Tara Mountain, located in western Serbia, is a part of the Dinaric Alps and is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and outdoor activities. Here are some reasons why Tara Mountain is worth visiting:
Tara National Park: The mountain is home to Tara National Park, which boasts dense forests, pristine rivers, and diverse wildlife, including the rare and endangered Serbian spruce.
Spectacular Scenery: The park offers breathtaking landscapes with deep canyons, high cliffs, and panoramic views, especially from lookout points like Banjska Stena, which provides a stunning view of the Drina River canyon.
Hiking and Trails: Tara Mountain has an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails suitable for all levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes, offering an immersive experience in nature.
Wildlife Watching: The national park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s home to bears, wolves, lynxes, and numerous bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife watching.
Lake Perućac: This beautiful artificial lake offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The lake’s clear waters and surrounding scenery make it a popular spot for relaxation and water sports.
Rafting on the Drina River: The Drina River, with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, is ideal for rafting. It provides both thrilling rapids and peaceful stretches for a memorable adventure.
Cultural Heritage: Explore traditional Serbian villages with their authentic wooden houses and experience the local way of life. Visit the Rača Monastery, a significant Serbian Orthodox monastery with a rich history.
Outdoor Activities: In addition to hiking and rafting, Tara Mountain offers opportunities for cycling, horseback riding, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Photography: The diverse landscapes, flora, and fauna make Tara Mountain a paradise for photographers, offering countless opportunities to capture the natural beauty.
Eco-tourism and Sustainability: Tara Mountain is a great destination for eco-tourism, with a focus on sustainable practices and preserving the natural environment.
Flora and Fauna: The park is rich in plant species, including endemic ones like the Pancic Spruce. It’s an excellent destination for botanists and nature lovers.
Peace and Tranquility: The serene and unspoiled environment of Tara Mountain provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a tranquil retreat in nature.
Tara Mountain’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful getaway.
Some fun facts about Tara:
Johnny Depp has a notable connection to Tara Mountain through his friendship with Emir Kusturica, a renowned Serbian filmmaker. Kusturica owns a village called Drvengrad (also known as Küstendorf), located near Tara Mountain, which he built for his film “Life is a Miracle.” The village has since become a cultural center and tourist attraction.
In 2010, Johnny Depp visited Drvengrad as a guest of Emir Kusturica during the Küstendorf Film and Music Festival. His visit brought significant international attention to the area and highlighted the beauty and cultural richness of Tara Mountain and its surroundings.
Key Points about the Connection:
Emir Kusturica and Drvengrad (Mećavnik Resort): Kusturica’s traditional wooden village near Tara Mountain serves as a cultural hub and hosts the annual Küstendorf Film and Music Festival.
Johnny Depp’s Visit: Depp’s visit to Drvengrad in 2010 for the film festival helped promote the area and drew global attention to its attractions.
Cultural Significance: Depp’s visit underscores the cultural importance of Drvengrad and Tara Mountain, showcasing the blend of natural beauty and cultural activities available in the region.
This connection between a Hollywood star and Tara Mountain highlights the unique allure of the region and its appeal to international visitors.
Some hotels we can recommend and arrange for you:
Mecavnik Resort
Located in the unique tourist complex of Drvengrad and offering a spa center and a swimming pool, Mecavnik Resort provides accommodations in a structure made of locally sourced wood. Free WiFi is available in common areas.
Brightly furnished rooms are decorated with wood details and include air-conditioning as well as cable TV. Private bathrooms consist of a bath or a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer.
Within the Drvengrad complex guests can enjoy local delicacies at the restaurant or have a drink at the bar. A tennis and basketball court, as well as a fitness center can also be found on site.
Activities like hiking, skiing and cycling can be enjoyed in the surrounding area. Sargan Mokra Gora Nature Park is at a distance of 5 mi, while the Tara Mountain National Park is 8.1 mi away. The Zlatibor ski area can be reached in 25 mi.
Free public parking is provided within walking distance from Resort Mecavnik. Belgrade is 124 mi away, while the nearest airport is Nikola Tesla International Airport, 133 mi away.
Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.4 for a two-person trip.