A day on Šar Mountain that was about much more than just hiking.
From Sidolski Kamen, through the traditional summer sheepfolds in Šipkovica, and all the way to Guri i Llopëve, Healing Hike gave us an opportunity to step away from the city rush, slow down, and reconnect with nature, the local community and the rich heritage of Šar Mountain.
Our hike began at Sidolski Kamen, with the trail continuing towards the summer sheepfolds in Šipkovica. There, local guide and professor Nedžbedin Haliti shared stories and insights into the history, traditions and significance of the sheepfolds, as well as the botanical garden.
The trail then continued towards Kamenot na Kravite, with every step opening up a new view of the mountain and its landscape.
But Healing Hike was about more than following a trail. It was about connection – with nature, with local stories and with the people around us. About those moments when we stop, look around and experience a place through all its layers – natural, cultural and human.
It is through experiences like these that we build and nurture the values that connect us: togetherness, care for nature and respect for cultural heritage.
Because sometimes, to reconnect with ourselves, all we need is to take a few steps closer to nature.
Healing Hike was organized by Europe House Tetovo, UNSHMT and the Tetovo Mountaineering Club, with the support of the Municipality of Tetovo.