FAQs
North Macedonia eBiking Adventure
Travel
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We will meet you at Skopje Airport on arrival day.
You are responsible for booking flights to Skopje, North Macedonia’s capital city. Please ensure your flights align with our transfer times, otherwise you will need to book a private transfer. Our transfers run on a fixed schedule and can’t wait or be rearranged. -
We offer group transfers to and from Skopje airport on arrival and departure days. Transfers run on a fixed schedule and can’t be delayed.
The transfer times are:
24-28 July
Arrival day pick up: Skopje Airport
Transfer: 17:45
Transfer: 20:55
Departure day drop off: Skopje Airport
Transfer: 10:00
18-22 SeptemberArrival day pick up: Skopje Airport
Transfer: 17:45
Transfer: 20:55
Departure day drop off: Skopje Airport
Transfer: 10:30
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We do not provide individual transfers for anyone arriving at different times, so if your flight times do not match up with the transfer times specified above, you will be responsible for making your own way to the accommodation.
If you arrive on an earlier flight than our listed one, we will be able to offer you a spot in the transfer from the airport.
However, if your flight is very delayed, the transfer may not wait for you and you'll need to make your own way to the accommodation. If you depart on a later flight, you are welcome to use the transfer to the airport.
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We can organise a private transfer for you if your flights don’t align with our set-time transfer.
Arrival
A private transfer from the airport to the hotel in Skopje on arrival will cost approximately €30. This can be booked through us or simply get a taxi when you arrive.Departure
For the return trip, a private transfer will cost approx. €80. This will need to be booked in advance via us and paid for at the hotel on card.
There is also a shuttle bus that runs between Skopje Airport and the City Centre (Holiday Inn Stop). It costs approximately £3 each way - find out more here: eraktransporter.com. Please note the service isn’t always reliable. -
Skopje is small, but fascinating. Its streets showcase the city’s various cultural influences, from the old town bazaar to brutalist buildings and oversized statues. Quiet cobbled streets open up into modern squares, whilst the city’s castle offers views down across it all.
It’s also your first stop for authentic Macedonian dishes like Tavče Gravče, Ajvar, Pastrmajlija, as well as sampling some of the country’s incredible wines too.
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We will connect you with others on the trip via WhatsApp, so you may be able to arrange to travel together.
Accommodation & Food
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This eBiking holiday blends adventure with comfort in cozy, rustic hotels, with a dash of Balkan charm.
For the first night, we’ll stay in a comfortable, boutique hotel in Skopje.. For the rest of the trip we’ll move on to Popova Shapka to a great hotel with spa facilities and a swimming pool.
Room set up
Twin room with bathroom - shared with another Gutsy Girl
Private rooms with private bathroom.
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Yes, towels and hairdryers are provided.
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Yes, laundry facilities are available at our second hotel in Popova Shapka.
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Fill up on the true taste of North Macedonia with delicious breakfasts, farm to table dinners, grilled lunches, and organic cheese!
Breakfast and dinner will be served at the hotels, whilst lunches include a mix of packed meals and chances to dine out.
Please note, we can cater for most dietary requirements, however, options for vegans may be limited. Please contact us to discuss.
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Yes, we can accommodate all dietary requirements. Please inform us in advance for any dietary preferences to guarantee you receive the correct food during your trip.
Activities
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Simple - because although you still need to peddle, change gear and negotiate different terrains, eBikes help add a bit of extra power when you need it most! They give more riders more freedom to reach those trickier summits or navigate longer distances.
They’re also really fun!
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You’ll be eBiking up to 45km a day for three consecutive days. There will be plenty of breaks on the routes and the chance to relax in the evenings with good food and a spa.
Cycling will mainly be on gravel paths, with some steeper descents.
A good level of fitness is needed, as well as a love for the mountains and cycling, and an appetite for both challenge and reward.
Mavrovo Highland Ride: Distance: 36-46 km (route depending), Ascent: 450 m, Descent: 630 m
Leshnica Valley Ride: Distance: 45 km, Elevation gain/loss: ±1240 m (roughly)
Vakaf Meadows Ride: Distance: 30 km, Elevation gain: 450m
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Mavrovo Highland Ride: Distance: 36-46 km (route depending), Ascent: 450 m, Descent: 630 m
Leshnica Valley Ride: Distance: 45 km, Elevation gain/loss: ±1240 m
Vakaf Meadows Ride: Distance: 30 km, Elevation gain: 450 m
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We always encourage Gutsy Girls to give everything a go, but the rides are varied and may not be for everyone, every day. You know your body best - listen to it and choose what suits you.
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This eBiking holiday is rated moderate.
It involves three consecutive days of cycling on demanding terrain, covering between 30-45km per day with significant ascents and descents. A good level of fitness is needed, as is confidence with cycling rocky, uneven paths. You also need a love of cycling!
eBikes are also heavier than a non electronic bike so you need to be able to potentially lift or maneuver the bike.
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The main difference between an eBike and a “normal” bike is the motor. You still have to peddle and change gears, but the motor helps give a bit of extra oomph to your natural rider power, making things a little easier when you need it most.
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Our eBikes can carry up to 120kg.
Gear & Packing
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Yes, a 15-25-litre daypack or saddlebag is ideal for carrying layers, snacks, water, and essentials.
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North Macedonia in September can be very warm, but it will be cooler in the mountains, especially at night, so light layers may be best. Check the weather forecast before you go and adjust accordingly.
Other
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No need to stuff your wallet with cash —credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. That said, it’s handy to carry a small amount of local currency for those occasional personal expenses. North Macedonia uses the North Macedonia Denar (MKD).
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There’s no upper age limit for our adventures—our Gutsy Girls community welcomes women from 18 to 70+! We never ask your age, only that you’re ready for a bit of adventure and a lot of fun.
Most of our guests are between 24 and 60, with around 60% in their 30s and 40s. But once we’re out there—cycling over hills, hiking to breathtaking peaks, or paddling through remote waters—age truly becomes irrelevant. It’s all about sharing incredible experiences, laughing together, and building friendships that span generations.
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Absolutely! We’d love for you to join us solo!
Over 95% of our guests come on their own, and we’re all about helping you connect with like-minded adventurers. It’s a warm, welcoming vibe—come as you are, we can’t wait to meet you and make some amazing memories together!
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At Gutsy Girls, our top priority is working with guides and instructors who embody our values—passionate, experienced, and dedicated to building women’s confidence in the outdoors. While we aim to have female guides wherever possible, the reality is there are fewer women in the industry, so occasionally, we work with male instructors.
We carefully select those who are patient, friendly, and highly skilled, always keeping track of the feedback from our guests. We’re excited to see the number of female instructors grow as more women take to adventure sports!
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If the weather doesn’t play ball, we’ll adjust the plan accordingly. Safety is always our top priority, and we’ve got plenty of indoor or alternative activities lined up, just in case. You’re in safe hands!
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Our hosts are volunteers who are passionate about our mission and want to help more women get outdoors. They're not professionals in the sports or from the countries the trips are based in. Instead, they are there for you. Our guides on the other hand are employed by our local partners in-country and are there to teach you epic activities, lead your sessions and answer all your questions.
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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 €20-€30, or whatever you can or feel is the right amount.