Exploring Serbia: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Breathtaking Landscapes
During the months of August and September, we traveled through Serbia, a country that blends deep-rooted history with stunning natural beauty. From rolling hills and serene lakes to vibrant cities filled with stories of resilience, every place we visited offered something unique.
Jablanica: Sunset Over an Idyllic Park-Up
Our journey began in Jablanica, where we found an incredible park-up with breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. The surrounding landscape was peaceful, with rolling countryside stretching into the distance. Serbia’s countryside, often overlooked in favor of its bustling cities, is a place where time slows down, and the beauty of nature takes center stage.
Must-Dos in Jablanica:
Catch the sunset from a hilltop viewpoint for breathtaking scenery.
Enjoy a countryside walk to experience the untouched nature.
Visit a local farm to try fresh Serbian dairy products.
Pack a picnic and relax by a nearby river or lake.
Experience rural Serbian hospitality by staying at a family-run guesthouse.
Zlatibor: Mountain Escapes and Panoramic Views
Heading south, we arrived in Zlatibor, a popular mountain resort known for its crisp air and stunning vistas. We took the Gold Gondola, the longest panoramic cable car in the world, offering jaw-dropping views over the pine-covered mountains and the shimmering Ribničko Lake. The area has been a retreat for centuries, offering both adventure and relaxation.
Must-Dos in Zlatibor:
Ride the Gold Gondola for unmatched mountain views.
Hike to Stopića Cave, known for its impressive limestone formations.
Try traditional Zlatibor prosciutto and kajmak cheese.
Visit the open-air museum of Sirogojno, a preserved 19th-century village.
Explore Tornik, the highest peak in Zlatibor, for incredible hiking trails.
The longest cable car in Europe in Zlatibor
Gostilje and the Waterfalls of Serbia
Near Zlatibor, Gostilje welcomed us with its cascading waterfalls, a hidden gem nestled in lush greenery. The Gostilje Waterfalls, plunging from 20 meters high, are a perfect example of Serbia’s lesser-known natural wonders. We also explored Rudine and Trnava, areas known for their caves and underground wonders, revealing another side of Serbia’s diverse terrain.
Gostilje Waterfalls.
Must-Dos in Gostilje:
Walk the scenic trails around Gostilje Waterfalls.
Visit the nearby caves of Trnava for an underground adventure.
Swim in the natural pools near the falls during summer.
Enjoy a meal at a traditional village restaurant.
Capture stunning nature photography of the waterfall and surrounding forest.
Užice and Mokra Gora: A Glimpse into Serbia’s Past
We arrived in Užice, a historic town that played a significant role in both medieval and 20th-century Serbian history. The town was briefly the capital of the Užice Republic, a short-lived free territory during World War II.
Šargan Eight Railway
Nearby, Mokra Gora was a place we had high hopes for, particularly the famous Šargan Eight Railway, a historic narrow-gauge train weaving through breathtaking mountain scenery. Unfortunately, it was fully booked, so if you're planning a visit, it’s best to reserve tickets in advance. Still, the beauty of the area, with its rolling hills and untouched forests, made it a worthwhile stop.
Must-Dos in Užice and Mokra Gora:
Take a ride on the Šargan Eight Railway (book in advance).
Visit the Wooden Town (Drvengrad), built by filmmaker Emir Kusturica.
Explore the Užice Fortress for panoramic views of the town.
Swim in the clear waters of the Đetinja River.
Try the local Užice-style komplet lepinja, a traditional Serbian dish.
Višegrad and the Drina River House
Crossing into Višegrad, we found ourselves in one of the most picturesque spots in Serbia. The Drina River House, perched on a rock in the middle of the river, looked almost surreal. It has stood resilient for decades, enduring the elements and symbolizing the harmony between man and nature.
Smallest house in Serbia
Must-Dos in Višegrad:
Visit the famous Drina River House for stunning photography.
Walk across the historic Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge.
Take a boat ride along the Drina River.
Explore the Andrićgrad complex, dedicated to Nobel Prize-winning author Ivo Andrić.
Try local Bosnian-style cevapi, a favorite grilled meat dish.
Lake Zaovine
Zaovine and Tara National Park: Serbia’s Wild Beauty
Exploring the Zaovine region, we discovered some of the most untouched and awe-inspiring scenery of our trip. Zaovine Lake, with its deep blue waters reflecting the dense forests, was a serene escape. The viewpoints in Tara National Park, particularly Rastište and Banjska Stena, provided stunning panoramic views over the Drina River canyon, a sight that felt almost otherworldly.
Must-Dos in Zaovine and Tara National Park:
Hike to Banjska Stena for the best viewpoint over the Drina Canyon.
Kayak or swim in Zaovine Lake.
Visit the Bear Sanctuary in Tara National Park.
Go birdwatching and spot Serbia’s rare species.
Take a scenic drive through the park’s winding roads.
Belgrade: The Heartbeat of Serbia
What better way to celebrate Donna’s birthday than by visiting Belgrade? It was an absolute highlight. A city that has been fought over, destroyed, and rebuilt countless times, it pulses with energy and history. We joined a free walking tour, one of the best ways to absorb the city’s layered past.
Must-Dos in Belgrade:
Belgrade street art
Walk through Knez Mihailova Street for shopping and cafés.
Explore the Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park.
Experience Skadarlija’s bohemian charm with live music.
Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum.
Take a sunset river cruise along the Danube and Sava Rivers.
Bela Crkva and the Beauty of Serbian Towns
Leaving Belgrade, we visited Bela Crkva, a charming town surrounded by lakes and vineyards. The nearby village of Vracev Gaj and the Korzo promenade gave us a glimpse of everyday life in Serbia’s countryside, where locals gather to socialize, sip coffee, and enjoy the slow pace of life.
Must-Dos in Bela Crkva:
Bela Crkva which means white church
Swim in the Bela Crkva lakes.
Explore the town’s charming architecture.
Visit a local winery and try Serbian wines.
Cycle through the scenic countryside.
Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake.
Sremski Karlovci: A Town Steeped in History and Wine
One of the most picturesque stops on our journey was Sremski Karlovci, a town that played a crucial role in Serbian and European history. This was the site of the 1699 Treaty of Karlowitz, which marked the end of the Ottoman-Habsburg wars. The town is also famous for its wine culture, particularly the sweet Bermet wine, a specialty of the region.
Must-Dos in Sremski Karlovci:
Visit the historic Karlovci Gymnasium.
Sample Bermet wine at a local winery.
See the beautiful Four Lions Fountain.
Tour the Orthodox Cathedral of St. Nicholas.
Walk up to the viewpoint overlooking the Danube River.
Final Thoughts
Serbia turned out to be a country of contrasts—where ancient fortresses stand next to modern cafes, where deep forests hide waterfalls and caves, and where cities tell stories of empires and revolutions. Whether exploring historical sites, hiking in national parks, or simply enjoying a sunset over the mountains, Serbia left an unforgettable mark on our journey. If you're considering a visit, take your time. Serbia is best explored slowly, allowing its rich history and breathtaking landscapes to truly sink in.
