In the heart of the magnificent Šar Mountain range lies the enchanting Leshnica Valley, a natural wonderland characterized by its alpine landscapes and breathtaking views. Nestled between the high peaks of Middle Stone and Platte, this pristine valley invites adventurers and nature enthusiasts to explore its green meadows, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls.
Exploring Leshnica Valley
Dolna Leshnica offers a magical landscape where rugged rocks give way to lush pastures and ancient beech forests. The valley is rich in diverse flora and fauna, with elusive blueberries, raspberries, and vibrant wildflowers lining the valley floor. Each step in this serene environment reveals new wonders waiting to be discovered.
The Krivoshijska River, a crystal-clear tributary, winds its way through the valley, carving a path through rocky gorges and green meadows. One of the highlights is the Krivoshijski Waterfall, where cascading waters form crystal-clear pools, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Rich History and Cultural Heritage
Beyond its natural beauty, Dolna Leshnica is steeped in rich history and cultural heritage. Ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life in the quaint villages nestled among the mountains. Visitors can experience warm hospitality and authentic Macedonian cuisine, offering a deeper connection to the local culture.
Journey to Dolna Leshnica
Our journey begins in the village of Bozovce, located on the slopes of Šar Mountain. Although the road from Skopje to Bozovce is not perfectly paved, it does not deter explorers from visiting this beautiful part of Macedonia. The route passes through Tetovo, Popova Shapka, and several villages including Gajre, Shipkovica, Brodec, and Veshala, before arriving at Bozovce.
Bozovce is characterized by narrow and steep streets, so visitors should be mindful of where they park, especially if driving a passenger vehicle. From the upper fountain in Bozovce, two parallel paths lead to Leshnica: the northern and southern paths. The northern path, recommended for its beautiful views of the surrounding peaks, is ideal for the journey to Leshnica. The southern path, used for the return trip, passes through village alleys, providing an opportunity to interact with the local population.
Hiking to Dolna Leshnica
Starting from the upper fountain in Bozovce, the journey follows a dirt road for 3.5 kilometers before splitting onto a hiking trail. The trail winds through an evergreen forest, dotted with springs and streams feeding into the Pena River. After 6 kilometers, hikers reach Dolna Leshnica, where the northern and southern paths converge. This magical place is where the Leshnicka and Krivoshijska rivers merge to form the Pena River.
Continuing to Krivoshijski Waterfall
From Dolna Leshnica, a well-marked path leads south towards the Krivoshijski Waterfall (Dolno Tskalo). About 500 meters from Dolna Leshnica, the path allows hikers to avoid crossing the Krivoshijska River if it is high. Another kilometer further, the first cascade of the Krivoshijski Waterfall can be found, though the approach can be difficult and risky. A few hundred meters beyond is the second cascade, which is larger and more accessible. Due to limited time, our exploration ended here, but we plan to return in the summer to visit the Upper Krivoshijski Waterfall (Gorno Tskalo) and the Krivoshij Lake.
Conclusion
Dolna Leshnica offers a sanctuary for the soul, blending stunning natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, visitors can immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of this hidden gem. Join us in our next video as we explore another beautiful natural destination in North Macedonia.