This article focuses on places to explore in the Balkans for those with ecotourism in their mind. I chose these places based on my experience living in Serbia for nine years and exploring many nations in the Balkans during this time. After reading this post, you will better understand where to go when planning your ecotourism Balkan trip.
Exploring the Balkans was one of the most beautiful experiences in my journey so far!! I love that most of nature is untouched, and most of the places are not packed with people, which strengthens the connection with the environment.
If you are looking for ideas for your next Balkan trip, this post will help you choose places to explore and enrich your experience in the Balkans in the same way that enriched mine.
We will visit each country in the Balkans in this article and discuss ecotourism spots and the types of activities you can do while connecting with their culture.
Are you ready? Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
How is the Ecotourism scene in the Balkans?
The Balkans, a region rich in natural beauty and cultural diversity, is becoming an excellent destination for ecotourism. Better prices than Western Europe and a wide range of ecotourism options are among the reasons why this part of the world is catching the eyes of many.
Accessibility to these ecotourism sites varies depending on the country. Major cities such as Belgrade, Sofia, and Zagreb are convenient entry points with international airports and well-connected transportation networks.
Once within the region, you can access many ecotourism destinations via public transportation, including buses and trains. However, to reach more remote areas that public transport may not cover, I recommend renting a car or joining a group tour with an agency.
The range of ecotourism options in the Balkans is extensive, and it’s growing as the infrastructure slowly improves. This article includes only places I experienced or that are part of my to-do list for later.
Best time for an Eco Balkan Trip?
Summer is always the best season for a Balkan trip, people are outside, and the weather is better for most activities. Even though winter hiking is possible, most of the places in this list will give you a better experience during the summer.
Global warming is a serious issue, and its consequences can be felt in many places. With that being said, you can experience warm weather in some places during the winter. Another consequence is longer springs, which can make a visit to Greece in September a pleasant one. Years ago, it would be a bad choice to visit a place near the beach in September because the weather would be too cold, but things are a bit different now.
If you plan to do winter sports, it is essential to check the weather and the amount of snow available. The temperature during the winter season is very unpredictable and sometimes confusing nowadays. Depending on the destination and activities you are willing to do, planning the best time for a Balkan trip can be tricky.
My recommendation is simple: Check the local newspapers for more information about the weather in the destination. Generally, choosing a time to visit places near the sea will be less tricky as long as it is not winter.
Greece
Greece is a wonderful destination for a Balkan trip focused on ecotourism due to its diverse landscapes and commitment to sustainable travel practices. The country offers a variety of natural environments, from the beaches of its numerous islands to the mountain ranges of the mainland.
Besides the ecotourism opportunities, the country has one of the most delicious cuisines I have tried in my life!! Food in Greece is amazing, and it is also a way for Greek people to connect with each other. In addition to that, when exploring Greece, you will have the chance to meet very kind and fun people. This country also has a special place in my heart.
Now let’s talk about the ecotourism spots:
Lefkada
Lefkada, an island in the Ionian Sea of Greece, is an exceptional destination for ecotourism due to its natural landscapes and beaches with crystal-blue waters. One of the most famous activities on the island is Kite surfing.
There are two main spots: one with small waves, perfect for beginners, at the Kite Club Greece, where I had my KiteSurf lessons. The other spot has stronger winds and bigger waves for those with better skills. My experience learning kite surfing at the Kite Club Greece could have been better. My friend Tzach and I felt our instructor wasn’t able to teach us how to kite. However, there are plenty of other schools in the same area for you to choose.
If you are into hiking, you shouldn’t miss the Dimossari Waterfalls, a beautiful walk that leaves from Nidri and passes along various fields and olive groves to get to the waterfalls. Another option is to hike through the Melissa Gorge, where you will be surrounded by traditional Greek flora.
Santorini
Santorini was a big surprise for me, in a good way. If you open Instagram and type Santorini, you will see thousands of pictures of people posing on the very “Instagramable” roofs and fancy restaurants in the area. After arriving there and talking to the locals, I discovered the island is much more than that!!
You can imagine how happy I was to hear there was an amazing hiking trail between Oia and Fira, where the blessed views of the Skaros Rock are on the way. To explore the island, you can rent a bicycle, scooter, or an ATV, depending on your preference.
For further exploration of the island, you can hop on a tour to visit the Nea Kameni Volcanic Park. The volcano is active, and its last eruption was in 1950. The area around the volcano is home to a unique ecosystem, with rare plants and animals adapted to the harsh conditions.
Crete
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a fantastic destination with several hiking trails waiting for you to explore them. The most famous place to explore is the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest gorges.
Besides the gorge, there are many hiking trails around Sougia in the southern part of the island. The island’s northern part is better for exploration and learning more about Greek history and hospitality. You will be amazed at how friendly and open Greeks are. On top of that, their cuisine is just great!!
Another great way I found to be active during my exploration in Crete was to go for early morning running sessions at the beach. If you are into running, you will be pleased with the island’s great views and chill vibes.
Serbia
Serbia is the destination of this list where I explored the most!! After visiting many untouched places I can confirm the country is an ecotourism hidden gem. The country boasts numerous national parks, nature reserves, and rivers, providing a wide range of ecotourism activities.
National parks like Tara, Kopaonik, and Fruska Gora offer several hiking trails, spectacular views, and birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Since I moved to the country in 2015, ecotourism has grown significantly. The number of agencies offering tours has increased, and public transportation has improved in some parts of the country. There is still much work to improve the infrastructure, but things are improving slowly.
I will list my top three choices for anyone who wants to dive into ecotourism in Serbia. If you want more information about other places in the country, check the articles I wrote about the country below:
Read about more ecotourism in Serbia:
- Rafting in Serbia: A comprehensive guide
- Mountains in Serbia: A comprehensive guide
- Hiking in Serbia: 10 places for beginners
- Serbia Ski Resorts: Ultimate guide to skiing in Serbia
- Cycling from Belgrade to Novi Sad: Everything you need to know
- Canyon of the River Pek and the Serbian Desert
- Kayaking in Belgrade
Kopaonik
Kopaonik is the most famous mountain range in Serbia, and it is an exceptional destination for ecotourism during the winter or summer. As one of Serbia’s largest national parks, Kopaonik hosts a variety of wildlife, including rare birds, mammals, and over 1,500 plant species.
During the summer, the park is a heaven for hikers and nature lovers. It is one of my favorite places in Serbia, where I can connect with nature and escape the busy city life. There are many hiking trails that please hikers of all levels, passing by lush forests and viewpoints.
During the winter, the park transforms into the biggest ski resort in the Balkans. Many people from neighboring countries visit the park to explore its many ski tracks. For those with a higher level of winter sports experience, there are many opportunities for off-road skiing/snowboarding.
Tara National Park
Tara Mountain, located in the western part of Serbia, offers a unique mix of lush forests, lakes, and wild terrain, making it a perfect destination for hiking. The mountain is part of the Dinaric Alps and boasts diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species and diverse wildlife.
The mountain has an extensive network of trails that will please hikers of all levels, varying from less demanding walks to demanding treks. The paths are well-marked, and you’ll encounter waterfalls, ancient caves, and panoramic viewpoints that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Besides hiking and trekking, the park is also one of the most famous spots for rafting in Serbia. If you want to get wet during your ecotourism Balkan trip, add this place to your list.
Fruska Gora
Fruska Gora has an extensive network of trails for hiking and mountain biking. It is quite easy to get lost there. Most calls for help in Serbia from lost people in nature come from Fruska Gora.
It is a beautiful national park and a perfect destination for a day tour from Belgrade. If you plan to spend multiple days exploring the park, spending a few days in Novi Sad is an excellent idea to set up a base in case you want to avoid camping.
If you want to camp, there are several places to choose from. Depending on your preferences, if you want to be in a more mountain landscape, Letenka or Brankovac are good options. If you want to be closer to monasteries, visit Jazak, Besenovo, or Mala Rameta.
Journey Through Serbia: The Ecotourism Travel Guide You Need
Get your hands on the ultimate travel guide to uncover the hidden gems of ecotourism in Serbia. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the country like a local!
Bosnia
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country that I managed to explore, but not as much as Serbia. However, during my visits and talks with locals, I got a lot of recommendations for ecotourism activities. Most of the places I visited felt very untouched, and the infrastructure was poor in most of the country.
I recommend renting a car and exploring the country, or looking for agencies to facilitate the logistics of visiting some places. For Bosnia, I added two places I managed to visit by myself and transformed my view of the country.
Thinking about flying to Bosnia? Check flight options on Kiwi, it's my favorite way to book plane tickets:
The country’s diverse terrain includes lush forests, rivers, and mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and wildlife spotting.
One of my most enriching experiences in Bosnia was visiting smaller towns. In these towns, I had the opportunity to learn a lot about the country’s history. Places like Visegrad, Mostar, and Pocitelj have many histories to tell.
Sarajevo, the country’s capital, is a city where you can learn a lot about the past of Bosnia. Several museums were built in the city, and many of them require a strong stomach to digest the country’s bloody past.
Jahorina
Jahorina is the most famous mountain in Bosnia, shining all year round. It’s a perfect place to visit anytime for hiking, mountain bike tours, or winter sports. The best way to reach the mountain is by car, although some agencies offer tours from Sarajevo or Serbia.
Jahorina is a more affordable ecotourism option than Kopaonik. For winter sports, the mountain offers several wide ski tracks that are perfect for middle-level skiers and snowboarders. Although there are blue tracks for beginners in the ski resort, they are much harder than blue tracks in other ski resorts I have been to.
During the summer, the mountain offers many hiking trails that please hikers of all levels. You will find a variety of accommodations, including lodges and cabins. Prices for lodging, dining, and activities are generally lower than other European destinations, making it a budget-friendly choice for your Balkan trip.
Sutjeska
Sutjeska is the oldest national park in Bosnia, and its beauty makes many Bosnians very proud. Ask a local about the national park, and they will fill their chests to brag about how beautiful and preserved it is. They are not wrong, though. After visiting it, I can confirm it is a hidden gem in the Balkans.
The best time to visit is summer and spring since the park has an extensive network of hiking trails. If you want to explore the national park deeply, you can stay at Hotel Mladost or any other accommodation near the entrance to organize a multi-day trek. The hotel serves as a good base, and you can explore a different part of Sutjeska each day.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a very affordable country in the Balkans. It has diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. The natural highlights are the Rila and Pirin mountains. During the winter, Pirin transforms into the Bansko Ski Resort, which has wide ski tracks to please adventurers of all levels.
Planning a winter sports adventure in Bansko? Start your day early. It can take some time with only one gondola to transport everyone to the Piri mountain. The gondola can get busy quickly, so early birds can quickly reach the mountain and catch the best ski tracks.
Summertime brings three great hiking options in the country: Pirin, Rila, and the Central Balkan National Parks. Plovdiv can be an excellent place to set up a base if you plan to explore the Central Balkan Park. It takes only one hour to drive to the mountain. Plovdiv is one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe. Its history and culture are rich, so a stop there for a few days is a good idea to enrich your Balkan trip.
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Rila National Park
I have yet to visit this national park, but it is on my list for my next Balkan trip. With a whole plan already crafted to explore it, I will tell you everything I prepared for my adventure. Rila is the biggest national park in the country, and it has many places to explore hiking.
I plan to do a two-day hike from the Rila Monastery, passing by the seven lakes and visiting the Malyovitsa peak. The first day is a 20km hike from the Monastery to the seven lakes. The second day is an 18km hike from the seven lakes back to the Monastery, passing by the Haramiyata and Malyovitsa peaks.
Another hike in my plan is the Musala Peak, the highest peak in the Balkans at 2925m. Include all of these hikes in your Balkan trip to Bulgaria, and you will end up with at least four days of exploration.
Bansko
In my experience, Bansko is the third-best ski resort in the Balkans, after Kopaonik and Jahorina. I went there during the winter and spent a few days snowboarding. Most of my experience was good, except there was only one gondola to bring everybody from Bansko to the Ski Resort. Since it was a holiday, leaving the accommodation very early was necessary to avoid the crowd and get to the gondola.
On the second day of my Balkan trip, I decided to start a bit late. I left my accommodation around 8 a.m. and started snowboarding only around 11 a.m.!! It was a very frustrating experience because the only alternative was to pay a high price for a taxi ride. Paying for a ride was an option only in theory because the police were there checking for drivers bringing people to the mountains and applying fines to them.
Besides the frustrating experience of getting to the mountain, the tracks were fantastic!! The Ski Resort has enough tracks to entertain anyone for 2-4 days, depending on their level.
During the summer, the Ski Resort changes its vibes and colors, bringing a new type of life to the environment. Hiking and trekking are common activities in Bulgaria, and the Pirin Mountains offer plenty of trails for adventurers.
Montenegro
Montenegro is a small country with good potential for ecotourism. The infrastructure is less developed than in other parts of the Balkans, but it is still enough to give you a nice experience. Most of the country is generally very affordable, with some exceptions, like Budva, where prices are very high. Rising prices are one of the reasons many people started exploring Albania during the summer, which is more affordable than Montenegro.
If you are a fan of kitesurfing or want to start your journey learning this sport, Montenegro has the right spot for you. Ada Bojana is a small island located in the southern part of the country, near the border with Albania. The calm waters and lack of waves make this place an excellent spot for kitesurfers!!
I once went on a cycling tour from Montenegro to Albania, and it was enjoyable!! The roads were much better than I expected, with only a few tricky parts in Montenegro. Albania was a great country to explore cycling, at least in the northern part.
Montenegro houses one of Europe’s most famous national parks for hiking adventures. Durmitor is a UNESCO World Heritage site with one of the deepest canyons in Europe, the Tara Canyon. The site offers many activities besides hiking: skiing, rafting, and mountain biking. One can spend multiple days in the area, always finding something new to do.
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Ada Bojana
Ada Bojana is a triangular island at the southern tip of Montenegro, where the Bojana River meets the Adriatic Sea. The island is renowned for its alternative vibes and beautiful sunsets. Due to its geographical location, the waters are calm, and the waves are very small. The island is relatively close to Italy, which prevents winds from blowing uninterrupted across the water’s surface, resulting in small waves.
Because of its calm waters, the island is a paradise for kitesurfers, mainly if you are learning the sport. Several kite schools were built on its beautiful beaches, and prices are more affordable than in other parts of Europe.
Ada Bojana hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Ada Divine Awakening, a retreat focused on life transformation and consciousness. You will find many DJs playing diverse types of music in the beach clubs on the island; there’s always something happening in Ada Bojana.
Cycling throughout the coast of Montenegro is also possible, even though the roads could be better for that. If you want more details about my cycling experience in Montenegro and Albania, check out this post.
If you want to be active on the beach, learn kitesurfing, or play beach volleyball with your friends, Ada Bojana is the right place! In addition, if you are looking for a chill place to relax, the island is also the right choice. Consider adding this place to your ecotourism Balkan trip.
Durmitor
Durmitor is a great destination for ecotourism and a good playground, offering opportunities for different activities. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Durmitor National Park is a natural wonder blessed with forests, lakes, and the Tara River Canyon, the second-deepest canyon in the world.
The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to diverse wildlife, including bears, wolves, and over 150 species of birds. Hiking and trekking are particularly the most popular activities in the park. The trails are well-marked, and hikers of different levels will be pleased during their explorations. The Black Lake (Crno Jezero) is a highlight, offering a spot for picnics, swimming, and kayaking.
Climbing to Bobotov Kuk is another highlight of the park, which has the highest peak in Durmitor. There are three main options to reach the peak, varying in distance and difficulty, making it easy to choose the right one.
During the winter, the park transforms itself into a small ski resort for winter sports enthusiasts. There are six ski tracks totaling 5km, so for beginners, it is a great place to start learning. Another good fact about the ski resort is the prices: the ski pass costs only 13 EUR.
Albania
Albania has been attracting many people in recent years, mainly during the summer, due to its iconic beaches. Many people I talked to about Albania told me they were visiting mainly because of the lower prices; the second reason was, “Why not?”.
I explored the seaside and mountains in the country enough to feel the will to return and see more. It is a country with good people, potential for ecotourism, and great food. Turkish, Greek, and Italian cuisines influence its cuisine.
My biggest surprise in the country was how well the roads in the north were maintained. I felt very safe cycling on the roads from Montenegro to Shkoder and from there to the National Park Theth. I want to go back there and explore the country by bicycle more.
If hiking is your thing, I recommend you visit the Theth and Valbona National Parks. Both offer several hiking trails with great views, allowing you to connect with nature in the country.
As for the seaside, Sarande is an excellent place to relax for a few days. The town itself is small, but it offers the opportunity to visit historical sites like Butrint, a city that holds a lot of history for those interested in learning about the area’s past. From Sarande, you can also hop on a boat to visit the beautiful island of Corfu in Greece.
Thinking about flying to Albania? Check flight options on Kiwi, it's my favorite way to book plane tickets:
Sarande
Sarande was unknown to me for many years until I went to Corfu in Greece and found out there was a boat that would take me there. So my first thought was, “Why not? Let’s see what’s in there.”
To my surprise, I was amazed by the kindness of the people I interacted with. The seafood was fresh and delicious, and the beaches were calm, with plenty of small rocks and light blue water. At the bay, a promenade can be used for a running session or a small walk.
For relaxation, Sarande is a good option for 1-3 days, depending on how much you want to immerse yourself in the town. One of the highlights in the area is the Butrint archaeological site, located a few kilometers away from Sarande. Butrint was an ancient Greek city that later became part of the Roman Empire, so it’s a place with a lot of history.
To add more activities to your ecotourism Balkan trip, you can also take a kayaking tour from Sarande to the Lukova caves. At the end of the tour, you will visit Krorëza Beach, which is not accessible by land.
Theth National Park
Theth National Park is located near the village of Theth, which has traditional stone houses and a centuries-old church. The village offers a glimpse into the region’s history and way of life. Theth’s isolation has helped preserve its unique cultural identity, allowing ecotourists to experience the hospitality and traditions of the local community.
The park has many hiking trails leading to stunning viewpoints and untouched nature. The highlights of the park are the Blue Eye, a natural spring, and the Theth Waterfall.
A legendary hike in the area is to visit Valbona from Theth passing through Valbona Pass. The hike is around 16 kilometers and can be completed within 6-10 hours depending on your fitness.
Croacia
Croatia is a country that boasts eight national parks and eleven nature parks, each with unique ecosystems and opportunities for outdoor activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly famous for its lakes and waterfalls. Similarly, Krka National Park offers ecotourists a chance to explore forests and swim in crystal-clear river pools.
Additionally, Croatia’s extensive coastline and islands are a paradise for many eco-friendly water activities. The Adriatic Sea is home to a variety of marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling, diving, and sailing. The country’s dedication to marine conservation is evident in areas like the Kornati Islands National Park.
I also encourage you to explore the small villages in the country to connect with the locals and learn their way of life. It was always interesting to hear from locals about life when Croatia was part of Yugoslavia.
Dubrovnik
If you know or have heard anything about Dubrovnik, you know it is a tourist place. Sadly, it is true, people say the TV show Game of Thrones is partially to blame. The city of only 41.000 inhabitants reached the point where it was receiving 1.5 million tourists in one year!!
So, the fact that a lot of people are visiting the place is a reason not to visit it? I don’t think so. Mass tourism is indeed a problem, and we, as ecotourists, should be conscious and respectful visitors. My approach when visiting Dubrovnik was to avoid the city center and visit local beaches and restaurants.
Luckily, I had the opportunity to meet an amazing resident who was kind enough to provide me with much information about less tourist parts of the city. The result of her recommendations was an amazing experience!! I visited places like the Sveti Jakov and Belvedere beaches.
Dubrovnik is a beautiful town, and two to four days are enough to experience it and have a good time. To add some activity and adrenaline to your visit, you can take a kayaking tour from the Old Town to the island of Locrum. Another excellent activity is to visit the Elaphiti archipelago, where you can swim and visit the Blue Cave.
Looking for exciting activities in Dubrovnik? Check the available options on the button below:
Krka & Plitvice
Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park are exceptional destinations to explore in Croatia and on your Balkan trip. Both parks are similar but have unique touches, with lakes, waterfalls, rich fauna, and flora awaiting you.
In Krka, activities such as bird watching, swimming in designated areas, and educational tours of the Park’s flora and fauna are available. The Park has 47km of hiking trails and bike routes for mountain and road bike lovers.
Boat tours are also available to explore the Torak Lake spring, Visovac Island, the Krka Monastery, and the Roski Slap waterfall. The network of hiking trails is extensive, and all trails are less than 10 kilometers long.
Plitvice Lakes National Park was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979, making it one of the oldest natural heritage sites in the world. The main attraction in the Park is the Lakes, divided into two sections: the Upper Lakes (Gornja jeera) and the Lower Lakes (Donja jeera), connected by a series of waterfalls and cascades.
Once in Plitvice, you can explore the Park by hiking, cycling, or rowing. During the winter, you can go snowboarding or skiing there; the Mukinje Ski Resort is small, with one lift and 1.5 kilometers of slopes. It’s ideal for those learning the sport since the ski pass is very cheap.
Plitvice is easily accessible by car or bus from major Croatian cities like Zagreb, Zadar, and Split, making it a convenient destination for your Balkan trip.
Looking for exciting activities in Plitvice? Check the available options on the button below:
Conclusion
The Balkans is by far my favorite part of the world!! After living in Serbia for nine years, I look back to all the places I had the opportunity to explore, and the only thing I feel is gratitude. This article aims to give you an overview of the best places to go for an ecotourism Balkan trip.
I hope that you have a better idea of the places you can explore in each country and the type of ecotourism activities you can do while traveling there. With some exceptions, most of the nature in the Balkans is truly untouched, which gives a feeling of deep connection with all these places.
If you learn something new or even add a new place to your Balkan trip, my mission has been accomplished!! Let me know about your travel plans in the comments section. Feel free to also leave your opinion about these places if you have already visited them; it will help future ecotourists.
See you all in the next article!! If you want to receive my latest articles about ecotourism directly in your email, consider subscribing to my newsletter to receive updates.
