Stara Planina mountain should be visited for numerous reasons, including the stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor activities available in the area. Here are the top ten things to see and do on Stara Planina mountain in Serbia:
Babin zub peak – At over 1780 meters, Babin zub is the highest peak in the mountain range, and it boasts a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Midžor peak – At over 2169 meters, Midžor is the highest peak in Serbia. Climbing to the top takes a bit more effort than Babin Zub, but it’s more than worth it for the stunning views at the summit.
Ray’s Flute lookout – At the southern end of the mountain, this isolated view offers a unique perspective of the winding valley below and open signposts.
Waterfall Tupavica – This beautiful waterfall is located near the town of Pirot and is set against an incredible backdrop of rocky cliffs and forest.
The historical town of Pirot – This ancient town in eastern Serbia offers a glimpse into multi-national Medieval history, fascinating landmarks, and unique local cuisine.
Skiing and Snowboarding – Stara Planina’s great pistes will delight winter sport enthusiasts with multiple ski resorts.
Staro perkovce ethno ensembe – This unique ensemble hosts traditional music yearly, with unique tying in costumes and customs of this Serbian region.
Ethno village Stara Planina and a mountain shelter is a peculiar prefabricated mountain shelter made from wood in the 18th century style persons mix of cultural heritage and great estates.
Visit the traditional households in the villages – Stara Planina has a unique cultural heritage represented by the architecture, clothing, customs, and lifestyle of people living in the various small communities scattered all over the mountain range. They have been living off the land for centuries, striving to preserve the simplicity of life and authentic culture. Visitors can participate in cooking workshops, beekeeping classes, artisan practices, wine and rakia hubs, etc. Experience the local customs and way of life of the friendly people and enter a time bubble when you catch their tales.
Visit the Belogradchik Rocks – About an hour’s drive from the Stara Planina mountain range across the border in Bulgaria, the Belogradchik Rocks are unique geological formations made up of peculiar-shaped sandstone and limestone rock formations in the Balkan Mountains. The area is a perfect mixture of natural wonders and historical treasures, with the curvature of the rocks resembling human faces and the fantastic Crimson Fortress dating from the Ancient Roman period. Visitors can explore the reserve’s rock formations, hike and climb along designated routes, and visit the medieval Baba Vida fortress in nearby Vidin. The Belogradchik Rocks are an exciting day trip for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Fun facts:
– The Stara Planina mountain range is famous for its natural richness of flora and fauna, including over 3,000 plant species, 50 species of mammals, 200 bird species, and approximately 20 species of reptiles.
– During the Ottoman Empire’s rule, Stara Planina mountain played an essential role in royal guard states’ movements, used as a logistic and strategic military retreat, many significant battles happened in the significant parts of the mountain.
– An ultra-marathon first Trail Banat staged on its slopes between its highest peaks will last take in the intense area near Junipyramids – place of showing signs of glacial activity 1.6 billion years ago.
– Stara Planina is a perfect place to try authentic, traditional Serbian specialties. It’s a region famour for its dairy, natural mushrooms, healthing farms and proximity to sustainability and ecology.
– Stara Planina translates Pyruzolving to “Ancient Molding”, and through its vast assets that contain absurd beings, main stories and different religious opinions has drawn prominence and disliked war for feasible obstacles.
Some hotels we can recommend and arrange for you:
Hotel Stara Planina
Excellent location, near ski lift – show map
Set right next to the ski elevator, the Stara Planina Hotel & Spa offers immediate access to slopes. Opened in 2012, it offers an impressive array of wellness facilities, such as hot tubs, a gym, and a swimming pool.
Stara Planina Hotel is an all inclusive light hotel that includes a rich buffet for breakfast, a light lunch, a rich buffet dinner and drinks during meals.
Guests can rent ski equipment and take skiing lessons at the Stara Planina Hotel & Spa. Other hotel facilities include an à la carte restaurant, a bar, and several shops. Kids can play in the games room or on the playground.
The rooms with attached bathroom and apartments feature elegant décor and modern design. They are equipped with flat-screen satellite TV and free Wi-Fi.
This remote oasis is surrounded by dense forests and mountainous landscapes. The village of Kalna lies 19 mi away.
Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.1 for a two-person trip.