Trip Guide: eBiking Adventure in North Macedonia

Ready to explore North Macedonia on two wheels? This guide covers everything you need to show up confident and prepared for three days of eBiking through epic national parks, past glacial lakes, and into remote mountain villages.

North Macedonia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Think sweeping mountain scenery, untouched villages, and a rapidly booming adventure scene without the crowds. The high-spec eMountain bikes mean you get all the freedom of cycling with a power boost when you need it most, making hill climbs and longer distances manageable while still getting a workout.

This is a trip for women who love cycling and want to get right into the heart of an incredible country. Get ready for three consecutive days of riding through demanding terrain, with breaks, spa time, and hearty local food to keep you going. Here’s what you need to know.

Getting There

Getting to North Macedonia is straightforward. You’ll fly into Skopje Airport (SKP), then it’s a 15-minute transfer to your first hotel in the city centre. On the final day, the transfer back takes roughly the same time.

We’ll pick you up from Skopje Airport mid-afternoon on arrival day and drop you back on departure day. These times are designed to match our suggested flight schedule, but you’re welcome to book any flights that align with the transfer times.

If you arrive earlier than the transfer or your flight is delayed, there’s a regular shuttle bus that runs between the airport and Skopje city centre (Holiday Inn stop) – find the timetable at eraktransporter.com.

Fitness & Skill Level

This trip is rated moderate. You’ll be eBiking up to 45km daily for consecutive days on demanding terrain. The rides include significant ascents and descents, mainly on gravel paths with some steeper sections.

eBikes make cycling easier by adding extra power when you need it most, but you still need to pedal, change gears, and manoeuvre your bike. Think of it as cycling with a boost; it helps, but it’s not a free ride. You’ll need a good level of fitness, confidence cycling on rocky, uneven paths, and a genuine love for being on the bike. This trip would be perfect for anyone looking to upgrade to mountain biking or cyclists who want to find out what the eBiking buzz is about.

Daily ride breakdown:

Mavrovo Highland Ride: 36-45km (route depending), 450m ascent, 630m descent
Leshnica Valley Ride: 45km, ±1240m elevation gain/loss
Vakaf Meadows Ride: 30km, 450m elevation gain

If you can handle consecutive active days with long rides and varied terrain, you’ll manage fine. If the idea of full days on a bike sounds exhausting rather than exciting, this might not be the right trip for you.

Fitness Requirements

Cardio: Medium to high-intensity cardio three or more times a week for around 45 minutes. Try running, cycling, spin classes – all the stuff that gets your heart pumping. Walking and yoga won’t cut it for the cardio demands.

Cycling-specific prep: Get out on your bike. Practice on varied terrain if you can, such as hills and gravel paths, and try longer distances. The more comfortable you are on a bike before you arrive, the more you’ll enjoy the experience.

Other considerations: eBikes are heavier than standard bikes (they have motors), and you need to be able to lift or manoeuvre them if needed. Our eBikes can carry up to 120kg.

Sleep & Eat

This eBiking trip blends adventure with comfort in cozy, rustic hotels with a dash of Balkan charm.

Night 1: Boutique hotel in the heart of Skopje with comfortable rooms and private bathrooms.

Nights 2-4: Hotel in the Shara Mountains with spa facilities, swimming pool, and mountain views. This is your base for the cycling days. After long rides, you’ll appreciate the spa and homemade dinners.

Room setup: Twin rooms (shared with another Gutsy Girl) or private rooms, both with private bathrooms. Towels and hairdryers are provided. Laundry facilities are available at the second hotel.

Food

All meals are included from dinner on arrival day to lunch on departure. Expect hearty, locally sourced Macedonian food designed to fuel active days – think homemade jams and pies, grilled meats, stuffed cabbage, fresh cheese, and plenty of fresh produce.

Breakfast and dinner are served at the hotels or local restaurants. Lunches include a mix of packed meals for the trail and opportunities to dine out at local spots. Dinner on the first night in Skopje is at a local taverna.

We can accommodate most dietary requirements, just let us know in advance. Vegan options will be very limited, so contact us to discuss specifics if that applies to you.

Weather

North Macedonia in July and September can be warm, with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s to low-30s (°C) in the valleys. In the mountains, it’s cooler – especially at night and in the mornings – so you’ll need light layers.

Weather in the mountains can change quickly. You might have sunshine and rain in the same day, so come prepared for anything. The guides will adjust plans based on conditions to keep you safe and ensure you get the best experience.

Sun protection is essential. You’ll be outside all day, often at altitude, with strong UV exposure. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are non-negotiable.

Good to Know

Money: North Macedonia uses the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s handy to carry a small amount of local currency for occasional personal expenses – think drinks with meals, snacks, or souvenirs. Most things are included in the trip price, so you won’t need much cash. Budget around £10-20 per day if you want extras.

Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory on our adventures, but if you’ve had a great trip and brilliant service, a tip for your guide or host is always appreciated. We recommend giving 1200-1800 MKD, or whatever you can or feel is the right amount.

Communication: WiFi is available at both hotels. You’ll be offline during the day while out riding, but that’s probably a good thing. Mobile coverage in the mountains can be patchy. Please also note that North Macedonia is not yet a member of the EU, so most UK data packages won’t work whilst there. If you need to be contactable whilst out on the trails we recommend getting an eSim.

Packing List

What We Provide

• • Premium eMountain bikes with high-quality suspension and gears
  • Cycle helmets

What You Need to Bring

Essential Cycling Kit:

• • Padded cycling shorts or leggings
  • Cycling gloves (padded palms reduce hand fatigue)
  • Cycling jersey or moisture-wicking tops
  • Base layers (merino or synthetic, never cotton)
  • Lightweight waterproof jacket
  • Light layers for cool mornings/evenings
  • Cycling shoes or sturdy trainers with good grip

Other Essentials:

• • 10-20 litre daypack or saddlebag for carrying layers, snacks, water, and essentials during rides
  • Refillable water bottle (at least 1 litre)
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Hat or cap for sun protection
  • Personal first aid supplies (blister plasters, any medications you need)
  • Toiletries and any personal items
  • Casual clothes for evenings (comfortable, nothing fancy)
  • Swimwear for the spa and pool

Packing Tips

Fabric Choices: Stick to merino wool or synthetic fabrics for anything next to your skin. Cotton holds moisture and will leave you uncomfortable on long rides. Merino is great for temperature regulation and doesn’t smell even after multiple wears, which is really useful when you’re cycling for three days straight.

Layering System: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a mid-layer for warmth (lightweight fleece or similar), and top with a waterproof jacket. You’ll be shedding and adding layers throughout the day as temperatures change and you move between valleys and mountains.

Padded Shorts: If you’ve never worn padded cycling shorts, they’re worth it for rides this long. They reduce chafing and make hours in the saddle far more comfortable. It’s down to preference though.

Daypack or Saddlebag: A 15-25 litre backpack is ideal for carrying layers, snacks, water, and essentials during rides. If you prefer, a saddlebag can work too, just make sure it’s secure.

Sunscreen and Protection: Mountain sun is intense so bring high SPF sunscreen and reapply throughout the day. Sunglasses are essential, and a cap or hat helps too (when you’re not wearing your cycle helmet). Sunburn will ruin your trip fast.

Hand Luggage Priorities: If your checked luggage gets delayed, pack essentials in your carry-on: medications, basic cycling kit, and a change of clothes. Skopje isn’t big on outdoor shops, so replacing specialized gear isn’t easy.

Trip Code MKDSHAEBK – Include this code in any message so we can find your trip straight away.