Ohrid Ultra-Trail

Ohrid Ultra-Trail takes runners into Galicica National Park, the mountain ridge that separates Lake Ohrid from Lake Prespa in the south-west of North Macedonia, close to the borders with Albania and Greece. The longest race sets off from the old town of Ohrid at night and loops around the park, with dawn arriving on the high ground above both lakes.

The setting carries a lot of history. Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, has been a UNESCO World Heritage area since 1979, and the trails cross old trenches and remains of the First World War Eastern Front. The park is home to the Balkan lynx, bears and wolves, and the organisers describe its paths as wild and little travelled, which matches the technical, high-mountain character of the longer courses.

The event is run by TREX, a Macedonian association that promotes mountain running and outdoor adventure. Races follow ITRA safety guidelines and the ITRA Green Commitment, finishers enter the UTMB Index, and the weekend spans everything from a demanding night ultra for experienced runners to short trails and a junior race.