The Stara Planina (Balkan Mountains) is one of the most authentic and unspoiled mountain regions in Serbia, known for its wide open landscapes, deep valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional mountain villages. The region is home to remarkable natural landmarks such as the Bigar Stream Valley, the rock formations of Babin Zub, and Midžor (2169 m), the highest peak of Stara Planina in Serbia. Designated as a national park in 2022, Stara Planina remains a true mountain sanctuary where nature and tradition coexist. This tour combines carefully selected hikes with authentic village accommodation, offering an immersive experience of this unique mountain region.
Tour plan:
Departure from Belgrade at 7:30 a.m. from a pre-arranged location. The journey continues along the highway to Niš, followed by a scenic drive through Svrljig and Kalna. Approximately 5 km from Kalna, we visit Bigar Waterfall (35 m), one of the most attractive natural sites in the region. After a short break, we proceed to the plateau near Hotel “Stara Planina” at Jabučko Ravnište. Following preparation, we begin our hike to Babin Zub (1758 m), one of the most picturesque peaks of Stara Planina, offering magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. After a lunch break in nature, we descend along the northern route to the mountain lodge and return to our starting point. The hike lasts approximately 4 hours and is of moderate difficulty, suitable for recreational hikers with basic physical fitness. After completing the tour, the group gathers and travels to the village of Crni Vrh. Dinner and overnight stay with local hosts.
After breakfast, we prepare for the hike and transfer to the mountain lodge at Babin Zub (1580 m). From there, we begin our ascent to Midžor (2169 m), the highest peak of Stara Planina in Serbia. The hiking distance from the lodge to the summit is 8.6 km, with an ascent time of approximately 3 hours under favorable weather conditions. After a break at the summit, we descend along the same trail back to the lodge, pack our equipment, and prepare for return journey, with a lunch break along the way. Arrival in Belgrade is expected in the late evening hours. End of program.
Details:
- Transportation by tourist-class van/minibus according to the program,
- One-night accommodation in private accommodation in Crni Vrh village (1/2, 1/3 and 1/4 rooms), on a half-board basis (breakfast and dinner included),
- Lunches on the 1st and 2nd day (as specified in the itinerary),
- Visit to Bigar Waterfall,
- Summit ascents according to the itinerary,
- Services of a licensed tour guide,
- Services of a licensed mountain guide,
- Residence tax,
- Organization costs and trip leadership.
- Travel health insurance (optional, with surcharge for extreme sports),
- Personal expenses.
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots, multiple pairs of socks, short-sleeve shirts, a light jacket with a hood (preferably waterproof), a fleece or sweatshirt, spare pants, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Optionally, you can bring some sweets, snacks, refreshing drinks, and water. All of this should fit into a small backpack.
Accommodation is organized in one of the rural households in the village of Crni Vrh, depending on availability. Guests stay in authentic mountain houses built in a traditional style, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Homemade meals prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients provide an authentic taste of the region and complete the mountain experience.
A 50% advance payment of the total arrangement price is required at the time of booking. The remaining amount must be paid no later than 20 days before the start of the trip (with the option of installment payments). This program is based on a minimum of 8 registered participants. In case of changes in the monetary market (or the market of goods and services) or an insufficient number of registered participants, the tour organizer reserves the right to adjust prices, modify the program, or cancel the trip no later than 5 days before the scheduled departure.
Trail profile – Day I: Total distance: 6 km; Total ascent: 258 m; Lowest point: 1500 m; Highest point: 1758 m.
Trail profile – Day II: Total distance: 17.2 km; Total ascent: 750 m; Lowest point: 1540 m; Highest point: 2169 m.
The organizer of the trip is travel agency Nature Travel Office, licence number OTP 38/2025 issued by the Business Register Agency as of May 06, 2025. Nature Travel Office is insured by an insurance policy against responsibility for travel agencies in case of insolvency and liability in case of damage to the traveller, number 30000058078, by the insurer MILENIJUM OSIGURANJE ADO Belgrade. The policy is valid from April 01, 2026 to April 01, 2027. In this program, travel agency Nature Travel Office applies their general terms and conditions of traveling, which are included in signing up for the trip.
