Our Recommended Day Plan

Part 1 — The Shishevski Hike 

Moderate difficulty
~1.5 hours

This hike has a short, steep uphill at the very start, but it passes quickly, and the views from the top make it completely worth it. The trail brings you to Shishevski Monastery (St. Nikola Šiševski), a medieval church perched dramatically on the cliffs above the lake. 

Walk downhill to the main road. Head along the road until you reach the white bridge and cross it. Turn right and follow the trail that will lead you straight to St. Nikola Shishevski Monastery. The hike to the monastery takes about 1 hour. 

There is a rest area with water and a bathroom at the monastery. Take a moment to enjoy the views.

Once you're ready to start the descent, find the trail that starts behind the toilets at the monastery and follow it all the way down to the lake. It's very steep. The descent takes about 25 minutes.

When you arrive at the lake, find the metal plate on the bench and hit it a few times. Someone will come by boat to ferry you across. You might be asked to pay 1 Euro for the ferry. You will be brought to the boat company near the Canyon Matka Restaurant.

Part 2 — Boat Trip to Vrelo Cave

1.5 hours

Once you're back down, you can arrange a boat trip into the canyon and to the Vrelo Cave.  Go to the boat stand closest to the restaurant — this is the licensed one that goes inside the cave. 

500 MKD (~€8) per person. Cash only. No need to book ahead.

Full boat trip guide → here

Part 3 — Eat at one of Matka's restaurants.

There are three restaurants that you'll pass as you start walking back to the lodge. 

Full food and restaurant guide → here

Part 4 — Return to the Lodge

Come back to the Lodge and enjoy the majestic evening views.