BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN NORTH MACEDONIA

Krusevo

Why go to Krusevo, Macedonia

Krusevo is heralded as one of the best places for paragliding cross-country (XC) in Macedonia, offering a mix of mountains and flatland that makes for safe, fun ...

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Lake Ohrid Galicica Tarpejca

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Krusevo Manastir

Krusevo in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia offers a paragliding site with an elevation ranging from 1556 to 1630 meters. This site is rarely used and is suitable for soaring with the possibility of small cross-country flights. There are various takeoff options available. The site record for distance is 14.7 km.

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Krusevo od pat

At an altitude of 1246 meters, this take-off spot in Krusevo, North Macedonia, serves as an occasional alternative when wind conditions are unfavorable at the main take-off site. Cross-country flights are possible from this location. The take-off faces east and is situated at 1230 meters above sea level, with a vertical drop of 600 meters. The site has seen flights up to 24.1 km. For more information, please visit the local paragliding community pages.

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Prilep Dve Steni

Located in the Prilep region of Former Yugoslav Macedonia, this paragliding site is situated at an altitude of 1429 meters above sea level, with a vertical drop of 900 meters. The site faces west and is known for being a good thermal generator, making it suitable for soaring and small cross-country flights. However, it is rarely used. The site record for the longest flight is 10.2 km, while the record for the region is 40.8 km. The terrain is rocky, and access to the launch site requires a 4WD vehicle. For more information on flights near this point, you can explore the region of Prilep in Former Yugoslav Macedonia.

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Krusevo low takeoff

Krusevo, located in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, offers an alternative take-off point at an altitude of 985 meters. This site is occasionally used, primarily for soaring, with the possibility of cross-country (XC) flights. The take-off is situated at 1230 meters above sea level, providing a 600-meter elevation difference. This spot serves as a secondary option when wind conditions are not favorable for the main take-off area. The take-off faces east, making it suitable for specific wind directions. The flight area record here is 24.1 km. For more information, you can explore flights near this point.

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Popova Shapka Sunny Hill Ceripashina

The takeoff site is situated at an elevation of 2427 meters in the Tetovo region of North Macedonia. This location is regularly used for paragliding, especially when the chairlift is operational, which is mostly during the winter season. The site is suitable for soaring and cross-country (XC) flights, although it is not among the most popular spots. The site record for distance is 15.7 km.

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Popova Shapka Tetovo

Popova Shapka is a renowned ski resort in Macedonia, also popular for paragliding. Located about 20 km from Tetovo, it offers a variety of takeoff options and is regularly used for soaring and cross-country (XC) flights. The site is generally relaxed, but be prepared for strong winds and thermals during the summer. Takeoff in summer is from a large grassy slope at approximately 1700 meters above sea level (asl), making it easy for most pilots. In winter, takeoff is at 2470 meters asl, accessible via a cable car. Landing is at 400 meters asl in big, flat fields at the bottom. While the area is generally safe, it's advisable to avoid landing in crops. To get there, drive to Tetovo and continue for another 24 km up the mountain to reach the ski center. The last 5 km is a dirt road, but it is navigable by any car. Popova Shapka is part of the largest mountain range in Macedonia, featuring five peaks over 2500 meters asl. The site offers a significant altitude difference, with simple sled rides taking about 30 minutes. Summer days can bring very strong flying conditions with great XC potential of over 50 km. Cloud bases can reach up to 3500 meters asl, and thermals can be as strong as 9 m/s. On calmer days, the flying experience is spectacular with stunning views. Weather hazards include strong thermals. It is recommended not to exceed 2500 meters asl on west winds near the mountain. For more information, you can contact local pilots through www.vertigo.org.mk. The local Tetovo pilots are known to be friendly and helpful. Tourism activities in the area include skiing in winter and hiking and mountaineering in summer. For more details, visit: [Acro Macedonia](http://www.acromacedonia.com/#/#flyingSites)

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Krusevo 1 East

At an altitude of 1407 meters with a height difference of approximately 740 meters, this paragliding site is highly frequented and renowned for its excellent thermal soaring conditions and potential for cross-country (XC) flights. Top landing is possible, making it a versatile spot for various flying activities. This is the main takeoff area and a competition launch site, considered the best in Macedonia. The site record for the region is 82.9 km, and it is located at 1420 meters above sea level, facing east-northeast towards the Pelagonia Valley. It is just a few minutes' drive from the town, with an asphalt road leading almost directly to the launch area. The launch site, known as 'East Start,' is a grassy, shallow slope bordered by large trees that provide ample shade on sunny days. Home thermals can be found to the left, right, or sometimes straight ahead from the takeoff point. 'East Start' offers a variety of cross-country flight options, including out-and-return flights to the town of Prilep to the east, various triangle and zigzag routes in the valley or over the ridge, and distance flights to the south up to the Greek border. Returning from the south can be challenging due to the light north wind that typically blows through the valley in the afternoon during the summer. However, a good road connection facilitates the return journey. For more visual insights, you can check out these videos: - [Vimeo Video 1](https://vimeo.com/135786280) - [YouTube Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1edNXz5ALg8) - [YouTube Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybqyvm-i20o) - [YouTube Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zMRM5_f0q0) - [Vimeo Video 2](https://vimeo.com/104876076) - [YouTube Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7EEUO14CkM) - [YouTube Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFZG_xqWzJQ) - [YouTube Video 6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3vrbYgSqk0) - [YouTube Video 7](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u40bwGY9tbs) - [YouTube Video 8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vy0jWugN7KY) For more information, visit [Fly Wide Open](http://www.flywideopen.org/) and [Windguru](https://www.windguru.cz/88176). The takeoff area is located 4 km from the town of Krusevo at 1470 meters above sea level. It is a large, grassy area right by the roadside, making it easily accessible. Landing options include vast flatlands, but you will need a driver to pick you up as public transport is slow and scarce. Avoid landing in planted fields to prevent crop damage. With a dedicated driver, multiple flights per day are possible, with the record being 11 takeoffs in one day. Weather conditions can include strong north winds, which create turbulent air. If the winds are too strong, head to the valley where a large hill called Ribnik offers perfect soaring conditions in all directions. For transportation, the nearest airport is in Skopje, the capital, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Krusevo. Taxis can be expensive, so it's advisable to arrange transport in advance. Local pilots are friendly and often travel to Krusevo on weekends. For more information, photos, and contacts, visit [Vertigo](http://www.vertigo.org.mk) and [Acro Macedonia](http://www.acromacedonia.com). For tandem flights, gear shops, and free flight schools, contact Mykhaylyuta Anatoliy at +389 97 206 6530. Krushevo is a historic town, the highest municipality in the Balkan region at 1200 meters above sea level. Nearby attractions include Bitola, known for its Hellenic period archaeology, and Ohrid, which features a large lake and is perfect for a summer paragliding holiday.

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Antena Popova Sapka Tetovo

Popova Shapka is a renowned ski resort in Macedonia, also popular for paragliding. Located about 20 km from Tetovo, it offers a variety of takeoff options within 200 meters, making it a frequently used site for soaring and cross-country flights. Depending on the season and time of day, conditions can range from very relaxed to highly thermal. Takeoff in summer is from a large grassy slope at approximately 1700 meters above sea level, which is big and easy to manage. In winter, takeoff is at 2470 meters above sea level, accessible by cable car. Landing is at 400 meters above sea level in large, flat fields at the bottom. While generally not problematic, it is advisable to avoid landing in crops. To get there, take the road to Tetovo and continue for another 24 km up the mountain until you reach the ski center. The last 5 km is a dirt road, but it is accessible by any car. This area boasts the highest altitude difference in Macedonia, with five peaks over 2500 meters above sea level. A simple sled ride can take about 30 minutes. Summer days offer strong flying conditions with great cross-country potential of over 50 km. Cloud bases can reach up to 3500 meters above sea level, and thermals up to 9 m/s are frequent. On calmer days, the flying experience is spectacular with stunning views. Weather hazards include strong thermals, and it is advised not to exceed 2500 meters above sea level on west winds near the mountain. For more information, you can contact local pilots or visit [Vertigo](http://www.vertigo.org.mk). The area also offers skiing in winter and hiking and mountaineering in summer. For visual insights, check out these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkShtakgcc0) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xA4jYud-q80) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybqyvm-i20o) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVoXeXQj8xA) - [Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Foeg649V2k) For more detailed information, visit [Acro Macedonia](http://www.acromacedonia.com/#/#flyingSites).

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Prilep Treskavec

Treskavec is a rocky mountain near Prilep, located in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The takeoff altitude is 1168 meters. The site is regularly used and is known for good afternoon soaring conditions. Cross-country (XC) flights are possible due to the strong thermals generated by the rocky terrain. The site record for a flight from Treskavec is 41.5 km. The takeoff area is characterized by natural grass, making it a comfortable spot for launching. For more information, you can visit the following links: - [Paragliding Club Delta Prilep](http://www.paragliding-club-delta-prilep.com.mk/) - [Paragliding Macedonia](http://www.paragliding-macedonia.com/) - [Acro Macedonia](http://www.acromacedonia.com/#/#flyingSites) - [Wind conditions](https://www.windguru.cz/517904) Check out some videos of flights from Treskavec: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRH4zXBYQfw) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wlf5vtaRmhU) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYKJV6hZX4M) - [Video 4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vXlC_HFohQ) - [Video 5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ4-x6qPaXs) - [Video 6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5W0We0qNDo) - [Video 7](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1J9v_8ydYg) - [Video 8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQzRpz1qrK4)

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Ribnik Novoselani

Located in the region of Prilep, Former Yugoslav Macedonia, this paragliding site offers an elevation of 654-730 meters with a height difference of approximately 50-100 meters. It is an easy site, regularly used with various launch possibilities. The site is ideal for local soaring and allows for top landing, making it a very good place for training and ground handling practice. The site record for this location is 1.6 km, and it is commonly used for school training. Occasionally, it provides good conditions for ridge soaring, which also allows for top landing. For more visual information, you can check out these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dp6nt95gYqE) - [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Xhli4cRpng) - [Video 3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qs85kLCuYes) The take-off area is a hill situated in the middle of the flatlands of Pelagonia, offering launch possibilities in all directions.

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Ribnik

Located in the region of Prilep, Former Yugoslav Macedonia, this paragliding site offers various launch possibilities with an elevation ranging from 654 to 730 meters and a height difference of approximately 50 to 100 meters. The site is particularly suitable for training and ground handling, making it a good choice for beginners. The predominant wind direction is southwest, which provides nice local soaring conditions and the possibility of top landing. This small hill is commonly used for paragliding schools and sometimes offers good ridge soaring opportunities. The site record for the longest flight is 1.6 km, and it is known for its suitability for training purposes. For visual insights, you can check out these videos: [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAn4cFvRT7A) [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNQJhbanPv8) Take off from this hill, located in the middle of the flatlands of Pelagonia, is possible in all directions.

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Prilep Sliva

Located in the Krushevo region of Former Yugoslav Macedonia, this paragliding site offers an elevation range between 1195 and 1239 meters, with a height difference of approximately 425 meters. The site is regularly used and is known for good soaring conditions, although cross-country (XC) flights are somewhat limited. Access to the takeoff area can be achieved by driving up and then hiking 1.6 kilometers, or potentially using a 4x4 vehicle with the local club's assistance. The takeoff area is large and grassy, providing ample space for launching. The landing zones face the flatlands of Pelagonia, with common landing directions being NNE near Shtavica or WSW near Kanatlarsi. To get there, travel from the city of Prilep towards Mariovo and stop at the saddle. From there, it's a 15-minute walk or accessible with a strong 4WD vehicle. This site is particularly spectacular and is a good alternative when conditions are too strong in Krushevo. It has good XC potential and no specific flight regulations. For more information, you can contact Vertigo Skopje or Dela Club Prilep. The area also boasts a fantastic 500-year-old village at the bottom, offering a unique rural tourism experience. For a visual overview, you can watch this video: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybqyvm-i20o).

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Topolcani 3

This site, located in the region of Former Yugoslav Macedonia, has an elevation of 743 meters with a height difference of approximately 130 meters. It is occasionally used and primarily serves as a local soaring site. The site record for distance is 0.7 km.

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Krusevo alternative

The launch site is situated at an altitude of 1252 meters with a height difference of approximately 490 meters. This location is an alternative launch and is rarely used, primarily suitable for soaring flights. For more details on flights from this site, you can check out the following links: [Flight 1](http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/576953) [Flight 2](http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/576935) [Flight 3](http://www.paraglidingforum.com/leonardo/flight/576942)

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Mavrovo Lake

Mavrovo, located on the slopes of Bistra Mountain and 120 km from Skopje, is a well-known tourist destination in Macedonia. The takeoff altitude is 1600 meters. While there are no flight logs available, the site is regularly used for soaring and scenic flights. For more information, you can visit the Mavrovo Open website: [Mavrovo Open](http://www.mavrovoopen.mk/). For weather conditions, check Windguru: [Windguru Mavrovo](https://www.windguru.cz/601187). For local paragliding activities, contact Paragliding Club CONDOR in Gostivar, Macedonia. You can reach them at +389 71 317 103 or visit their Facebook page: [Paragliding Club Condor](https://www.facebook.com/Paragliding-Club-Condor-254174251319818/). Watch a video of the site here: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhCC13YswQs).

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Topolcani 2

This paragliding site, located in the Pelagonija region of Former Yugoslav Macedonia, has an elevation of 756 meters with a height difference of approximately 150 meters. It is an occasionally used local soaring site. The site record for this location is 1.4 km. For more information, you can explore nearby flights in this region.

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Novoselani 'Oliver Cvetkovski'

Novoselani in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia offers a takeoff at an altitude of 695 meters. This site is occasionally used and is suitable for soaring. Pilots should be aware that there are two takeoff points named 'Novoselani' in Macedonia, so it's important to confirm the correct location before planning your flight. The site has recorded flights up to 4.9 kilometers. For more detailed information, you may want to check local paragliding forums or contact local clubs.

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Krusevo 2 West

Krusevo, Macedonia, offers a fantastic paragliding experience with its west takeoff being the secondary option. This site is frequently used and is known for its soaring conditions, good cross-country (XC) potential, and the possibility of top landing. The competition takeoff is located at 1434 meters above sea level. The east-northeast facing launch at 1420 meters ASL overlooks the Pelagonia Valley and is just a few minutes' drive from the town. An asphalt road leads almost directly to the launch site, making it very accessible. The launch area, known as 'East Start,' is a grassy, shallow slope bordered by large trees that provide shade on sunny days. Home thermals can be found to the left, right, or sometimes straight ahead from the takeoff. 'East Start' offers a variety of cross-country flight options, including out-and-return flights to the town of Prilep, various triangles and zigzags in the valley or over the ridge, and distance flights to the south up to the Greek border. Returning from the south can be challenging due to the light north wind that typically blows through the valley in the summer afternoons. However, a good road connection facilitates the return journey. The takeoff area is located 4 km from the town of Krusevo at 1470 meters ASL. It is a large, grassy area right by the roadside, making access easy and hassle-free. For landing, the region offers huge flatlands, but it's essential to avoid landing in planted fields to prevent crop damage. With a dedicated driver, multiple flights per day are possible, with the record being 11 takeoffs in one day. To get there, the nearest airport is in Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, followed by a 1.5-hour drive to Krusevo. Taxis can be expensive, so it's advisable to arrange transport in advance, possibly by connecting with local pilots who are usually friendly and helpful. Krusevo boasts excellent XC potential throughout the summer, with flyable conditions from morning to night. The cloud base ranges from 2500 to 4000 meters ASL, and the site is flyable from March until the first snow. There are no fees, and pilots of all abilities are welcome. Accommodation is cheap, but rental cars are either unavailable or pricey. For more information, you can visit [Vertigo](http://www.vertigo.org.mk). Weather hazards include strong north winds that can create turbulent air. If the winds are too strong, head to the valley where a large hill called Ribnik offers perfect soaring conditions in all directions. Flight regulations allow for flying up to 3000 meters ASL within a 10 km radius around the takeoff. Krusevo is a historic town, the highest municipality in the Balkan region at 1200 meters ASL. Nearby attractions include Bitola, known for its Hellenic period archaeology, and Ohrid, which features a large lake and is perfect for a summer paragliding holiday. For more information, you can visit [Fly Wide Open](http://www.flywideopen.org) and [Windguru](https://www.windguru.cz/88176). For additional details, photos, and accommodations, you can contact Mendo or visit [Vertigo](http://www.vertigo.org.mk).

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Prespa Lake

At an altitude of 1650 meters, this paragliding site is occasionally used and offers opportunities for soaring and mini cross-country flights. There are various takeoff options available, including directions to the south and southeast. For a visual experience, you can watch a flight at this location on YouTube: [Watch Flight](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05bldBJ9mxw). For more detailed information, you can refer to this PDF document: [Paragliding Over Prespa Lake](http://www.exploringmacedonia.com/content/pdf/paragliding%20over%20prespa%20lake.pdf).

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