Set in the shadow of the serrated tops of mighty Titov Vrv, the highest peak in the Šar Mountain range that forms the natural borderline between Macedonia and Kosovo in the south, Tetovo is perhaps the most handsome of all the high-perched hill towns in the region. Steeped in history, its central streets showcases Roman, Ottoman, Byzantine and Slavic treats, cut through by the squiggling course of the Pena River.

Getting lost amidst this web of enthralling historical wonders, between the Turkic hammams and madrasas and the exquisite faces of the Šarena Džamija painted mosque, is usually enough to keep even the most discerning sightseers busy. Tetovo tour guides also often recommend heading for the heights of the Bal Tepe fortress, soaring on limestone ridges above town, or the aged monastic complex of Lešok some five miles from the centre. In the winter, Tetovo is also the favoured gateway to the pistes of the Popova Šapka ski resort. That said, the town’s gastronomic treats are available all year through, with local recipes of pastries and meat paired beautifully with a dash of Rakija, the local brandy.