There are many mountain peaks in Pelister National Park higher than 2000 meters of which Pelister /2601 meters/ is the highest. Two stunning glacial lakes of the Pelister National Park, the Big and the Small Lake are especially attractive and called the Pelister Mountainous Eyes. The Big Lake lies at the altitude of 2218 meters which is one of the highest lakes of Macedonia. Flora and fauna of Pelister National Park are rich and diverse with lots of endemic plants and wild animals. The most important amongst the floral species of Pelister National Park is the molika pine /Pinus peuce/, the autochthonous species of the pine from the tertiary age which can live up to 300 years.

The village of Brajchino is situated 6 km from Lake Prespa in a valley of the foot of Baba Mountain, on the edge of Pelister's National Park and represents the center of ecotourism of Prespa region. This authentic Macedonian village has maintained its traditional character and an intimate link with its surroundings, which emphasized its "eco" label and had made it became part of the tourist map of the world. Brajchino is a mountain village (at an altitude of about 1000 m above sea level) disturbed only by the roaring sound of the local river and by the evening winds rustling through the trees. It features richness of sparkling springs, dewy and green forests, breathtaking mountain peaks, apples grown at the altitude higher than 1000 meters and outstandingly flavorful strawberries matured at the end of summer. Occasionally you may hear a dog barking, a cock crowing or a cow-bell ringing. The village has about 150 inhabitants and 100 houses. Cattle breeding was a main activity in the past, but has been replaced by agriculture, especially fruit growing. Many families from Brajchino, emigrated to Canada, U.S.A, Australia, and the Scandinavian countries in the middle of the 20th century.

Hidden in the foot of Baba Mountain, while freshened by the clear breeze coming from Pelister Mountain from one side and bathed by benefiting Prespa sun, this village of authentic architecture and warm locals /of those who remained here, since majority had left to overseas countries/ is unique and memorable in terms of its location and natural ambiance. Those benefits are recognized by number of tourists from all over the world who come here to learn "the synthesis of men and culture and nature" while enjoying numerous privileges of small and serene community, where hosts take care of visitors as their own family. Direct contact with the local people and their hospitality makes your stay in Brajchino a unique experience. The people of Brajchino still produce a variety of food for themselves or to sell at the market place: garden vegetables; meat and dairy products from their livestock; honey; apples from their orchards; mushrooms, herbs, and berries from the forest; and fish from the river and from Lake Prespa.

Brajchino is a perfect location for combining outdoor activities on the mountain with the leisure of the lake. The Mountain Nature Trail is the main natural attraction, leading from the village of Brajchino to Golemo Ezero (glacial "Big Lake"). The trail links the Lake Prespa region with the National Park of Pelister and provides breathtaking views, magnificent landscapes and rare species. Hiking time takes approximately 5 -7 hours and mountain guides are a must for hikers not familiar with the region. They will also enhance your experience in the mountains with their knowledge of local wildlife which includes bears, wolves, boars, etc.

Macedonia Mountaineering and Trekking

Taste of Macedonia