Peace Corps in Macedonia: Pelister

A couple of weekends ago, the “Bit-crew” (Ted and Daren), and Husted and I decided to climb Pelister, the highest mountain peak in our area. We embarked early on Saturday morning to begin our 5-hour hike. As we started our hike, the weather was warm and sunny. But after losing our way and adding an hour onto our hike, the clouds began rolling in and the temperatures dropped drastically.

Once we arrived at the mountain lodge, we dropped our bags and food, ate a quick lunch, and decided to hike to the peak of Pelister, which would be an additional 4-hour hike (there and back). This leg of the hike was interesting, as the eastern face of the mountain, which we hiked for the majority of the ascent, was calm, while the western face of the mountain, in the direction Resen and Lake Prespa, was windy, rainy, and cold. We mostly faced this inclement weather as we neared the peak, but it otherwise spoiled a nice view of the southwestern part of Macedonia.

When we returned to the lodge, we encountered Emily, Christy, and Laura, who had hiked from Brajchino, on the other side of the mountain. We relaxed for the duration of the night, and the next day the women climbed to the peak while we descended to Bitola. The other highlight of the mountain was enjoying the free berries throughout the whole hike. Mountain berries (бороница, similar in taste to blueberries) were bountiful throughout the whole national park, and blackberries were pretty common too. At certain points I was able to enjoy some wild raspberries! The other dudes avoided eating the wild fruit for fear that they would cause diarrhea, but I survived my berry binge without the runs. Overall, this weekend offered a great last hike in the Macedonian wilderness before the frigid weather arrives. I have nothing much to add, so I hope you enjoy these pictures.