Dionysus Trail - North Macedonia

Zazi who has been on 4 In The Saddle rides. Like a God in Macedonia ~ The Dionysus trail as it's meant to be | Excellent

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Like a God in Macedonia – the Dionysus Trail as it’s meant to be

Some journeys touch your heart, others touch your soul – and only rarely does one do both. Riding the Dionysus Trail through the breathtaking Tikvesh valley in Macedonia did exactly that. On horseback, with the majestic Klepa Peak as our daily compass, I felt like Dionysus himself: immersed in nature, wine, abundance, and pure joy.

Every day held new wonders. From galloping through endless hills and vineyards to the quiet magic of scenic viewpoints where Klepa Peak always watched over us. It was on that very first day, standing atop the peak, that my heart was captured. Finding it each day from a new perspective became a beautiful ritual.

The landscapes were nothing short of spectacular, but it was the people who made this experience unforgettable. Vasko, our guide, led us with strength, knowledge, and warmth. Ramadan, our backup guide, was a steady presence with a constant smile and helping hand. And then there was George. The soul of the kitchen. What this man creates is not just food—it’s love served on a plate. Every dish was prepared with such care and passion, it became a journey in itself. His meals brought us together, left us speechless, and filled us with happiness again and again.

We visited incredible wineries, each with its own story and hosted by the kindest people. We learned how wine is made and selected, and we were always welcomed like old friends. One of the highlights was visiting a beekeeping farm, where we tasted honeycomb straight from the hive, learned about production, and enjoyed the world’s best breakfast in a dreamlike setting between the vines.

And as if that wasn’t enough, midway through the week we were treated to a gin tasting and BBQ at one of the most beautiful spots imaginable. There, we also learned to make Ajvar—a beloved Macedonian specialty that I now carry with pride (and a bit of craving!) as a memory from these days. Every single moment felt just right. The flavors, the smells, the people, the horses, the land. Everything.

This was my second time in Macedonia, and once again this country stole my heart. The landscapes and the people are so pure and honest, it doesn’t feel like tourism—it feels like coming home.

None of this would’ve been possible without Vasko, Ramadan, and George. Their love for their land, their dedication, and their care for every rider was present in everything. Thanks to them, this was not just a trip, but an experience I will carry with me forever.