Perched on the mountainous border between North Macedonia and Albania lies Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site, recently hailed as one of Europe’s most underrated and affordable travel destinations. The harbingers of this newfound acclaim? None other than solo traveler Natasha Whitley and her viral TikTok video.
A Hidden Gem in the Balkans
Natasha, famed online as travelsbytash, paints a vivid picture of Lake Ohrid, twice the size of Italy’s Lake Como, as the standout highlight of her Balkan journey.
Praised for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings, the lake offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of more common tourist destinations.
Affordable Luxury
Natasha’s accommodations, the Sunset Lake Hostel in Ohrid town, cost her a mere $7 per night.
The hostel provides a range of activities including kayaking, paddle boarding, and tours to the picturesque Church of St. John. Of special note is a four-hour boat trip offered by the hostel, with a unique twist—unlimited wine for just $8.
A Taste of the Balkans
Aside from the breathtaking landscapes and budget-friendly tourism, Natasha also highlights the area’s gastronomy—both scrumptious and affordable. Local delicacies like the flaky, savory pastry, burek, are available for as little as $1.
With her TikTok video amassing over 122,800 views, Natasha has sparked a wave of interest in Lake Ohrid.
While she doesn’t plan to return soon, favoring the thrill of new locations, she admits that the temptation to extend her stay was hard to resist, especially in September, with its perfect mid-20s temperatures.
North Macedonia is fast becoming a trending destination for 2024, with Skyscanner’s destinations and trends expert Laura Lindsay noticing a sharp uptick in interest. With its affordability, attractions, and now viral popularity, Lake Ohrid is indeed Europe’s hidden gem, waiting to be discovered.
