Fruska Gora National Park, the loneliest Serbian mountain

Fruska Gora National Park timidly breaks the boredom of the abundant flats of Vojvodina, the northern Serbian state. With its modest height of only 538 meters, tourists and hikers often avoid it for other higher and more challenging mountains in Serbia. Maybe Fruska Gora doesn’t have the most challenging trails, but it has a gift of an optimal geographical location, Hobbit-like forests, and rich history. It’s an important natural area, home to numerous rare animal and plant species and the birthplace of many flavorful wines. If you want to explore all of it, a few days would not be enough, as it has more than 170 recognized touristic locations.

Picnic areas of Fruska Gora National Park

For a perfect day excursion, you can choose from the ex-military bases turned into camping areas, numerous lakes, and meadows hidden deep in the forests, to the easy-to-reach spots with the stunning views. Some of the best viewpoints overlooking Novi Sad are "Dunavski vidikovac" in Popovica, "Kesten," easy to reach from Rakovac, and "Brankovac," easy to reach from Vrdnik spa.

There are also numerous lakes, just perfect for exploring during the long and hot summer days. Swimming is possible in most of them. Lake "Beli Kamen" has a calming light blue color, warm water, and interesting white rocks around it. Lake "Sot" offers a setting looking much like a fairy tale. Around the lake, you will find a deep forest and hills, and constant nature orchestra with birds and wind.

Monasteries of Fruska Gora

Fruska Gora used to house over 30 traditional Serbian Orthodox monasteries. Unfortunately only 17 of those survived over the time. According to the written sources, most of the monasteries were built between the 15th and 18th century. The monasteries are easily reachable from the main roads. Most of them are in scenic natural areas and, usually, there are natural springs and picnic areas nearby.

Where to stay

There are many options for accommodation close to the most popular touristic spots. The countryside estate "Etno Budzak" is located at the basis of Fruška Gora. Another good option is the "Vila Milana" widely known for their great cuisine.

Vrdnik spa and nearby ethnic village, offer a couple of hotels, as well as more local and nostalgic accommodation with the emphasis on traditional arrangements and decorations.

It's also possible to find private accommodation in one of the small and scenic villages situated on the slopes of Fruska Gora, which will give you good opportunity to walk around, meet the local culture and taste some of the local wines. One of the option is a lovely village Sremski Karlovci, home to a sweet dessert wine of a divine taste.

For those interested in an active holiday, it's possible to camp in one of the organized camping areas on Fruska Gora, or join the Fruska Gora Mountain Marathon, and discover the national park through the long and slow walk and good company.