Miyak Tribe Trail - North Macedonia

Sara who has been on 2 In The Saddle rides. A wonderful and unique experience! | The riding was mostly at walk as the terrain is very varied encompassing woodland trails, mountain paths, meadows and Steppe-like rolling hills and plateaux, however there were lots of opportunities for quite long canters from gentle canters on woodland paths to exhilarating gallops across expanses of Steppe!
The leader, Vasco and guide Ramadan were well organised and provided clear direction, and the horses were well trained and very well taken care of with equipment checked frequently to avoid chafing and other issues. I was matched with a very small Macedonian mountain horse initially, but I began to find his very short stride uncomfortable on my lower back and hips by the end of the second day, as we completed a long, steep descent of a mountain trail. Vasco the leader suggested I swap onto the guide's horse, a young Arab cross called Vranec, which was taller with a longer stride, I was very grateful as he was an absolute dream, sweet and responsive and a complete pleasure to be partnered with, this is no criticism of the other horse who was a fantastic little guy, lots of fun to ride but just rather short strided.

Do you have any comments about the accommodation and food?

The accommodation was very comfortable and the staff were unfailingly kind and helpful.
Food was magnificent and exceeded expectations in every way! The local produce, fruit and vegetables are produced in a very traditional way which makes them very flavourful. We were served all kinds of regional and international food and offered a variety of Macedonian wines which were very good.

Do you have any other feedback for us?

This was one of the best holidays I have ever had and exceeded expectations in every way! It was a fascinating journey across a changing landscape from valleys, to woodland trails, rugged mountainsides and high steppe-like plateaux.
Vasco, who runs the organisation and guides the rides, plans everything meticulously, and provided a fascinating insight into his Miyak culture and traditions, there were some truly memorable moments shared with my fellow riders.

[Abbie from ITS replies: Many thanks for your super feedback. We are so pleased you enjoyed the Miyak Tribe Trail and look forward to arranging your next adventure!].