Tara National Park
Tara National Park
Tara National Park in Serbia is a stunning place that looks like it's straight out of a fairytale. Located in western Serbia, this protected area covers around 25,000 hectares and is famous for its dense pine forests, deep gorges, and the impressive Drina River canyon.
The park is home to one of Europe's best-preserved forests, with some trees estimated to be over 300 years old. One of the biggest stars of the park is the Drina River with its crystal-clear emerald waters. The viewpoint at Banjska Stena offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the entire Balkans.
What makes Tara truly special is its biodiversity. It's a sanctuary for the endangered Serbian spruce (Picea omorika), a rare tree species discovered in the late 19th century. The park is also home to brown bears, wolves, and over 153 species of birds.
The area has a rich cultural heritage too. Throughout history, it was influenced by various civilizations, from Illyrians and Romans to Ottomans. Local villages maintain traditional lifestyles, with wooden houses and small farms dotting the landscape. The nearby Rača Monastery, dating back to the 13th century, adds a touch of spiritual history to the region.
Whether you're into hiking, wildlife spotting, or just soaking in spectacular views, Tara National Park offers a pristine slice of nature that's surprisingly uncrowded compared to other European parks.
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Things to do in Tara National Park
Top things to do in Tara National Park by sofiaadventures.com
Where to stay in Tara National Park
Best hotels in Tara National Park:
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Garni Hotel Vila Drina (budget hotel)
Garni Hotel Vila Drina is a charming spot in Tara National Park. The hotel's location is a real highlight - it's right by the river with great views of the surrounding nature. The rooms are cozy and have all the basics you need, plus some nice extras like coffee makers and minibars.
One of the best things about staying here is the breakfast. It's served at the restaurant next door, which has an awesome terrace overlooking a waterfall. Talk about a scenic way to start your day! The staff are super friendly too and always happy to give tips on hiking trails and other things to do in the area.
While the rooms aren't huge, they're comfortable enough. And let's be honest - you're here for the great outdoors, not to hang out inside all day. Overall, it's a solid choice if you want a relaxing base to explore Tara National Park from. Just be sure to book early in peak season since it's pretty popular.
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Mecavnik Resort (resort)
Mecavnik Resort is a charming spot tucked away in Serbia's Tara National Park. The wooden buildings and rustic decor give it a cozy, old-world feel that transports you to another time. But don't let the traditional look fool you - the resort has plenty of modern amenities to keep guests comfortable.
The on-site restaurant serves up hearty Serbian dishes, perfect after a day of hiking or skiing in the surrounding mountains. And when you're ready to relax, the spa and indoor pool are great for unwinding. One of the coolest features is the small movie theater showing films by famous Serbian director Emir Kusturica, who actually created this unique resort village.
While it can get busy during peak seasons, Mecavnik generally has a laid-back vibe that lets you escape the hustle and bustle. Whether you're into outdoor adventures or just want to chill out in a picturesque mountain setting, it's worth checking out this one-of-a-kind place in Serbia.
book now on booking.com