50+ | Off-piste Development Week | North Macedonia
Off-piste in North Macedonia for those 50+ who want to improve their skiing alongside like-minded people while enjoying the freedom of having the mountain to themselves.
Book nowThis trip is designed for those who want to explore off-piste terrain at a comfortable pace but still love adventure and long descents through untouched snow. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, you’ll be part of a welcoming group and an incredible atmosphere. This experience isn’t just about skiing – it’s about sharing unforgettable moments with others who share your passion for the mountains and off-piste skiing.
It was here, nearly 15 years ago, that our off-piste adventures began. We wanted to find a destination where we could have the mountain for ourselves and carve the first tracks in fresh snow. North Macedonia has no lift systems, meaning we’ll be transported by a snowcat, allowing us to cover vast areas and choose the best conditions every day.
Skiing off-piste is very different from skiing on groomed slopes, and this is trip offers a safe and supportive environment to develop your skills. One of our experienced past guest, who knows both the area and the tour inside out, will guide you – offering tips and techniques to help you gain confidence and improve your off-piste skiing.
Beyond improving your skills, this week is also an opportunity to build new friendships and connect with other skiers and snowboarders who share your enthusiasm. It’s tailored for those who love long descents, a relaxed yet adventurous pace, and of course the thrill of exploring untouched terrain. Together we’ll embrace the beauty of nature – without the crowds.
We’ll be based in the small mountain village of Popova Šapka, offering an authentic experience of North Macedonian culture. Our hotel is simple but full of charm and with a warm atmosphere that makes every stay special. And in 2020, a spa area with a pool, sauna and massage services was added – perfect for unwinding after a day in the mountains!
Ready to take your off-piste skiing to the next level?
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Full pension
Hotel 5 nights
4 days catski with our mountain guide
Teaching of a Danish instructor
Safety equipment (beeper, sond, showel)
Access to outdoor spa and sauna
> 2400 altitude meters on average per day
Skiing in a completely deserted off-piste area
Transfer to / from Skopje airport
Farewell dinner in Skopje
10€ per day for the preservation of their national park
Member of The Travel Guarantee Fund (Rejsegarantifonden)
Best price guarantee
Airline tickets
Insurance
Private room (add on)
Avalanche backpack (add on)
Arrival day:
- Our driver will be waiting for you att Skopje Airport (SKP), ready to take you to Popova Šapka. Look for the sign that says De Brede Planker or Eskimo Freeride. The transfer takes approximately two hours by car, and you will be picked up according to the arrival and departure times you have emailed us beforehand.
- Upon arrival at the hotel, you can check in and take advantage of the spa area to unwind after your journey.
- Safety briefing – in case of late arrival it will be held in the following morning.
- Dinner is served at 19.00
Days in The Mountain
- Breakfast is served between 07.00 and 09.00
- Between 09.00 and 09.15 we head out with our cat.
- We spend the entire day skiing off-piste, including a mountain lunch. If the weather is bad we can take shelter in cabins scattered around the mountain. During the first run, we also go through an avalanche transceiver training session.
- We return to the hotel somewhere between 16.00 and 17.00
- The bar will be open, and there’s always a great atmosphere before dinner. Of course, you can also relax in the pool and sauna.
- Dinner is served at 19.00
Departure Day from the Mountain
- Breakfast is served between 07.00 and 09.00
- Between 09.00 and 09.15 we head out with our cat.
- We spend the entire day skiing off-piste, including a mountain lunch. If the weather is bad we can take shelter in cabins scattered around the mountain.
- We return to the hotel somewhere between 16.00 and 17.00. You will have the opportunity to shower before departure.
- 18.00 our transfer will pick you up and take you to a comfortable hotel in the heart of Skopje.
- After a quick check-in the transfer will continue to a restaurant where you’ll enjoy a goodbye-dinner together.
- Of course, you’ll be driven back to the hotel after the dinner.
Departure Day:
- Breakfast is served between 07.00 and 10.00 at the hotel.
- Your transfer is schedule to ensure you have plenty of time at the airport (based on the departure time you have provided).
- If you have some extra time, you’re in the heart of the city, with the river just around the corner and some of Skopje’s famous bridges nearby. A 10-minutes walk will also take you to the Turkish Quarter and its bazaar.
We say goodbye and thank you for an amazing trip!
We live in a small town in the valley under very “North Macedonian conditions” – the hotel is not flashy, but it is a cultural experience like no other and the atmosphere is great.
The mountain range we are in is called Shar Planina. It covers an area of 1,600 square kilometers, with the highest peak being 2,747 meters above sea level. The tree line is at an altitude of 1,700 meters, which gives several different conditions. At the top there is a large open area, after which gradually more trees come as you go down to the bottom. The first 1,000 meters are completely without trees. The area below the tree line offers good opportunities to ski between the trees, which is also an advantage if the weather is foggy. The advantage of this is that the trees provide a contrast so you can navigate by them.
The Shar Planina mountain range is described as old in relation to, for example, the Alps. The combination of time, weather and wind has “worn” the mountain range, it has made the mountains more oval than many other mountain ranges. This means that there are many different slopes for all levels. This means that no matter what peak you are on, you will always be able to choose whether you want a steep and challenging slope or a more flat and easier slope.
In North Macedonia, the avalanche danger is generally lower than in the Alps and many other mountain ranges. This is partly due to the oval shape of the mountains and partly to the surface. Opposite the Alps, the surface consists mainly of grass, which better “holds” the snow, so it is more difficult to slide.
Regardless of your level, Shar Planina in North Macedonia will be the right off-piste playground for you.
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In North Macedonia, you’ll stay in the small town of Popova Sapka, located about a two-hour drive from Skopje. Your accommodation will be at one of the hotels listed below, all conveniently situated next to each other.
These hotels are classified as three-star hotels in North Macedonia. Guests have free access to the spa/sauna, so don’t forget to pack your swimwear!
– Hotel Arena Tekets: This is where the spa facilities are located, but you’re welcome to use them even if you stay at one of the other hotels.
– Hotel Bora Bora
– Hotel Patrol Lodge
All accommodations offer shared rooms with single beds, accommodating up to four people per room. You’ll typically be grouped with the people you’re traveling with. Each room has its own bathroom and shower.
If you prefer, you can upgrade to a room with a double bed or opt for a private room at an additional cost.
Inspiration for our activity trips elsewhere in the world:
All Trips
8 September 2020
Super nice trip with equal skiers.
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