Stara Planina Mountain

Stara Planina mountain is the largest mountain in eastern Serbia and a massif which forms a natural border with Bulgaria. It is located 330 km from Belgrade, 70 km from Niš and 50 km from Knjaževac and Pirot. Babin Zub, situated at an elevation of 1,758m, is one of the most beautiful landscapes of Stara Planina. The striking rocks of Babin Zub end to the southeast of Midzor (2,169m high), the highest peak of Stara Planina and Serbia. Babin Zub is a protected natural reserve. This and other peaks  are true challenge for remarkably endurance climbers and mountaineers. Stara Planina mountain also features excellent terrains for mountain biking, canyoning, trekking, endurance and gliding. Stara planina is almost five months covered with snow, on its ski terrains at the altitude between 1100 and 1900 meters, providing excellent conditions for ski and winter sports.

The Stara Planina area is extremely attractive also for the rural tourism, with the increasing number of categorized households in picturesque villages. The nature is intact and convenient for walks and medicinal herb picking. A rich ancient and medieval heritage is also present there, as well as interesting folklore habits. The cuisine is original and it is a tradition of this region. On the Eastern slopes of the Stara Planina a hunting ground under the same name is located. In the Timok valley, especially around Knjazevac, there are villages with the vine growing, famous for centuries for outstanding wines.

Have you ever tried the Stara Planina hard cheese? If not, make sure you taste this unique product on your fist visit to this gorgeous Mountain – Beauty. Locals say the best way to feel the richness of the herbs of Stara Planina Mountain is through the taste of the sheep’s milk, from which hard and matured pirotski kackavalj cheese is produced.  

Museums, handcraft exhibitions, rural tourism suppliers, churches, monasteries and the other sights of interest give a full idea of the Stara Planina region’s cultural and historical heritage, its traditional arts, unique crafts as pottery and folklore. The precious Pirot ćilims – wool carpets preserve the century old tradition of Stara Planina and are famous for their extraordinary quality, creativity of design and patterns, and beauty of colors.

The stunning beauty of its unspoiled nature makes Stara Planina the most beautiful mountain in eastern Serbia and one of its most important areas for tourism. It is a natural treasure of exceptional importance and is a protected natural park.

More information about Stara Planina HERE.