Three glacial lakes, one mountain, and countless reasons to visit Jablanica – Rupicapra MTB Struga promotes the beauty of active eco-tourism.

LABUNISHTA – Jablanica Mountain, one of the most impressive and least explored mountains in North Macedonia, has once again confirmed its unique natural beauty. Members of the Mountain Biking Association "Rupicapra MTB Struga" carried out a mountain biking tour to three of the four glacial lakes in Jablanica, sending a strong message for the promotion of active eco-tourism and the preservation of natural heritage.

On a circular route of 42 kilometers, with a total ascent of 1,650 meters, five cyclists climbed from 700 to nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, passing through the picturesque Labunishki and Podgorechki pastures up to the high-altitude glacial lakes – Upper Labunishka Lokva, Lower Labunishka Lokva, and Podgorechko Lake, the largest glacial lake in Jablanica.

Every kilometer of the trail offers a new scene – dense beech forests, vast high mountain pastures, clean mountain air, and spectacular panoramic views. Although the ascent is a serious physical challenge, the reward is the untouched natural landscapes rarely found elsewhere.

Jablanica is the second largest mountain in western North Macedonia and stretches along the Macedonian-Albanian border. Its mountain ridge, about 50 kilometers long, rises mostly above 2,000 meters, with the highest peak – Crn Kamen – reaching 2,258 meters. The mountain is a true treasure trove of biological diversity, clean springs, and natural rarities.

A special value is represented by the four glacial lakes, formed thousands of years ago as a result of glacial processes. The largest among them, Podgorechko Lake, is located at around 2,000 meters above sea level and is one of the most significant high-altitude lakes in North Macedonia. Together with the Upper and Lower Labunishka Lokva, they are true natural gems that enrich Jablanica's tourist potential.

Rupicapra MTB Struga says their mission is not only to organize cycling tours but also to promote the natural wealth of the Struga region and raise public awareness for its preservation.

"Through mountain biking, we want to demonstrate that North Macedonia has outstanding natural values that can attract domestic and foreign visitors. But at the same time, everyone who visits the mountain should be aware that it must remain clean and preserved. It is our duty to leave these natural treasures to future generations," the association emphasizes.

At a time when more and more tourists seek authentic experiences in nature, Jablanica has everything required to become a recognizable destination for mountain biking, hiking, mountaineering, and active eco-tourism. Its glacial lakes, high peaks, untouched forests, and mountain pastures represent a natural wealth worthy of greater promotion and care.

Rupicapra MTB Struga will continue organizing such activities in the future so that more people get to know the natural beauties of Jablanica and become part of the shared mission – promotion, protection, and sustainable use of Macedonian mountains.