Travel Guide Velestovo

Located at an altitude of 1,040 m, Velestovo offers magnificent views of the lake and the town of Ohrid. It is home to several panoramic accommodations and restaurants. It is a rather wealthy old shepherds' village, with over a thousand inhabitants in the 1990s. Many churches can be found here. The oldest is Dormition-de-la-Mère-de-Dieu (Црква Успение на Пресвета Богородица). It still boasts 15th-century frescoes. Velestovo takes its name from Veles, the Slavic god of War, Cattle and Wealth. The hamlet is the starting point for several hiking trails through the Galičica National Park, notably to Mount Elen, at 1,209 m (south of Velestovo), and to Tri Maži peak, at 1,630 m (southeast). Also nearby is the Pogled site, used for paragliding. Even if you're not a fan of this extreme sport, it's worth a visit to watch the sails unfurl and enjoy the panoramic view over the lake.