🇲🇰 Glacial lakes of Jablanica
If you ask us, this is the route that every nature lover should experience. Jablanica Mountain is a place we never forget to visit, and if we had to choose just one hike – it would be this one!
Recommendation 10/10
Overall
Jablanica Mountain rises above Lake Ohrid on the side of the city of Struga and is considered one of the most beautiful in Macedonia. It is part of the European Green Belt, which is significant for its plant characteristics. Along its length, the eastern slopes belong to Macedonia, while the western ones lie within the territory of Albania, where it has been declared a national park. From this, we can conclude that it is a unique natural environment, home to exceptional flora and fauna. Their presence is so pronounced that it is enough to walk along the marked trail to feel, see, smell, and hear it.
Perhaps you didn’t know until now, but Jablanica Mountain is quite accessible. In addition to paved roads leading to the villages, you’ll find a range of hiking and MTB trails to choose from.
Today, we’ll focus on one of them, which is particularly dear to us and one we always return to. We’ve named it:
3/4 GLACIAL LAKES OF JABLANICA
On Jablanica, there are 4 mountain lakes, and strangely but truly, all of them are located at a relatively close distance. In this route, we cover three of them. The hike is circular along a marked trail, ensuring maximum enjoyment, and the total length is 7 km, which any physically active person can manage.
Start
Although there are several ways to reach the lakes, our choice for the starting point is the village of Labunishta, specifically Labunishta bachila. They are located 20 km from Struga, in the direction of the village of Veleshta, and here is the exact location:
You can reach this point by vehicle, as most of the road is paved, but keep in mind that the section between the village of Labunishta and the bachila itself has short and very steep curves. While you won’t have a problem with an off-road vehicle, it might be a challenge with a regular car.
An alternative for this problem is to ask one of the locals to transport you and pay for the service or to contact Camp Scout in Struga, where they can organize transportation for you to and from the location.
*Check if there is a regular public transport line to the village of Labunishta.
Trail
You start the trail from the bachila at an altitude of 1,600 meters, following the direction marked on the attached map. The tall trees are now behind you, and you are surrounded by greenery, flowering meadows, and the sound of the stream flowing past the pastures.
*Be cautious of shepherd dogs. So far, we haven’t had any issues, but that doesn’t mean it’s entirely safe.
*If you’re bringing a dog, keep it on a leash until you’ve passed them.
*If you see shepherds, let them know you’ll be passing through.
*If the huts are empty, there’s a chance you might encounter one of the herds further up. In such a case, move aside until they pass and avoid cutting their path.
On your right side, a view of a magnificent peak will open up, unique in shape and terrain, which I believe won’t go unnoticed. Its name is Strizhak (2233m above sea level), and it is the second-highest peak of Jablanica.
By climbing higher, you will have a rare opportunity to witness such a spectacular view, reaching all the surrounding mountains and high peaks, even towards Lake Ohrid and its vast waters.
The vividness of Jablanica is unparalleled. The mountain is abundant with water, with streams springing from beneath every stone. Every metre climbed reveals different flowers and plants, along with various insects fluttering from one to another. Such nature is so striking that you don't need to be a biology expert to read its story.
Great Labunishka Pond
The first encounter with the mountain lakes is also the first pause to soak in this beauty. The lake has an irregular shape, hidden in the terrain at around 1920m. It has a depth of 2.85m and is considered the third largest.
Small Labunishka Pond
In close proximity, at nearly the same altitude, lies the smallest glacial lake in Jablanica, called Small Labunishka Pond or Lower Labunishka Pond.
It has the shape of a mountain eye, and its appearance changes significantly throughout the year. The trail passes by it and ascends to the neighbouring ridge, where another incredible view awaits.
Podgorechko Lake
The climb will be challenging after the short break, but trust that the view is worth it. This is the highest point of the route, and if you've made it this far, congratulations!
You are looking directly at the largest mountain lake in Jablanica, behind which rocky peaks rise, giving the impression that we are in the Alps.
While everyone’s gaze is focused ahead, don't forget to turn around and look at the section of the trail you’ve just passed. I don't want to spoil it for you, but this is a movie scene where the small lake and Strizhak are in one frame. Don’t forget to take a photo for the memory.
The movement becomes easier once you see what's ahead. This time, the beach is at 2000m above sea level, and the water is not warm, but refreshingly cold. If you're the type who does ice baths, grab your swimsuit and dive into the mountain waters.
Podgorechko Lake covers an area of about 4000m², making it the largest of all four lakes you can encounter on this mountain. Here are a few interesting facts about it:
- Despite its high altitude, the lake is home to living organisms.
- It reaches a depth of 10m, making it as deep as Lake Dojran.
- The water from the lake is potable and, in addition to being used for watering livestock, it is also used for drinking in the surrounding villages.
The remainder of the trail
If your break is over, it’s time to head back, or in our case, continue forward. The movement follows the direction of the stream flowing from the lake. Then, through wide expanses of green pastures, we descend towards the forest. In this section, we need to pass through the rocky terrain, which is the last obstacle.
In the end, we return to the bachila, completing the circular route.
Additionally
- There is an alternative route for returning, which can take you down to the nearby village of Podgorci, from where you have the option to return by your own transport, public transport (if there is a regular line), or a taxi. In this case, you will need to deviate from the circular trail and head in a different direction.
- If you decide to walk from the Labunishki bachila to the village of Labunishta, there is a trail parallel to the asphalt road, but it is not marked and is not available on the map. Consult with local hikers beforehand and ask for advice.
Alternative map:
Camping
- Our recommendation for camping in Struga is Camp Scout, which is located in the city but perfectly hidden and mysterious, so you'll forget you're in a populated area. It offers various types of accommodation such as tents, camper van parking, wooden cabins, and rooms. In the centre of the camp, there is a common seating area with a fireplace, so if you're alone, you'll meet many like-minded people here!
- Camping in nature is the second option and a great choice for all adventurers. Find a suitable camping spot by one of the lakes and enjoy the view of a million stars! Then, leave nature clean and untouched, just as you found it.
Weather conditions
Above Jablanica, three different climates meet, contributing to a variable forecast throughout the year. Therefore, we advise you to have appropriate equipment with you, which will be suitable for all four seasons.
Wildlife
Mount Jablanica is home to the brown bear, Balkan lynx, wolf, as well as various types of snakes, including the venomous viper. Although there have been no issues between humans and animals so far, remember that you are moving in their territory. Therefore, it is best to announce your presence by being loud. Tap with a stick, carry a whistle, or attach a bell to your backpack. If you don't have these items, simply hanging metal coffee mugs on the outside of your backpack will be enough.
In conclusion
We hope this article has inspired you to put Jablanica on your list of places to visit, and once you do, we will all agree that it deserves to become another national park in Macedonia!
Until the next adventure,
Ana and Mane