Kruševo is becoming one of Europe’s most exciting destinations for adventure tourism, with a major EU supported project and two international paragliding championships putting the mountain town firmly on the map. The city recently hosted the 18th FAI European Paragliding Championships, which brought together 130 of Europe’s top pilots representing 30 nations. The competition took place from August 8 to 19, with pilots competing above Kruševo and the Pelagonia Valley. From August 22 to 30, the town is also scheduled to host the 2nd FAI Junior World Paragliding Championships, bringing another group of young international pilots to Macedonia.
Kruševo has invested in new infrastructure to support the sport, including two new take off areas, while existing locations have been upgraded with briefing areas, parking, water supplies and toilets. At the same time, the EU supported “Kruševo and Elbasan, Journey into Nature and Adventure” project is helping improve paragliding infrastructure, including two new take off areas on Crn Vrv. The goal is to create better conditions for active tourism and attract visitors interested in outdoor experiences. Paragliding is becoming an increasingly important part of Kruševo’s tourism offer alongside hiking, cycling, horseback riding and other activities.
The European championship also gave Kruševo a major international showcase. According to the World Air Sports Federation, the town has become one of Europe’s iconic paragliding destinations because of its accommodation facilities, tourism infrastructure and reliable flying conditions. The latest championship produced a major success for Macedonia, with Anna Berger winning the women’s European title, while Macedonia finished second in the nations’ classification behind Slovenia. Slovenian pilot Tilen Ceglar won the overall European title. The arrival of hundreds of athletes, coaches and accompanying visitors has also provided an important boost for local accommodation providers, restaurants and other businesses.
With the European championship completed and the Junior World Championships following immediately afterward, August has become one of the busiest months for international paragliding in Kruševo. The combination of EU investment, international sporting events and adventure tourism could help the town strengthen its position as one of the leading outdoor destinations in the region. For Macedonia, it is also an opportunity to showcase a different side of the country, where international athletes can fly above the mountains while visitors experience Kruševo’s nature, historic architecture, traditional cuisine and growing adventure tourism scene.
