Popova Sapka

Popova Šapka sits at around seventeen hundred metres in the Šar mountains above Tetovo, the country's best-known ski area, with lifts running onto the open slopes above and a gondola climbing from the valley. Investment has been intermittent and the infrastructure is dated, but the snow is reliable and the off-piste terrain on the high ridges is extensive, which draws ski tourers. In summer the same ground is walked and ridden.

What to look for

• The ski slopes - open terrain above the resort in the Sar range.
• The gondola - the cable link climbing from Tetovo in the valley.
• The ski touring - the extensive off-piste terrain on the high ridges.
• The summer walking - the same ground used for hiking and riding.

When to go

December to March is the ski season, with snow reliable at this altitude. June to September for walking. The gondola operation has been intermittent.

Good to know

Lift infrastructure is dated and has had long periods out of service, including the gondola. Facilities are basic. Off-piste terrain carries avalanche risk and there is limited patrol.

Nearby

Tetovo is below, and the Sar Mountains park surrounds it.

Key facts