Hidden Macedonia

The Mystic Lakes of Ohrid and Prespa
By Chris Deliso

 The tectonic lakes of Macedonia, Ohrid and Prespa, are among the most ancient and enthralling in the world, abundant in rare wildlife and the seat of mediaeval kingdoms, richly endowed with sacred shrines, mysteries and watery legends. In this fascinating account of a circular summertime journey with his wife and young son around the lakeshores, passing through three countries, Greece, Albania and the former Yugoslav republic of Macedonia, the author seeks out the spirit of the lakes, through encounters with fishermen, philosophers, archaeologists and snakes. Getting below the surface of everyday life and also revealing the deep historical wounds and controversies that are still manifest in this divided and much fought-over land, this heartfelt travelogue is also an evocative and amusing chronicle of travels in one of the  most stunning and historically significant areas of Europe, one which, however, still remains largely unknown in the West.

‘There is a quirky charm to this attractively presented book.’

Martin Davis, Times Literary Supplement

The Map found at the front of Hidden Macedonia was kindly supplied by Hidden Europe Magazine, an English language bi-monthly that publishes good writing that aims to evoke the spirit of Europe's diverse landscapes, conjure up a sense of place and probe the curiosities of our continent's diverse cultures. For subscription information click here

Christopher Deliso is an American travel writer and journalist based in Skopje, Macedonia, who has been living in and exploring the Balkans and Mediterranean Europe for almost a decade. He has published numerous travel articles in newspapers and magazines and on websites around the world and also writes for Lonely Planet on the Balkans and Greece. He also directs the Balkan-interest online magazine www.balkanlysis.com. He holds an MPhil with Honours in Byzantine Studies from Oxford University.