Shar Mountains Cat Skiing
Overview
Shar Mountains Cat Skiing Tours ares among Europe’s newer cat ski adventures. Starting in the ski resort of Popova Shapka you will be transported across to the alpine hut high in the mountains above Bogovinje. The safari is fully hosted from start to finish by a wonderful local team that will ensure a great time for all. The region is known for its magnificent food & hospitality which is the perfect accompaniment to the powder-laden mountain freeride experience.
After flying into the North Macedonian capital of Skopje (see how to get to there on our Travel to Skopje), you will transported to the Hotel Scardus in Popova Sapka where the adventure begins. A typical 2-day tour will spend either one or two night in the mountain hut at Bogovinje, depending on snow conditions and the wishes of the group.
All guiding, accommodation, meals, ground transport & airport transfers are included in the tour & the number of days is fully customisable depending on availability of seats in the snowcat.
Snow & Terrain
The Bogovinje cat ski operation is located in one the snowiest parts of the Balkans. Terrain is generally between 1,800m & 2,600m, guaranteeing snow cover. As with mountains everywhere, the wind can play a massive part in the prevailing snow conditions, but all the ski locations have options to make the most of the conditions. About 3,000m vertical is skied on any one day but can be more or less depending on the group and the weather.
The terrain is has multiple aspects (but predominantly east-facing) at Bogovinje. Whilst the skiable vertical will depend on the snow conditions, each run is generally 4-600m vertical. At above 1800m, the terrain is predominantly high alpine peaks, ridges, chutes, meadows & bowls. Light & then heavy trees, allowing for fun skiing & riding even in poor visibility are available at some lower altitudes near Popova.
Accommodation & Food
Accommodation is either fully in the comfortable mountain hut at Bogovinje or perhaps in the Hotel Scardus (depending on weather and other variables!). The food on the tour is amazing, indeed one of the real treats of visiting the region! For more details, see the Lodging tab.
Snowcats & Guiding
The cat ski operation has a minimum of 2 modern & comfortable snowcats capable of seating 14 people. One snowcat is held in reserve to cover any unforeseen issues (cat-skiing is tough on these machines!). Most (but not all) snowcats have safe side entry doors & side mounted ski storage.
Guides are experienced local skiers with up to date avalanche safety & first aid training. Avalanche safety equipment avaialble for rent to all participants is brand new from season 19/20.
