Matka Canyon: the back story

About Matka Canyon: the back story

By the ULTIMATE Skopje Editorial Team

Editor-in-Chief: Jai Michael

Matka Canyon, south-west of Skopje, is where the river Treska has cut a deep gorge through the mountains. A dam built in 1938 turned part of it into a long, emerald lake, and boats now take visitors into the canyon.

The canyon

The Treska river runs through steep limestone walls covered in forest. The Matka dam, built in 1938, created Lake Matka; beyond it, the canyon continues for kilometres, home to rare plants, butterflies and birds of prey.

Vrelo Cave

Boats run from the dam to Vrelo Cave, with stalactites and an underwater shaft that divers have explored to great depths. It is one of several caves in the canyon.

Thirty minutes from the city, and you are in a wild gorge.

Monasteries on the cliffs

St Andrew’s Monastery, beside the dam, has frescoes from 1389. Matka Monastery, dedicated to the Holy Mother of God, stands near the entrance to the canyon, and a steep trail climbs to St Nicholas Šiševski, perched high above the water.

Paddling and walking

You can hire kayaks at the dam, or follow the path along the cliffs above the lake. It is narrow in places, so wear good shoes.

Our advice: go early on a weekday, take the boat to Vrelo Cave or paddle there yourself, and walk the cliff path for the views. Have lunch by the water and visit St Andrew’s Monastery before you leave.

Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Matka Canyon: the back story before you go.