Lake Matka, Reservoir in Saraj Municipality, North Macedonia.
Lake Matka is a reservoir nestled in a narrow canyon carved by the Treska River, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs on both sides. The water cuts through rugged terrain creating a dramatic setting within the mountain landscape.
The lake was created in 1938 when a dam was built across the Treska River, making it the country's first artificial reservoir. This engineering project transformed the river valley into a water storage area.
St. Andrew's Monastery sits on the shoreline with its stone structures telling the story of religious life in this region. Pilgrims and monks have shaped this place as a spiritual center for centuries.
Boat rentals and fishing opportunities are available at the lake, with facilities and lodging options nearby. The site is about 15 kilometers from Skopje and accessible by public transport or car.
Beneath the water lies the Vrelo Cave system, which contains two underground lakes and is one of Europe's deepest underwater cave networks. This hidden world below the surface offers explorers a remarkable destination.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
