This is where the Great Powers had their consulates during the disintegration of Turkey's European holdings. When you walk through Bitola you get the overwhelming impression that this is a Muslim city with its grand mosques everywhere. That s when the local farmers bring their produce to market and sell it at very reasonable prices. Remember to negotiate before you purchase as the prices tend to rise for tourists. The produce is plentiful and the quality of the food is very high.
Macedonian cuisine is basically vegetarian based, with the meat added or taken away as desired.
As highlanders, the Macedonians also eat a lot of cheese. Pelister National Park is a short bus ride from Bitola. From the village you follow the road to the National Park. Alternatively you can catch a taxi to the hotel Molika situated at the entrance of the park. Most people go there in winter for the skiing.