St Thomas More - Macedonia

Leader: Jim Evans

20th July 2025 - Mount Korab Calls...

Today was our week's goal: Mount Korab, the highest peak of both North Macedonia and Albania. Fourteen students summitted Mount Korab. Another five summitted a satellite peak. A lucky few even spied a large brown bear at altitude.

Back at base, a local, celebratory dish was in order (and of course another debrief!).

The day of departure came. After a relaxed breakfast, Team STM set off on their two hour drive to the airport.

19th July 2025 - A Macedonian Mountain Challenge

With the challenge of Mount Korab on the horizon, today, we opted for the less arduous Plat Peak. Nonetheless, at 2398 m, it is no walk in the park!

Another good breakfast later, our group set off at 08:50. First difficulty? The initial 200 m of ascent. At this point, Team STM subdivided into three different groups for the day. Each group was then able to enjoy the mountain environment at their own pace.

Congratulations to the eleven who summitted. And, a big round of applause to everyone who tackled those steep contour lines!

Our Macedonian mountain day came to an end at around 4pm. After a short break, we headed to our final hotel for more good food and another briefing!

Next up, Mount Korab!

18th July 2025 - Summit No. 1 Ticked!

Even North Macedonia is not immune to Lake District clag! Our first summit day began with a misty start. Perfect walking temperatures with a light breeze followed. Best of all, it was a great team success: everyone summitted! A magnificent effort by all with an altitude difference of 950 m. All that remained was the descent to the hut and the village. From hut to hotel, luxury beckoned in Popova Shapka. Another mountain day that ended with a hearty meal and riveting debrief 😬.

17th July 2025 - Let the Adventure Begin!

Today was not your average airport transfer! Our end destination? North Macedonia's oldest mountain hut via one coach and various 4 x 4s. After a long day, Team St Thomas More finally arrived at the Ljuboten Mountain Hut. No time to relax though! There were beds to be claimed, and a hearty meal consumed. Last but not least, their favourite bit of the day: the briefing!

An early start beckons for the ascent of Ljuboten Peak (2498m). Boots and sun lotion at the ready!

15th July 2025 - Time to escape the rain for a Macedonian adventure

Less than twenty-four hours to go before the intrepid St Thomas More group swaps raincoats for sun lotion...