Shar-Korab-Koritnik Region

Discovering natural and cultural heritage along the Balkan Green Belt

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© Toni Stojanovski

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This brochure aims to highlight the diverse tourism opportunities within the Shar-Korab-Koritnik region in the Western Balkans.

Join us in discovering a hidden corner of Europe known for extraordinary nature, rich history and hospitality. Immerse yourself in hiking and cycling, traditional architecture, tasting of centuries old recipes, winter sports, and a variety of activities to discover scenic diversity and natural treasures.

This product was prepared in the framework of the project Sustainable Future for Shar-Korab-Koritnik with financial support by the German Federal Environment Foundation (DBU) and Aage V. Jensen Charity Foundation.

Author: Stephanie Gentle, Project Manager for the "Sustainable Future for Shar-Korab-Koritnik" project Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA) Contributors: Arben Mehmeti, Ardita Dinaj, Arta Starova, Blerta Avdia, Bukurosh Onuzi, Frosina Pandurska-Dramikjanin, Hajrush Kurtaj, High Scardus Trail Organization/Trail Angels, Kontura LTD, Nebi Bardhoshi, Sandra Wigger, Spase Shumka, Xhevahir Docaj Design: Ministry of Communication Front cover: Ljuboten Mountain by Toni Stojanovski Back cover: Morning Stone, Shishtavec by Pedaling Pictures September 2023

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Glacial Lake of Livadica

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In 1908, Edith Durham, an English traveler, writer, and anthropologist visited the area and wrote:

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I think no place where human beings live has given me such an impression of majestic isolation from the entire world. It is a spot where the centuries shrivel; the river might be the world’s well-spring, its banks the fit home of elemental instincts–passions that are red and rapid.

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© Toni Stojanovski

Winter view of Tito’s Peak, the highest summit in the Shar Mountain Range along the border between North Macedonia and Kosovo.

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CONTENTS GETTING FAMILIAR WITH THE REGION

08 - 09

NATURE TOURISM

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MOUNTAIN & SPORTS TOURISM

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CULTURAL & RELIGIOUS TOURISM

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RURAL TOURISM

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FOOD EXPERIENCES

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© Toni Stojanovski

GETTING FAMILIAR WITH THE REGION The Shar-Korab-Koritnik region is positioned in the center of the Balkan Peninsula. It spans the northwestern part of North Macedonia, southern Kosovo, and northeastern Albania. This transboundary protected area covers a total of 2,400 square kilometers and is composed of three national parks: Sharr Mountains National Park in Kosovo (since 1986), Korab-Koritnik Nature Park in Albania (since 2011), and Shar Mountain National Park in North Macedonia (since 2021), including the neighboring Mavrovo National Park which integrates areas of ecological importance.

Despite its size, this region remains largely unknown to visitors. Yet it offers incredible habitat and species diversity, numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, as well as spectacular cultural heritage. While the special qualities of these mountain landscapes are treasured by its local inhabitants, they are not widely recognized as a way to promote tourism and improve the livelihoods of the local communities that are often isolated. This booklet aims to highlight the natural, cultural and touristic values within the Shar-Korab-Koritnik region, one of the pearls of the European Green Belt.

Pristina

Kosovo

Sharri National Park Prizren

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Korab-Koritnik Nature Park

Skopje

Shar Mountain National Park Gostivar

Peshkopi

Mavrovo National Park

Albania

North Macedonia

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FROM IRON CURTAIN TO EUROPEAN GREEN BELT Until as recently as 1990, the Iron Curtain divided Europe into two parts. The countries of Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo were divided into different fronts, creating a restricted area in the Shar-Korab-Koritnik area. It was marked by barbed wire, watchtowers, and fear of attacks. Memories of soldiers and the threat from the other side still linger among locals.

Following the end of the Cold War, protected areas were designated along the former Iron Curtain, which is known today as the European Green Belt. This extraordinary network runs along more than 12,500 km and connects high-value natural and cultural landscapes of 24 countries. The Balkan Green Belt forms its southernmost part.

Today, the European Green Belt encompasses diverse habitats that have remained largely undisturbed due to their remote location and limited human intervention. The European Green Belt initiative focuses on promoting sustainable development by balancing human activities and nature, as well as creating socio-economic opportunities for local communities. It symbolizes a united, pan-European cooperation.

MORE INFORMATION AT: http://www.europeangreenbelt.org/ WWW.EUROPEANGREENBELT.ORG

© Azem Ramadani 9

NATURE TOURISM The Shar-Korab-Koritnik region is home to two mountain ranges: the Shar Mountains and the Korab Mountains. These mountain ranges are characterized by steep rocky peaks on their northern side and gentler southern slopes. Their slopes are home to vast grasslands, pastures and forests, including ancient stands of endemic Macedonian and Bosnian pine.

The alpine landscape of these mountains is considered one of the most important in Southeast Europe, and it is renowned for its incredibly diverse range of habitats.

© Sa ndra Wigger

There are numerous summits over 2,000 meters above sea level, including 22 peaks over 2,500 meters. At 2,764 meters above sea level, Mount Korab is the highest mountain in the region. It is located at the border of Albania and North Macedonia and represents the highest peak of both countries. Tito’s Peak is the highest summit of the Shar Mountains, peaking at 2,747 meters.

MOUNT KORAB

TITO’S PEAK

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Being part of the Drin River Basin, the vast river network of rivers and streams is the lifeblood of the region.

The main rivers are the Drin, Lepenci, and the Lumbardhi/Bistrica and their branches are the river Luma, Bushtrica, Manastirica, Korisha, Lubisha, Jaglenc, Toplluga, Kepuza and Vermica.

The Shar and Korab-Koritnik mountains are especially known for their alpine and glacial lakes, with 39 of them located at altitudes between 1,936 and 2,340 meters.

Skakalicko (2,340 m), Dobroshko (2,340 m and 2,300 m), Belo (2,280), Krivoshijsko (2,250 m), and Livadica (2,173 m) are some of the most well-known. All the lakes are attractive for mountaineers and tourists.

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BLACK LAKE, SHAR MOUNTAIN

© Toni Stojanovski

BLACK LAKE, RADOMIRE

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BOGOVINJE LAKE, SHAR MOUNTAIN

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The Korab mountain range forms a frontier between North Macedonia (left view) and Albania (right view). The ridge trail in the photo leads to Mount Korab’s summit, the highest peak in both countries.

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FAUNA The Shar and Korab-Koritnik Massif area is a biodiversity hotspot. This group of mountains offers an excellent environment for diverse wildlife due to its vast size and diverse terrain, which includes unfragmented forest areas, glacial lakes, alpine slopes, grasslands, and numerous mountain streams. Notably, around 150 species found here are rare and endemic.

Over 50 mammal species can be found in this region, including the Dinaric-Pindos brown bear, Balkan chamois, Eurasian wolf, and the critically endangered Balkan lynx. These large mammals need expansive habitats to survive, and they benefit from the protection and passage the mountains provide. Other species in the area are the European wildcat, Eurasian badger, Eurasian otter, European pine marten, red fox, roe deer, and wild boar, many of which are rare and endangered species of global importance.

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AT LEAST 50 MAMMAL SPECIES ARE FOUND IN THE TRANSBOUNDARY REGION OF SHAR-KORAB-KORITNIK AND MAVROVO MOUNTAIN AREAS.

There are many different bird species, such as the golden eagle, griffon vulture, peregrine falcon, northern hobby, rock partridge, eagle owl, alpine accentor, wallcreeper, alpine chough, red-billed chough, and whitewinged snow finch. Some of these species live permanently in the region whereas others migrate through. This area is also home to seventeen species of reptiles and twelve species of amphibians, such as the Juniper skink, European viper, and Balkan stream frog.

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OVER 125 NESTING BIRD SPECIES

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Over twenty-five fish species have been recorded, with the Ohrid spirlin and the Skadar gudgeon being of particular conservation interest. The invertebrate species in this region are also diverse. Many can be found living along stream sides, in limestone cliffs, and in shallow subterranean habitats and caves.

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17 REPTILE SPECIES

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12 AMPHIBIAN SPECIES

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MANY INVERTEBRATE SPECIES © Toni Stojanovski

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FLORA

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The Drin River Basin’s mix of continental and Mediterranean climate provides the ideal environment for many species, especially vascular plants. The Shar-Korab-Koritnik mountain range is home to over 2,000 species of vascular plants, many of which are endemic, rare or endangered. Mountain flushes and stream sides are particularly important, as they are home to many local endemic species. In total, more than 150 plant species are unique to this small mountain region.

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The Plane Tree is one of the most important natural historical monuments in Prizren. Located on the edge of the Bistrica River, the tree dates to the 14th century.

© Stephanie Gentle

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MEDICINAL AROMATIC PLANTS People living in Kosovo, North Macedonia and Albania have a long tradition of collecting and cultivating wild plants.

This region is known for producing high-quality teas and spices, and it is an important activity and source of revenue for many rural families.

Some of the most popular products include blueberry (bilberry), great yellow gentian, juniper, nettle, dog rose, hawthorn fruit, wild apple, wild strawberry, thyme, cowslip, elder, chamomile, mint, oregano, marshmallow, leek, cornflower, marigold, sage, St. John's wort, yarrow, mountain tea, and red bearberry.

In this region, it is common to use a plant’s fruits, leaves, bark, roots, seeds or flowers for their therapeutic benefits and specific medicinal properties. They have been used for centuries to fulfill nutritional and healthcare needs. The activity of collecting and cultivating medicinal plants is an important part of the rural lifestyle.

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The collection of Non-Wood Forestry Products and the cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants has a special economic importance, as it provides income to residents in deep rural areas and prevents the migration of youth from Shar-Korab-Koritinik. To preserve biodiversity and sustainable development, the cultivation of Medicinal Aromatic Plants has also started in Shar-Korab-Koritinik.

– Arben Mehmeti, Professor at the University of Pristina

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© Hajrush Kurtaj

WILD BLUEBERRIES The Shar-Korab-Koritnik region is known for blueberries, often called 'bilberries'. These wild blueberries are smaller but richer in some antioxidants.

Abundant in the fields and valleys of this mountainous region, they are collected for local use and export, and valued for immune-boosting and medicinal properties.

The blueberry harvest benefits the regional economy. However, unregulated collection has caused the number of wild blueberry plants to decline. To preserve them, it is important to avoid damaging branches and control cultivation so that the natural habitat of these delicious fruits stays intact.

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MOUNTAIN AND SPORTS TOURISM

The Shar and Korab-Koritnik mountain ranges offer a blend of stunning landscapes and activities, perfect for a relaxing or adventurous getaway.

The national parks offer more than just incredible wildlife; they provide a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking and biking trails wind through the region, catering to various skill levels and offering options from short walks in picturesque villages to multi-day hikes for avid trekkers. Visitors can also enjoy activities like birdwatching, trail running, camping, kayaking, skiing, and winter hiking, as well as partake in thrilling adventures such as mountain biking, paragliding, and rock climbing. Whether you prefer to explore independently, hire a guide for a personalized itinerary, or join a fully supported tour, the region's breathtaking natural beauty serves as the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable outdoor adventure year-round.

© Toni Stojanovski

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© Besart Halilaj

Whether you are seeking an energizing trek or a peaceful nature retreat, the mountains, pastures, lakes, waterfalls, wide-open spaces, and amazing landscapes offer scenic routes and activities that will surely satisfy any outdoor enthusiast.

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HIGH SCARDUS TRAIL The High Scardus Trail is an award-winning initiative to promote sustainable mountain tourism in the remote rural border regions of Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo by launching a long-distance hiking trail.

- High Scardus Trail Organization/Trail Angels Much of the trail crosses the Shar and Korab-Koritnik mountain ranges. Some parts of the trail have for many years been home to only villagers or shepherds and their flocks. It is still relatively unknown and one of the least visited hiking trails in Europe.

Along the route, hikers can climb the highest peak of Albania and North Macedonia and see an abundance of glacial lakes, mountain springs, old sheepfolds, and rustic villages.

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The beauty of the High Scardus Trail stage, as you cross Mount Korab from North Macedonia to Albania, is outstanding. The alpine route takes you through a diverse landscape including expansive mountainous terrain, rocky stretches, and soft meadows with shepherd huts scattered throughout. Upon descent, you will be welcomed by the charming mountain village of Radomire.

The High Scardus Trail passes through six national parks, including two in North Macedonia, one in Kosovo, and three in Albania. Currently sophisticated services and a booking center will be implemented in a joint project of German GIZ and the Austrian sustainable tourism experts Trail Angels in close cooperation with local experts to provide access to the international hiking community.

- High Scardus Trail Organization/Trail Angels © Matthew Nelson 20

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When people plan to travel for their first time to this region and its peripheries, often they have the feeling they are travelling to a distant world made of legends, a place where the present and the past mingle intensively fenced by breathtaking highlands, prominent peaks and endless pastures.

If you want to see a different Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia—one far away from big noisy cities that knows how to safeguard its old customs and traditions—this region is the right choice.

- Bukurosh Onuzi, Tourism Expert

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© Azem Ramadani

Descending Mount Korab, with Mavrovo National Park and Mavrovo Lake in the distance.

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Hiking the High Scardus Trail helped me to understand how the geography, history and culture of this region are connected. A highlight was the interactions with the shepherds along the trail and getting a glimpse into their authentic traditional lifestyle.

- Stephanie Gentle, PPNEA

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Radomire and the Black Lake, Albania

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Ceripashina, Popova Sapka in North Macedonia

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© Toni Stojanovski

WINTER ACTIVITIES While spring and summer attract numerous visitors to the Shar-Korab-Koritnik region, its potential for winter tourism is equally remarkable.

When winter covers the area in snow, it becomes a truly unique destination. An extensive network of hiking trails, frozen lakes, and a ski season that spans around 120 days offers abundant opportunities for outdoor adventures and peaceful relaxation.

For winter hiking enthusiasts, the forest treks and climbs to the highest peaks provide a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views, making it an ideal choice for reconnecting with nature.

Small towns and villages become enchanting destinations offering beauty, warm hospitality, and adventure during the winter season.

Well-established winter tourism hubs in the region include Brezovica in Kosovo, Popova Sapka in North Macedonia, and Shishtavec in Albania. A wide selection of guesthouses, mountain huts, and authentic restaurants cater to different preferences and tastes.

© Toni Stojanovski

The High Scardus Trail in Macedonia features the country's first mountain hut, "Ljuboten." It serves as a traditional refuge, perfect for resting, getting to know Macedonian hut life, and enjoying a fantastic view of the Tetovo lowlands. The site is also an ideal spot to recharge before tackling the more challenging stages of the High Scardus Trail.

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© Toni Stojanovski

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CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS TOURISM The Shar-Korab-Koritnik region is steeped in centuries of history and culture.

Throughout the centuries, when lowland and urban areas were occupied by empires such as the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, these impenetrable mountains were areas of relative freedom and political autonomy. The markets of cities and villages at the foot of the mountains—such as Tetovo, Prizren, and Shishtavec—have long served as an area of exchange between the mountain, fields, city and empire.

Catholicism, Christian Orthodoxy, and Islam blended different traditions in the region. The interrelationship of different ethnic groups and peoples of Albanian, Gorani, Macedonian, Serbian, and Turkish origin enriches the diversity of traditions and customs.

Mosques and hammams from the Ottoman period, and Orthodox churches of great architectural and artistic value dot the landscape. Many religious monuments also serve as national cultural monuments. Elements from the pre-Christian calendar also remain. Special festivals, rites, rituals, and social customs that honor the sun, mountain, water, and fire are still celebrated in some villages, preserving a fascinating and timeless culture.

PRIZREN CITYSCAPE

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© Besart Halilaj

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© PPNEA/SKK

A new tourism wave within the Shar-Korab-Koritnik area is giving rise to a flourishing cultural tourism scene.

Residents take an interest in preserving their food culture and local heritage to offer as part of the tourist experience.

The Albanian government's "100 tourist villages" initiative, which includes several villages within the Korab-Koritnik Nature Park and along the High Scardus Trail, exemplifies this trend.

© Azem Ramadani

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In this region, a significant cultural connection exists among many inhabitants who primarily engage in animal husbandry and agriculture. Their lives revolve around a shared economic and social cycle, which is based on an ancient calendar with pagan origins. This pre-Christian calendar forms the basis for their agricultural and livestock activities, deeply intertwining their lives with nature.

- Nebi Bardhoshi, Cultural Heritage Expert

Following are some holidays offering a unique glimpse into the region's deep-rooted traditions and harmonious connection with nature.

SUMMER DAY: Celebrated in March, Summer Day signifies the end of winter and the rebirth of nature. Traditional cooking of flija in the Sharr and Koritnik Mountains is customary. Intriguing rituals surround hair-cutting, with young girls (and boys in some villages) trimming their hair symbolically. Hair is thrown into rivers while expressing prayers for health and cleansing, accompanied by other rituals like tying pegs to trees and tying of bracelets with symbolic threads.

SHENGJERGJI (ST GEORGE DAY): Held on May 5th and 6th, this holiday celebrates the joy of emerging from winter. It marks the taking of cattle and sheep up to summer pastures in the mountains and the beginning of the agricultural cycle. Observe rituals performed by young girls, including hair-cutting, flower-collecting, and gathering of herbs to feed to the cattle. Immerse yourself in spirited horse races and traditional dances, where the captivating bachelor dance taking center stage in the picturesque village of Shishtavec.

BUZMI: In September, or in some villages at the end of August, the Buzmi festival marks the entry into winter. Some villages, especially those at the foot of Sharr Mountain near Tetovo, have ritualistic practices related to marriage, involving specific bread cooking, ritualistic eating, and prophetic dreams. The festival is accompanied by songs, dances, and rituals that symbolize the "auspicious sun" and the beginning of winter.

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Interior of the Rufai Tekke in Prizren, Kosovo

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RURAL TOURISM The Shar-Korab-Koritnik region consists of mainly rural areas. This large expanse of rugged and generally inaccessible terrain, which provided refuge for communities and allowed their distinctive identity to remain intact throughout the centuries, is situated in a part of the Balkans now known to be experiencing some of the lowest socio-economic levels in Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia.

Communities historically sustained themselves through pastoralism, agriculture, beekeeping, nut harvesting and gathering wild plants. Although there have been changes in the economic and industrial systems in recent decades, these traditional activities remain an important source of income to supplement rural livelihoods.

Diverse natural and cultural treasures are thoughtfully preserved through traditions, customs, and rituals. In recent years, activities such as hiking, camping and being in nature have gained popularity. These experiences are enhanced by unique museums, immersive attractions and guesthouses offering authentic local food and exceptional hospitality. As a result, tourism now significantly contributes to rural development.

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TRADITIONAL SHEPHERDING Shepherding is a traditional activity that remains an important part of this region's culture.

For hundreds of years, rural communities have relied on sheep and goats for food and other resources. The animals are moved seasonally between different grazing grounds, following the availability of food—in the summer they graze in mountains, while in winter they graze in lower valleys. This seasonal movement of livestock serves as the basis for rural traditions and lifestyles.

The traditional sheep breeds in this region are the Ruda and Sharplaninian sheep. These sheep are hardy and able to travel long distances; they are suited to the geography and climate of the mountains. Shepherds use them to produce meat, milk, milk products, and wool.

© Toni Stojanovski

Alongside every shepherd’s flock are their trusty companions—the sheep dogs. The Shar Mountain Dog, also known as the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, is the preferred choice of sheep dog in the Shar-Korab-Koritnik mountains.

These dogs serve two purposes: they protect the livestock from wild animals, and they help guide the flock to pastures.

© Arta Starova

Hikers should stay away from shepherd flocks. Sheep dogs are very large and may be aggressive. If encountered, remain still and make loud noises until the shepherd arrives (they are usually nearby). If the shepherd cannot be located, then move away slowly and calmly, avoiding sudden movements, as this can trigger aggression from the sheep dog.

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TRADITIONAL CHEESEMAKING

Cheese-making is another traditional activity that distinguishes Southeastern Europe. The Balkan region is renowned for its distinctive local cheeses.

White shepherd's cheese, known as djathë i bardhë in Albanian and belo sirenje in Macedonian, is a staple in this region. This salt brine cheese has a tangy and salty flavor and a crumbly texture. It is made from sheep's milk and is a common shepherding product. The grass and medicinal herbs give it a unique taste. Shepherd's cheese is a popular food item across the mountain range, and it is a tradition for many households. It is also an important part of the traditional nutrition for villagers in the region.

Shepherding families in the Shar-KorabKoritnik region make cheese in a traditional way. The cheese is usually made in the summer huts by a cheesemaker. Each summer hut has its own cheese production room and storage unit, which are both kept at 5-10 degrees Celsius to ensure that the cheese ages properly and is well preserved.

© Toni Stojanovski

© Toni Stojanovski

In addition to white cheese, a variety of other cheeses, sour cream, butter, and yogurt are also produced. These milk products are then sold locally to restaurants, food stores, and directly at the farm.

You can find more information on Traditional Shepherding and Traditional Cheesemaking here: Traditional Shepherding in the Sharr / Korab-Koritnik Mountain Range

https:/ issuu.com/euronatur/docs/booklet_shepherding_en_web_final_27.01.2021

© Shukri Murtezani 32

AGRITOURISM The rise of rural tourism is driving a resurgence in community-based initiatives that promote ecologically sustainable development and the preservation of traditional cultures. By connecting travelers with local people and their products, this form of tourism is creating opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and harmony with nature. The younger generations especially are increasingly investing in diverse touristic offerings and making it more accessible to experience agricultural tourism. In this way, local people can earn supplementary income and it gives a renewed motivation to remain in the area.

Agritourism offers a range of services like accommodations, meals, and activities such as horseback riding and hiking. Guests can participate in farm work, learn to prepare regional dishes, or just unwind in the rural landscape.

This type of holiday provides a chance to fully experience the rural lifestyle, with its diverse colors, sounds, flavors, and opportunities to relax.

Agricultural projects are typically family-run and offer programs that are attractive for both children and adults.

The hosts' commitment to preserving cultural heritage and extending hospitality is important and contributes to the authentic and enriching experience.

© Agro-Eko Dibra

© Toni Stojanovski

© Azem Ramadani

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© Agro-Eko Dibra

TASTES OF THE REGION

© Azem Ramadani

In addition to its abundant natural and cultural treasures, the Shar-Korab-Koritnik region has a vibrant culinary heritage. This area is renowned for its fusion of Balkan and Mediterranean flavors, reflecting the influences of Albanian, Greek, Italian, Macedonian, Serbian, and Turkish cooking traditions. The Shar-Korab-Koritnik region prides itself on an abundance of traditional agricultural products and distinct delicacies that showcase the local agriculture and culture. Many products are produced, preserved, and processed according to traditional methods, offering tastes that are truly exclusive to this region.

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Following is a list of some of the region’s most well-known products and specialties.

SALADS Makedonska salad – a combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, ground sheep's cheese, onions, and fresh or roasted peppers.

Village salad – (in North Macedonia it is known as Shopska salad) is a green salad topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and sheep's cheese.

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SOUPS AND STEWS Tafçe gravçen – local beans boiled in an earthen pot; this food is characteristic of Tetovo and a favorite dish during the winter season.

Gora soup – typical of the region of Gora, this soup consists of chicken breast, flour fried with a little oil, rice, thinly sliced garlic, salt, pepper and yogurt or buttermilk.

Bey soup – an important soup on Albanian tables, it consists of onions, carrots and garlic seasoned by chicken broth, fried flour, parsley and spices.

© Stephanie Gentle

Paça – a popular and simple dish with an unforgettable taste, Paça consists of meat broth boiled with bones, flour mixed with butter, and seasoned with spices.

FOODS WITH MEAT PRODUCTS Jufka – a traditional pasta seasoned with butter, often served as a casserole with different types of meat.

Pasha Qofte – a popular dish made from ground meat, boiled rice and spices, the meatballs are then coated with a mixture of eggs, sour cream and flour and fried in butter.

Stuffed peppers – the peppers are stuffed with minced meat, onions, garlic and spices, and the baked.

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Sarma with cabbage leaves (or grape leaves) – prepared with meat, rice, eggs, butter, red pepper, vegetables and spices and served with yogurt.

Prizren Casserole – prepared with minced meat, butter, spices and a variety of vegetables in the oven.

Sharri's Pleskavica – similar to kebabs, but differently shaped and are stuffed with cheese.

Dry meat (pasterma) – salt cured meat, which after 40 days is removed and dried.

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FOODS WITH DOUGH PRODUCTS Flija – a stack of layered pancakes traditionally made with a saç and baked slowly over a few hours.

Petë misri – made from corn flour in two layers, and in the middle is placed leek with cottage cheese.

Petulla – similar to donuts, they are prepared by frying porridge dough and often served with cheese, preserves or honey.

Mantia Prizren – cookies prepared from dough, made into noodles and cut into squares, filled with minced meat, finely chopped onion and spices.

Kaçamak – a type of porridge made by cooking cornflour in salted water, and once thickened it is accompanied with melted butter.

SWEETS Sheqerpare – a shortbread cookie prepared with walnuts and almonds.

Ravania – a traditional sponge-syrup cake dessert.

Hallva – a dense pastry prepared across the region made from flour, sugar, water and butter.

Tumbler – a typical dessert made from boiled rice, milk, sugar, vanilla sugar and cinnamon.

Tespishte – a traditional sweets of wheat flour dough, milk, eggs and a little sugar, and topped with sherbet.

DRINKS Raki – a strong alcoholic drink made from fermented fruits such as plums, grapes and blackberries.

Boza – a malt drink made by fermenting various grains Salep – prepared from a powder obtained by crushing the dried roots of the orchid plant Orchis mascula, the powder is mixed with hot water, sugar and orange or rose flavour and results in a rich, hot beverage.

Tea – a wide variety of herbal teas and infusions can be found across the region including mountain tea, blueberry tea, sage tea, and linden.

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Traditional cuisine is the key word during a visit to Shar-Korab-Koritnik, where every restaurant or guesthouse will proudly offer it.

- Blerta Avdia, Tourism Expert

© Stephanie Gentle

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Accommodation and touristic services are continuously improving in the region. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, the following resources can assist with various services.

Sharri Region, Kosovo https://sharriregion.com Shar Planina Region, North Macedonia https://sharplanina.com.mk Mountaineering Club Ljuboten, North Macedonia https://www.facebook.com/sharainfocenter

MOUNTAINEERING CLUB LJUBOTEN INFO CENTER IN TETOVO

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Krivoshija Waterfalls on Shar Mountain, North Macedonia

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© Toni Stojanovski

We thank the following partners who supported with fieldwork and research:

FOREST AND PASTURE USE ASSOCIATION, NOVOSEJ

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This booklet aims to highlight the natural, cultural, and touristic values within the Shar-Korab-Koritnik region, one of the pearls of the European Green Belt.

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© Pedaling Pictures