The Strumica region in southeastern North Macedonia hides two of the country's most impressive waterfalls: Koleshino (15 metres) and Smolare (39 metres). Both sit in dense beech forest on the slopes of Belasica Mountain, less than 15 km from the town of Strumica. Yet they receive a fraction of the visitors that Ohrid or Mavrovo attract — if you want nature without crowds, this is the place.
Getting There by Car
From Skopje (2.5 hours)
Take the A1 motorway south toward Gevgelija/Thessaloniki. Exit at Valandovo and continue east on the regional road through Valandovo to Strumica (30 km from the motorway). Total distance: approximately 175 km.
Alternative route: Take the A1 south, exit at Negotino, drive east through Radovish to Strumica. Slightly longer (200 km) but passes through Tikves wine region — good for a combined trip.
From Strumica to the Waterfalls
Koleshino Waterfall: 16 km southeast of Strumica. Follow signs for "Koleshino" village. The road is paved to the village; the last 2 km to the trailhead is gravel (passable in any car in dry conditions).
Smolare Waterfall: 20 km east of Strumica. Follow signs for "Smolare" village. Paved road to the trailhead parking. Better-maintained access than Koleshino.
Koleshino Waterfall
The Hike
From the trailhead parking, the walk to the waterfall is 800 metres on a well-marked forest path. The trail follows a stream through beech forest with wooden bridges and handrails at the steeper sections. Allow 20 minutes each way.
The Waterfall
Koleshino Falls drops 15 metres into a natural pool surrounded by moss-covered rocks. The pool is deep enough for swimming in summer (June-September). The water is cold — roughly 12-14 degrees even in August — but refreshing after the walk.
Facilities
- Small cafe at the trailhead (seasonal, open June-September)
- Picnic tables near the parking area
- No toilet facilities on the trail
- No entrance fee
Smolare Waterfall
The Hike
From the parking area, a 1.2 km trail climbs through dense forest to the waterfall. The path includes 300 wooden steps — it is steeper than Koleshino but well-maintained with handrails. Allow 30 minutes up, 20 minutes down.
The Waterfall
Smolare Falls is the tallest in North Macedonia at 39 metres. The water drops in a single stream from a cliff face into a rocky pool below. The spray creates a permanent mist zone at the base — bring a waterproof layer for your phone and camera.
A viewing platform at the base provides the best photo angle. In spring (April-May), the water flow is strongest and the surrounding forest is brightest green.
Facilities
- Parking lot with 15-20 spaces (free)
- Information board at the trailhead
- No cafe or toilet at the waterfall (nearest in Smolare village)
- No entrance fee
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Spring (April-May) | Strongest water flow, greenest forest, cool temperatures |
| Summer (June-Aug) | Swimming possible at Koleshino, warm hiking weather |
| Autumn (Sept-Oct) | Autumn colours in the beech forest, quieter trails |
| Winter (Nov-Mar) | Trails may be icy/muddy; waterfalls partially frozen (scenic but dangerous) |
Recommendation: Visit in May or September for the best combination of water flow, weather, and solitude.
Strumica Town
Strumica itself is worth an hour's exploration before or after the waterfalls.
What to See
- Strumica Fortress (Carevi Kuli): Hilltop fortress ruins with panoramic views. 15-minute walk from the centre.
- Hot Springs (Bansko): Natural thermal baths in the village of Bansko, 10 km east of Strumica. Public pool and several small spa hotels. Water temperature: 72 degrees at source.
- St. Leontius Church: 11th-century church in the town centre with well-preserved frescoes.
- Strumica Carnival: If visiting in February/March, Strumica hosts the largest carnival in North Macedonia — a tradition since 1991.
Where to Eat
Strumica has several excellent restaurants serving southeastern Macedonian cuisine. Local specialities include:
- Selsko meso — slow-cooked meat stew
- Shopska salata — tomato, cucumber, pepper, and white cheese
- Strumica peppers — the region is famous for its roasted red peppers
Combining with Other Destinations
Waterfalls + Tikves Wine Region (Full Day)
Drive from Skopje to Tikves wine region for a morning winery visit, then continue east to Strumica for the waterfalls in the afternoon. Return to Skopje via the A1. Total: approximately 5 hours of driving.
Waterfalls + Stobi Archaeological Site (Full Day)
Stobi is on the A1, roughly halfway between Skopje and Strumica. Visit Stobi in the morning, drive to Strumica for the waterfalls, return via the A1. Total: approximately 4.5 hours of driving.
Waterfalls + Greece Day Trip
The Greek border crossing at Dojran is 45 km south of Strumica. With a Green Card (Zone 1, EUR 50), you can continue into Greece for a lakeside lunch at Lake Dojran before returning to Skopje.
Practical Tips
- Wear proper shoes. The trails are forest paths with roots and rocks — trainers or hiking shoes recommended.
- Bring water. No drinking water available on either trail.
- Visit both waterfalls. They are 15 km apart and can be done in the same half-day. Smolare first (more strenuous), then Koleshino (easier, with swimming option).
- Fuel up in Strumica. Several fuel stations in town. The villages near the waterfalls have no fuel.
- Check road conditions after rain. The gravel section to Koleshino can be muddy after heavy rain. An SUV/4x4 is helpful but not essential in dry conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a local operator over major international chains?
Daily rates are €22-50 (local) vs €38-70 (chains), no €1,000-1,500 pre-authorisation hold, free airport pickup vs €15-30 chain surcharge, and direct contact with the team that owns the fleet. Chains win only if you specifically need loyalty programme points or company billing through their global system.
How do I book — online, phone, or WhatsApp?
Three options. Online via macedonia-car-rental.com (booking form auto-quotes, no deposit taken). Phone +389 71 390 627 (English / German / Macedonian). WhatsApp +389 71 390 627 (preferred for international customers — saves on roaming). Email [email protected] works for groups or special requests.
What's the process when I return the car?
Bring it to the agreed drop-off location at the agreed time. We check the fuel level (must match pickup), exterior condition, and interior cleanliness. Paperwork takes 5-10 minutes. If everything matches, no further charges. Any damage outside CDW excess is settled on the spot in cash or by card.
Are pets allowed in the rental car?
Yes, with a €30 one-off cleaning charge to cover post-rental detailing. Bring a pet blanket or boot liner to minimise hair on the upholstery. Crates / carriers fit comfortably in the boot of any category from economy upward. Service animals travel free with documentation.
What payment methods do you accept on arrival?
Cash in EUR (preferred) or MKD denars. Card (Visa, Mastercard) with a 1.5% processing fee. Bank transfer in advance (zero fees, settled 24-72 hours before pickup). American Express and Diners Club not accepted — Yandex / PayPal not supported on rental payments either.
Book Your Nature Trip
Strumica's waterfalls are North Macedonia's best-kept secret. Book your rental car online for the published online rate. For nature-focused itineraries, contact us — we can suggest routes that combine waterfalls, wineries, and archaeological sites.
