Canyon Matka Hotel & Restaurant - Four nights
Stunning scenery and location, a beautiful quaint hotel that exceeds your expectations in Matka Canyon, Macedonia.
The Canyon Matka Hotel is very cosy. Located in the heart of the gorge, it makes you feel instantly at peace, surrounded by the lake and nature.
The rooms are spotless, and be sure to book one facing the lake to enjoy the magic views of the canyon. A pleasant surprise was that you received a complimentary bottle of wine during your stay.
The restaurant and bar are full of views, and all tables have the same magical views. You truly feel you are in a private oasis, and it is very tranquil.
The food was exceptional. We really enjoyed the crisp, fresh salads, and the meat and fish dishes were mouthwatering. After four days, we dined a few times and were equally impressed with every dish. The menu was extensive, and desserts were also a treat; portions were plentiful.
We enjoyed a few cocktails on the terrace, soaking up the views, and they were made to perfection. It was also a busy spot for day-trippers, following their experiences in the canyon.
A big thank you to Dejan for his high level of service; he was very attentive and warm. Most staff have been with the hotel for a long time and make you feel welcome; they exude energy and friendliness. Alexander, the manager, was an absolute delight to spend time with, too.
If you are an early riser, it's worth noting breakfast starts at 9 am. They have a range of choices; the bacon and eggs baked with cheese were delicious, fresh juices were available, and the coffee was excellent.
A boat trip with Almata Prima Kayak Rental And Boat Tours, located next to the hotel, is well worth doing; it was magical. You also visit a cave, which is only one hour for the trip, and it is very affordable on a luxury pontoon at 500 denar - €8 each (usually 750).
Another fun activity is to kayak through the canyon, ideally during the morning if you want to avoid the tourists; it is a popular destination. If you are a fan of hiking, there is no shortage of treks.
A fellow guest from the US who we became friends with has stayed in this gorgeous hotel for five weeks, a true testament to the hotel's friendly staff.
The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from the car park via a cobblestoned trail, but the hotel will ensure your luggage is transported; we loved the simplicity and the experience.
The canyon, a short 25 minutes from Skopje, Macedonia's capital city, is a true treasure; I recommend staying for a few nights to enjoy the atmosphere and nature truly.