Things to Do in Mount Trebević, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина

Mount Trebević rises 1,627 meters above Sarajevo, serving as both a natural sanctuary and a poignant reminder of Bosnia and Herzegovina's complex history. Once the proud host of bobsled and luge events during the 1984 Winter Olympics, this mountain transformed from a symbol of international unity into a strategic military position during the 1992-1996 siege of Sarajevo. Today, visitors can explore the haunting remnants of the Olympic bobsled track, now covered in vibrant street art, while enjoying panoramic views of the capital city below. The mountain offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, historical reflection, and urban escape just minutes from Sarajevo's bustling streets. Hiking trails wind through dense forests of beech and pine, leading to viewpoints that showcase the dramatic landscape of the Dinaric Alps. The recently restored cable car system provides easy access to the summit, making Trebević an essential destination for understanding both Bosnia's Olympic glory and its resilient recovery from conflict.

Top Things to Do in Mount Trebević

Explore the Abandoned Olympic Bobsled Track

Walk along the concrete remnants of the 1984 Winter Olympics bobsled and luge track, now transformed into an open-air gallery of street art and graffiti. The 1,365-meter track offers a surreal experience as nature slowly reclaims this Olympic venue, while colorful murals tell stories of hope, resistance, and renewal. The track provides multiple vantage points overlooking Sarajevo and serves as a powerful symbol of the city's resilience.

Booking Tip: Access is free and the track is open year-round, but visit during daylight hours for safety and better photography. Wear sturdy shoes as the concrete can be slippery, and bring water as there are no facilities along the track. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, with wildflowers blooming around the structure.

Ride the Trebević Cable Car

Take the restored cable car system that reopened in 2018, connecting Sarajevo's Bistrik neighborhood to Vidikovac station on Mount Trebević. The 2.7-kilometer journey offers stunning aerial views of the city, the Miljacka River valley, and surrounding mountains. At the top, you'll find restaurants, walking trails, and the starting point for exploring the mountain's attractions.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around 15-20 BAM for a round trip and can be purchased at the base station. Operating hours vary seasonally, typically 9 AM to 8 PM in summer and shorter hours in winter. Avoid weekends and holidays if you prefer smaller crowds, and check weather conditions as the cable car may close during high winds.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Explore numerous hiking trails that crisscross Mount Trebević, ranging from easy family-friendly walks to more challenging mountain hikes. The trails lead through pristine forests, past mountain springs, and to scenic viewpoints offering 360-degree views of Sarajevo and the surrounding Dinaric Alps. Popular routes include the path to Colina Kapa peak and the circular trail around the summit area.

Booking Tip: Hiking is free but bring appropriate gear including sturdy boots, weather protection, and plenty of water. Trail markers can be inconsistent, so consider downloading offline maps or hiring a local guide for 50-100 BAM per day. Best hiking conditions are from May to October, with early morning starts recommended in summer.

Visit War Tunnels and Historical Sites

Discover remnants of military positions and tunnels used during the 1992-1996 siege, when Mount Trebević served as a strategic vantage point. Several preserved bunkers and defensive positions offer insight into this difficult period of Sarajevo's history. Local guides can provide context about the mountain's role during the conflict and its significance in the city's survival.

Booking Tip: Access to most sites is free, but guided tours cost 30-80 BAM and provide valuable historical context that enhances the experience. Book through local tour operators or hotels, and be prepared for emotionally challenging content. Tours operate year-round but are most comfortable in moderate weather conditions.

Mountain Biking and Adventure Sports

Experience thrilling mountain biking trails that wind down from Trebević's summit through forest paths and former Olympic venues. The mountain also offers opportunities for rock climbing, paragliding, and in winter, skiing and snowshoeing. Adventure sports operators in Sarajevo organize equipment rental and guided excursions suitable for various skill levels.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals start around 25 BAM per day, with guided tours costing 60-120 BAM including equipment. Book with established operators who provide safety gear and insurance coverage. Spring through fall offers optimal conditions for most activities, while winter sports are possible from December to March depending on snow conditions.

Getting There

Mount Trebević is easily accessible from Sarajevo, located just 10 kilometers southeast of the city center. The most convenient way to reach the mountain is via the Trebević Cable Car, which departs from the Bistrik neighborhood near the old town and takes about 10 minutes to reach the summit station. Alternatively, you can drive via the winding mountain road from Pale or take local buses that run to the base of the mountain, though these require additional hiking to reach the main attractions. Taxis from central Sarajevo to the cable car station cost around 10-15 BAM.

Getting Around

Once on Mount Trebević, most attractions are accessible on foot via well-marked walking paths and hiking trails. The cable car station serves as the main hub, with the Olympic bobsled track about a 15-minute walk away and various viewpoints within easy walking distance. For longer hikes or reaching more remote areas, sturdy hiking boots are essential as terrain can be uneven and rocky. During winter months, some paths may require additional caution due to snow and ice. Mountain bikes can be rented for exploring wider areas of the mountain more efficiently.

Where to Stay

Sarajevo Old Town (Baščaršija)

Sarajevo City Center

Bistrik Neighborhood

Pale Town

Jahorina Mountain Resort

East Sarajevo

Food & Dining

Dining options on Mount Trebević itself are limited but growing, with several restaurants and cafes near the cable car summit station offering traditional Bosnian cuisine and spectacular views over Sarajevo. Most visitors eat in Sarajevo before or after their mountain visit, where the food scene ranges from traditional ćevapi and burek to international cuisine. The Bistrik neighborhood, near the cable car base station, has several good restaurants serving local specialties. For a unique experience, some tour operators organize traditional Bosnian barbecue picnics on the mountain during warmer months.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Mount Trebević is from late spring through early fall (May to October) when weather conditions are most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities, and the cable car operates on its full schedule. Summer months offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for exploring the bobsled track and hiking trails, though this is also the busiest period. Spring and early fall provide comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colors. Winter visits are possible and offer a different perspective with snow-covered landscapes, but some trails may be inaccessible and weather can change rapidly in the mountains.

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography at the bobsled track and to avoid crowds at the cable car

Bring layers of clothing as mountain weather can change quickly, and temperatures at the summit are typically 5-10 degrees cooler than in Sarajevo

Combine your Trebević visit with exploring Sarajevo's old town since the cable car base station is within walking distance of major historical sites

Things to Do in Mount Trebević