Careva Distillery: Taste Macedonian Brandies, Wines & Nature

Discovering Careva Distillery: A True Macedonian Gem
Exploring the village of Klimestani, just 17 km from Ohrid, I found myself immersed in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Careva Distillery & Winery. This family-owned enterprise offers a 3.5-hour journey into Macedonian traditions, where you get to taste handcrafted rakija and wines, learn about local methods, and enjoy stunning natural vistas. The experience combines a comfortable combination of cultural insight, delicious flavors, and breathtaking scenery—a real treat for anyone craving genuine local flavor.

What I particularly appreciated was the personal touch—a friendly guide, probably a family member, who shared stories behind each drink and tradition. Plus, the scenic walk through the village reveals charming views of mountains, the Sateska River, and historic sites like the Church of Saint Clement of Ohrid. That said, if you’re not a fan of walking or have limited mobility, you might want to consider how much walking the tour involves. Still, for those who enjoy wandering small villages and soaking in local life, this adds a lovely layer of authenticity to the experience.

One minor consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, vegans, or people with certain food allergies or health conditions. But if you’re after a laid-back, intimate taste of Macedonian culture, this tour hits the right notes. I found the value excellent, especially considering the quality of tastings, the guide’s knowledge, and the scenic highlights—making it a worthwhile cultural and culinary outing.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Family Tradition: The distillery is family-run, with a passionate approach to preserving local methods and recipes.
• High-Quality Tastings: Sample three types of homemade wines and several fruit brandies, all crafted with natural, organic ingredients from the region.
• Local Food & Hospitality: The Meze platter offers a variety of homemade Macedonian delicacies, making the tasting experience more memorable.
• Scenic Village Walk: The walk through Klimestani provides sweeping mountain views, a chance to visit historic sites, and enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
• Informative Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and share stories about the tradition, the family, and the region, adding depth to the experience.
• Flexible & Private: The experience is private, lasts around 3.5 hours, and offers the convenience of reserve-and-pay-later booking, making it adaptable for different plans.

Exploring the Journey: A Deep Dive into the Careva Experience

Arrival and Welcome in Klimestani

The tour begins with a pickup from a pre-arranged location, which saves you hassle and helps you settle in comfortably. Arriving in Klimestani, a small, picturesque village, I was greeted with genuine warmth—something that instantly set the tone. The family hosts serve a traditional Macedonian Meze platter, featuring homemade small dishes that pair beautifully with the rakija tasting. This initial tasting showcases the passion and skill that goes into each bottle, often made from local fruits grown on their land.

Learning the Art of Rakija and Winemaking

One of my favorite moments was the personal introduction from the host, who explained the traditional methods of distillation—an art that has been passed down through generations. Unlike mass-produced spirits, these handcrafted brandies carry aromatic complexity and a genuine sense of place. The storytelling behind each fruit brandy was charming, emphasizing the importance of family heritage and local ingredients.

Next, the tour moves to the wine cellar, where I enjoyed tasting three different homemade wines—white, rosé, and red. The host explained the regional winemaking traditions and the microclimate of the area, which is cooler yet sunny enough to produce high-quality, organic grapes. The wines are unfiltered, adding to their authenticity, and you can tell that each bottle is crafted with care, not just for commercial sale but as a family legacy.

Village Walk and Natural Beauty

The walking tour in Klimestani is a highlight—an opportunity to see the natural treasures that surround the distillery. I loved the breathtaking views of rugged mountains and the peaceful flow of the Sateska River. Visiting the Church of Saint Clement of Ohrid, a historic site, added a cultural dimension and gave a sense of connection to the region’s deep-rooted history. The guide shared stories about the village and its traditions, making the walk feel like a journey through living history.

Optional Lunch & Final Sips

Before ending the tour, there’s an option for a home-cooked Macedonian lunch—if pre-booked—which I recommend for a full experience. The meal balances local flavors and complements the drinks beautifully. A post-tour coffee with a traditional dessert is served as a final warm farewell, emphasizing the hospitality that makes this tour so special.

Practical Considerations and Value

The 3.5-hour duration is well-managed, blending tastings, a scenic walk, and cultural insights without feeling rushed. The price reflects the quality of the experience—authentic, personalized, and packed with memorable moments. The tour is perfect for adults interested in local traditions, natural beauty, and good wine, but it may not suit those with mobility issues or very young children.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic culinary traditions and scenic village settings. Food and wine lovers will enjoy tasting high-quality homemade products, paired with stories behind each sip. It’s ideal for those looking for an intimate, educational journey rather than a large, impersonal group tour.

If you’re craving a deeper connection to Macedonian culture—through food, landscape, and family stories—Careva Distillery offers a welcoming portal into the region’s soul. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, meaningful outing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance, especially if you want the lunch option—it’s popular.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the scenic village walk—the terrain is mostly flat but uneven in parts.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and charming village scenes.
• If you dislike alcohol, note that this tour is centered around tastings, but non-drinkers can still enjoy the food and scenery.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, vegans, or those with certain health conditions, so plan accordingly.
• The experience offers reserve now, pay later options, providing flexibility in your planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, a convenient pickup from a pre-arranged location is part of the experience, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 3.5 hours, including tastings, walking, and some cultural exploration.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a traditional Macedonian Meze platter with tastings, and an optional lunch can be pre-booked for a fuller meal experience.

Can children join the tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, as it involves alcohol tasting.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, ensuring a personalized experience.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering maximum flexibility.

What about accessibility?
The walking involves some uneven terrain, so those with mobility issues should consider this.

Who leads the tour?
Guides are knowledgeable, often family members, who passionately share stories and details about their craft.

Is vegetarian or vegan food available?
The tour is not suitable for vegans, and specific dietary restrictions aren’t highlighted, so check in advance if needed.

In closing, Careva Distillery offers a genuine, heartfelt look at Macedonian tradition through its wines, rakija, and scenic village life. It’s a perfect choice if you value authentic experiences, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. While it may not suit everyone, those who love discovering local flavors and stories will find it well worth the trip—and a highlight of any visit to Ohrid’s surroundings.