Skopje: Monastery Winery Tour & Wine Tasting with Pickup

Summary

St. Cosmas monastery calm, Macedonian wine pours, cellar stories shared

You’ll share wine stories with locals at a family-run Skopje winery, taste five Macedonian wines plus two brandies on a sunny terrace, snack on cheese and charcuterie from nearby fields, and step into the peaceful shadows of St. Cosmas & Damian Monastery before heading home full and content.

What’s the experience like?

Li greeted us at the winery gate with a big wave — not sure if she always does that or just sensed we were a bit lost (the driver laughed too). The air smelled like cut grass and something sweet I couldn’t place. We followed her past rows of vines, some of them looking almost wild, to this cool stone cellar where she handed us glasses before we even sat down. She said something about “letting the wine breathe” but honestly I was too busy watching sunlight creep across the barrels. I tried to repeat the name of the first white — Viognier? — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Macedonian. Probably butchered it.

The tasting was on a terrace overlooking the hills near Skopje, and there was this soft hum from bees somewhere in the lavender. Every pour came with a little story: how they pick grapes before sunrise for freshness, why their brandy is only for “brave guests.” The cheese platter had these crumbly bits that stuck to my fingers; I kept sneaking extra olives. At one point someone from our group asked about the monastery next door and Li just said, “Let’s go see.” No big speech — just walked us over.

The inside of St. Cosmas & Damian Monastery was dim and cool, all old stone and candle smoke. Our guide pointed out faded icons on the walls — apparently some are hundreds of years old. It felt quiet in a way you don’t get in cities. Afterward we wandered back to finish our last glass (a deep red that tasted almost peppery), sitting around until our driver gently reminded us it was time to head back. I still think about that hush inside the monastery sometimes — and how good that last sip felt in my throat.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Winery tour and optional monastery visit

• Arrive at winery entrance
• Tour the wine cellar
• Enjoy wine tasting on terrace or lounge
• Optional visit to St. Cosmas and Damian Monastery

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Skopje winery tour?

Yes, organized transfer from your accommodation to the winery and back is included.

How many wines are tasted during the tour?

The tasting includes five different wines and two types of brandy.

Can you visit St. Cosmas & Damian Monastery during this day trip?

Yes, visiting the monastery is optional as part of your experience.

Are food pairings provided with the wine tasting?

Yes, you'll enjoy a cheese and charcuterie platter along with your tastings.

Is this private wine tour suitable for families or children?

The tour welcomes infants and small children; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

How long does it take to reach the winery from Skopje?

The exact duration isn't specified but transport is organized directly from your accommodation in Skopje.

Will there be a local guide during the visit?

A winery guide accompanies you throughout your tasting and cellar tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Skopje, guided tours through both the wine cellar and monastery (if you want), tastings of five estate wines plus two brandies, bottled water to keep things balanced, a generous cheese and charcuterie platter sourced locally, and an easy ride back to your door when it’s all done.