A Taste of Macedonia: Discover the Olive Garden of Valandovo

Kajak.mk always explores where others don’t! At Kajak.mk, we strive to promote the less-touristy areas of Macedonia, proving that even there, unique attractions await you.

Today, we take you to the heart of the Valandovo region, specifically to the village of Pirava, where the Mediterranean climate and fertile soil create the perfect conditions for gastronomic masterpieces.

Such masterpieces are currently being created by Aleksandar Avramovski, a man whose love for the olive tree inspired him to plant over 800 olive trees. Today, he transforms the harvest into a mythical liquid known as the first Macedonian boutique cold-pressed olive oil.

Aleksandar welcomed us into his production facilities in Pirava, which will be open to individual visitors starting in mid-October, when, as he says, he will receive the new stock of olive oil.

FROM IDEA TO CRAFT

It all started in 2008 as a family vision that slowly but surely grew into a true agricultural treasure, says Aleksandar. Today, on more than 20,000 square meters of olive orchards, over 800 olive trees of the Chalkidiki, Ascollana, and Picual varieties thrive. Nothing here is left to chance: every leaf, every fruit, and every step of the production process is guided by passion, knowledge, and attention to detail.

The Avramovski family has invested in modern technology and storage facilities, and in 2024, they acquired a top-tier cold-press mill that sets the standard high – meeting the strictest global criteria.

Aleksandar says that each olive is handpicked, and the processing begins no later than 4 hours after harvest, at a strictly controlled temperature of 24°C, which is the magical formula for preserving the nutritional values and natural flavor.

OLIVE OIL WITH SOUL

The oil is not only 100% made from their own olives, but every drop speaks of Macedonia – its soil, its spirit, and its people. With low acidity, rich in antioxidants, golden in color, and a flavor that reminds you of freshly mowed grass and newly picked olives, this oil is not just a product, but an experience for all the senses.

The Kajak.mk team adds this unique Olive Garden story to the category of gastronomic suggestions, and as we mentioned, in the fall, the doors will officially open for individual visitors who can stroll through the olive plantation, learn about the production process, and experience the taste of the Valandovo region.