Kosovo says goodbye without much drama: an early start, clear morning air, temperatures still just about manageable. Beyond Ferizaj, the route turns more rural, the road slowly climbs, and the mountains begin to move closer on the horizon. The border into North Macedonia feels quiet, almost understated. Then the character changes immediately: more climbing, longer gradients, wider valleys.
Towards Tetovo, the landscape opens up, with the Šar Mountains standing strong in the background. It is one of those days where the heat never really leaves – it simply rides along. Gostivar becomes the well-earned finish: food, shower, siesta. Nothing more needed.
