Best Places for Hiking in Serbia: Explore the Wild Beauty

Serbia is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of breathtaking hiking trails. From dramatic mountains and dense forests to serene lakes and canyons, Serbia’s landscapes promise adventure for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Here are some of the best places for hiking in Serbia:

1. Tara National Park

Tara National Park is one of Serbia’s most famous hiking destinations. Its dense coniferous forests, deep river gorges, and panoramic viewpoints offer numerous trails for hikers of all levels.

Tara National Park, ph credit: Milan Radovic, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Banjska Stena viewpoint provides one of the most stunning views of the Drina River canyon.

2. Stara Planina (Balkan Mountains)

Known for its wild beauty, Stara Planina is home to some of the highest peaks in Serbia, including Midžor (2,169m).

Stara planina, ph credit: Leontije mirotvorac, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hikers can explore cascading waterfalls such as Tupavica, or trek through vast meadows and untouched wilderness.

3. Fruška Gora National Park

Located near Novi Sad, Fruška Gora is ideal for both casual hikers and seasoned adventurers.

Fruška Gora National park, ph credit: Epistola8, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This mountain is rich in monasteries, vineyards, and oak forests, offering well-marked trails that lead to stunning viewpoints like Iriški Venac.

4. Rtanj Mountain

A true gem for hikers, Rtanj Mountain is famous for its pyramid-like shape and mystical legends.

Rtanj, ph credit: Cedomir Zarkovic, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The trail to its highest peak, Šiljak (1,565m), offers breathtaking views and a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers.

5. Uvac Special Nature Reserve

For those who love hiking near water, Uvac’s meanders and limestone cliffs offer unique trails.

Uvac, photo:Sasapokimica, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The hike to Molitva Viewpoint showcases the famous winding river and its stunning landscapes, with a chance to spot griffon vultures in the sky.

6. Kopaonik National Park

Kopaonik is Serbia’s largest mountain and ski resort, and also boasts fantastic hiking trails in summer.

Kopaonik National Park, ph credit: Misa.stefanovic.07, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hikers can explore lush forests, high-altitude meadows, and waterfalls like Jelovarnik, Serbia’s highest waterfall.

7. Golija Mountain

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Golija is an untouched paradise with vast forests and diverse flora and fauna.

Golija, ph credit: darkobajic, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hiking trails lead through pristine nature, offering an escape into Serbia’s most preserved landscapes.

8. Ovčar-Kablar Gorge

Perfect for a day hike, the Ovčar-Kablar region is known as the Serbian Mount Athos due to its numerous monasteries.

Ovčar-Kablar Gorge, ph credit: NeDJo, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The trek up to Kablar Peak rewards hikers with a spectacular view of the West Morava River meanders.

9. Đerdap National Park (Iron Gates)

Đerdap is home to Serbia’s longest and most scenic hiking trails along the Danube River.

Veliki Kazan, ph credit: Milan Paunović, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Veliki Štrbac trail offers breathtaking views of the Iron Gates Gorge and Romania’s Carpathian Mountains.

10. Lazarev Canyon

Lazarev Canyon, one of Serbia’s deepest and most dramatic gorges, is a hidden gem for adventurous hikers. Located near Bor, this canyon features steep cliffs, underground rivers, and numerous caves, including the famous Lazareva Pećina. The challenging trails reward hikers with breathtaking views of untouched wilderness.

Lazarev Canyon, ph credit: Milos.golubovic, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Whether you prefer gentle hikes or challenging ascents, Serbia offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. Each trail provides a unique perspective of the country’s natural beauty, making Serbia an ideal destination for every hiking enthusiast. So, grab your hiking boots and explore the best trails Serbia has to offer!