Lukovska Banja: 37 thermal springs and outdoor bathing even in snow

Lukovska Banja, tucked into the slopes of Kopaonik at roughly 700 metres above sea level, is positioning itself as an affordable spa retreat for Macedonian travellers. The resort lies about 275 kilometres from Skopje via the Tabanovce border crossing on the road to Niš and Kuršumlija, which makes it convenient for a long weekend or an autumn–winter break.

Private rooms are surprisingly inexpensive: you can find overnight stays from 10 to 20 euros (600 to 1,200 denars) per person, while whole private apartments for two in the village centre typically range from 25 to 50 euros (1,500 to 3,000 denars).

Main draw: warm pools even in winter

The resort’s headline attraction is its thermal water. Outdoor and indoor pools are kept between 33 and 35°C, allowing visitors to bathe outdoors even when snow is falling. In total the area boasts 37 thermal springs, and temperatures at the sources can reach as high as 68°C.

Modern spa centres inside hotels such as Bela Jela, Jelak and Kopaonik complement the public pools. There is also a historic site known as the King Milutin bath — a thermal pool with water at 42–44°C designed for deep muscle relaxation.

The mineral-rich water is traditionally used to help people with rheumatic diseases and osteoporosis, and to relieve joint and back pain, sports injuries, circulation problems and chronic stress. Nearby the river is the spring called the 'Tears of Simonida', linked to the legend of the Byzantine princess Simonida; next to it a natural inhalatorium releases hydrogen-sulfide steam believed to be good for respiratory conditions.

Local restaurants serve regional specialities — lamb, homemade pies, trout and cheeses — and a full lunch costs roughly 8 to 13 euros (500 to 800 denars). For visitors seeking quiet mountain air, thermal water and modest prices without urban crowds, Lukovska Banja is presented as an attractive, easy-to-reach option.

Photo: press material from the event