Macedonia, officially the Republic of Macedonia is located in the Balkan Peninsular and was previously part of Yugoslavia until they gained independence in 1991. It is a spectacular landlocked country that has an abundance of mountains, lakes, national parks, and ancient towns with Ottoman and European architecture. Where to go: Hike Mount Ljuboten. Explore Skopje. Slither through a cave. Rock climb or kayak in Matka Canyon. Hike the hills of Mavrovo National Park. Dive into history in Ohrid. Paraglide Krusevo's thermals. Visit the Painted Mosque.