scenery and beautiful flora and fauna. Boat trips are about 30 minutes long and cost 300 Denars per person (€5).
There are two places where you can take a boat trip. The first boat dock is for river-only boat rides, and the second one is for cave tours and boat rides.
Note that boats leave only when they are full, so there are not set departure times.
Kayaking
Another fun thing to do in Matka Canyon is kayaking. It’s a beautiful way to see the canyon. You can rent a kayak by the hour. You can take out a single kayak for 300 Denars ($ 5) or a double for 500 Denars an hour. Peddling on the lake is pretty easy since there is basically no current. You can also go to the cave with the kayak, but know that you’ll still have to pay 100 Denars for the entrance into the cave, and rowing there and back will take much longer than the boat tour.
Hiking
If you like hiking, you’re in for a treat! The canyon boasts several routes, from short 30-minute walks to 4-5-hour treks. With trails for all fitness levels, it’s a great place to hike. You can start with an easy walk around the lake or challenge yourself with a more difficult hike to the top of the canyon for breathtaking views.
If you decide to hike, be mindful of potential hazards. Stick to marked paths, be careful around cliffs and steep drops, and always stay hydrated.
For an easy walk, you can follow the path from St. Andrew’s monastery at the entrance. It continues about 6-10 km into the canyon, and once you get past the first km, very few people go any further.
If you want some action, you can take a challenge to hike to the medieval Šiševo Monastery, which will take you 30 minutes of hard walking through the woods and bushes. The most direct route is the Yellow Trail. Simply cross the river by boat and then hike straight up. It can be a bit steep, and there’s nothing up there except the monastery, so bring water! Most of the time the monastery is closed.
If you’re already in Skopje, like hiking, and have suitable footwear, it’s worth checking out the hiking tour organized by Skopje Daily Tours. This 7-hour tour, with the pickup location and time of your choice, involves moving through nature and viewing the city of Skopje, giving the tour a combined urban-outdoor feel.
Swimming
Swimming in Matka Lake is possible, but the water is pretty chilled. If you’re visiting in summer, you might want to take a dip in the lake or river. However, you do it at your own risk, considering that Matka does not have designated safe swimming areas or rescue services.
Have a lunch or coffee
Near the dock and Saint Andrew’s Church, there’s a lovely Canyon Matka Hotel&Restaurant surrounded by manicured flowers, offering a beautiful view of the lake. Here you can enjoy a reliable meal or try some of the wonderful Macedonian wines. Apart from dining area there’s a bar serving only coffee or tea, located on the open terrace.
The restaurants on Matka Canyon can get busy and prices might be higher than expected, but since Macedonia is not an expensive country, you won’t be out of pocket.
On the way from the parking lot to the canyon, there are several restaurants, sandwich shops, as well as street vendors selling corn, peanuts, ice cream. Freshly picked forest fruits and jars of honey and sweets are also sold.
There are benches for rest and tables in front of and around the monastery, so you can bring your own food too.
Note that there’s a charge for the toilets (60 Denars, € 1), which are otherwise clean and nice.
Spend the night
You can also stay for multiple days in Matka Canyon. There are accommodations near and within the canyon and plenty to do and see. Canyon Matka Hotel&Restaurant has 10 rooms, in a rustic setting, which can be booked online.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Best time to visit Matka Canyon is from late spring to early fall, May to September. During these months the weather is mild and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking and exploring the canyon’s limestone cliffs and blue water. Summer months, June to August are warm and perfect for water activities but also the busiest with more visitors.
If you want a quieter experience with fewer people visit in late spring (May) or early autumn (September). During these months the weather is still nice and the surrounding flora is in bloom adding extra charm to your adventure. Avoid winter months from November to February as the weather is cold and unpredictable and some of the activities and trails might be limited.
SOME FINAL THOUGHTS
Matka Canyon is a treasure trove of natural wonders, historical landmarks, and exciting activities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, this enchanting destination has something for everyone.
From the moment you step foot in this breathtaking landscape, you’ll understand why Matka Canyon is a must-visit attraction in North Macedonia. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience one of the most unforgettable days of your travels!
