3 Best Ski Resorts in Serbia
Serbia is a hidden gem for people who want to enjoy winter sports but want to explore new and exciting mountains and locations. While the nation is known for tennis, basketball, and water polo, what many sports lovers don’t know is that the country has some of the most beautiful ski runs we’ve seen.
With a growing reputation for offering a wide variety of runs, from novice-friendly slopes to thrilling challenges for seasoned skiers, Serbia cuts its name in the European ski scene. Its 29 ski resorts offer 99 kilometers of slopes, reachable by 86 lifts.
Still, how can one choose between 29 excellent resorts? Determining which location has the greatest value can be challenging. Every skier has their own needs and preferences, which is why individual reviews can vary. However, we’ve tried to compile a list based on not just our own opinions but also the opinions of numerous athletes and recreationists who’ve visited them.
Some of these visitors were family people who went on a relaxing vacation; others were professional skiers who practiced for competitions and wanted to conquer another mountain. This gave us a well-rounded opinion of the quality of these locations.
Without further ado, here is our choice of the three best ski resorts in Serbia:
1. Ski Resort Kopaonik, Kopaonik
One of the best resorts in the Balkans
Kopaonik is the largest and best-known ski resort in Serbia—and for good reason. It has 38 ski runs, 55 km of which are for alpine skiing and 12 km of which are for Nordic skiing. The resort features several lighted runs, perfect for those looking to ski at night. Kopaonik also offers a secure “ski kindergarten” area where the youngest ones can learn how to ski. The resort features an artificial snowing system that covers around 97% of the resort, prolonging the skiing season.
The 24 ski lifts and chairlifts, which vary in accessibility and type, can accommodate over 32,000 skiers per hour. Some of them take you to a resort offering a sightseeing tour of the mountain, including a trip to Pancicev Vrh, Kopaonik’s tallest peak.
Kopaonik also offers other activities, including a snowboard park, hiking and trekking trails, and snowmobile rides.
2. Tornik Ski Resort, Zlatibor
Best for tourists
Aerial view of Tornik ski resort. © Slasta20 | Dreamstime.com
Tornik Ski Resort is located on Zlatibor, one of the most beautiful mountains in Serbia. It is situated at an altitude of between 1,110 and 1,490m, 9 km from the tourist resort of Zlatibor. The total capacity of the ski area is about 5,400 skiers per hour. Tornik Ski Resort is equipped with a six-seater chairlift with a capacity of 3,000 skiers per hour and two T-bar ski lifts with a total capacity of 2,400 skiers per hour. An artificial snowing system is installed on four runs: Cigota, Tornik, Ribnica, and Zmajevac, so this ski resort does not depend on weather conditions.
What makes Tornik stand out is the tubing, a particular type of installation that can be used during winter and summer, which is one of the most sought-after attractions. There is also a carousel and a children’s playground, making the resort suitable for skiers of all ages.
Zlatibor is a popular tourist location, not just during winter but also in summer. It has numerous cafes, restaurants, and sightseeing spots that make it one of the most famous locations in Serbia.
3. Babin Zub Ski Resort, Stara Planina
Best value for the price
Babin Zub Ski Resort is not as popular as Tornik or Zlatibor, but the number of visitors is slowly growing. Stara Planina (meaning “Old Mountain”) is considered one of Serbia’s most beautiful natural resources. As the largest mountain in eastern Serbia, it’s covered in snow for almost five months a year, making it perfect for skiers. The ski resort is located near its highest peak, having excellent potential for long runs. To ensure skiing through the largest part of the year, there is an artificial snowing system.
Babin Zub’s six ski lifts can accommodate around 3,000 skiers per hour. In fact, Stara Planina has the first gondola lift in Serbia–an eight-seater gondola on Jabučko Ravnište.
As Stara Planina is still developing, it is likely to become one of the most important ski resorts in the country.
Honorable Mentions
Next to these three, there are a few other resorts that deserve to be mentioned. This includes:
- Goč Ski Resort, with two ski runs intended for those with moderate to intermediate skiing levels.
- Brezovica Ski Resort, a resort with nine runs, five lifts, and 3,500 meters of slope.
- Divčibare Ski Resort, a popular spot for beginners and families with children.
- Golija Ski Resort, another great spot for novice skiers with seven runs (and more are in development).
- Zlatar Ski Resort, located near Zlatibor, famous for its lighted runs and night skiing.
While not as renowned as the ones we’ve mentioned and certainly not as versatile, they are quite affordable, making them an excellent choice for skiers on a budget or those looking to avoid crowded slopes.
What Makes Serbia a Great Destination for Skiing
Due to its diversified mountain ranges, newly established skiing centers, and affordability, Serbia has lately become a popular destination for this winter sport. There are several areas where tourists can enjoy skiing in the country, from those acceptable for beginners up to the most challenging ones. The ski resorts have modern lift systems, cozy accommodation facilities, bars for après-ski, spas, and restaurants, making your time here even more comfortable and enjoyable.
Among Serbia’s other positive features is its mild winter climate, which provides unhindered skiing throughout the season without excessive cold, something many other European destinations struggle with.
Another important factor is the relatively cheap accommodation, ski lift, and services compared to Western Europe. This makes visitors’ experiences far cheaper than those offered within Western Europe.
Serbian hospitality and local cuisine are equally abundant, making it an extra worthwhile combination of adventure and cultural exposure during skiing.
