Where to ski in Central Bosnia?

Do you know which country offers Europe’s best skiing on a budget? Emerging as the N°1 alternative to mass winter destinations, Bosnia & Herzegovina is definitely the best-kept winter secret in Europe. Whether you opt for the Olympic destinations of the capital city, the southern ski resorts near Mostar, or perhaps more remote slopes around Banja Luka, you will immerse yourself in a true snowy and budget-friendly wonderland. But if you are looking for the off-the-beaten-slope and least crowded locations, then ski resorts of Central Bosnia are the best choice for your winter adventures. Let me unveil three spots where you can ski in Central Bosnia.

Kupres Ski Resort

Ideally positioned - only two hours from Sarajevo, Banja Luka and Mostar, Kupres Ski Resort is one of the most remote winter destinations in the Balkans. Actually, even if you are in the city of Split on the Adriatic coast, in less than two hours you can put your skies on and enjoy winter landscapes. Therefore, Mount Kupres is a popular ski area for snow lovers that come from the Croatian coast. And there is one particularity everyone loves here – while on the skis, you will feel “the smell of the sea” due to its proximity. Amazing, right? What is even more amazing is a horse riding in the snow. It is totally worth trying.

Kupres Ski Resort has 13 km of groomed slopes between 1,317 m and 1,758 m of altitude. It encompasses four ski runs, with four ski lifts that can serve up to 5,000 skiers per hour. One can choose between two ski centres. The lower one is Adriaski, while the other one called Stožer-Vrana, has slopes at 1,758 m above sea level. This ski resort offers skiing, snowboarding, snow-riding, sledging, etc. On the top of this comes night skiing for real ski junkies, followed by rich nightlife. 

Ski center Rostovo

Ski center Rostovo is situated 12 km from the town called Bugojno, in the region of Central Bosnia. It actually belongs to the Etno Village Babići, a popular weekend site for those who look for fresh air, untouched nature and traditional cuisine. Opened in 1984, this ski resort was created during the Winter Olympic Games in Sarajevo to reinforce the existing capacities of mountains that surround the capital city. Located at 1160 m above the sea level, Rostovo Ski Resort offers 4 km of slopes with two ski-lifts, and it is ideal for the beginners and slightly experienced skiers and snowboarders.  Just like other ski resorts in Bosnia & Herzegovina, this one also offers the night skiing. When it comes to accommodation, you can choose between the hotel and the authentic mountain huts. 

Raduša Ski Resort

Some 20 km from a small town Gornji Vakuf-Uskoplje, one can find Raduša Ski Resort. With its highest peak Idovac, situated at the altitude of 1956 m, this mountain is the newest ski area in Central Bosnia. It offers 7 km of groomed slopes for all difficulty levels. However, the biggest part of trails is suitable for intermediate skiers. Five ski-lifts transport all winter lovers around the ski area that is situated between 1290 and 1757 m of altitude. Skiing, snowboarding and sledding, with a drop of 440 m, can satisfy most of sports lovers. The highlight of this destination is the restaurant on 1700 m of altitude, that serves traditional cuisine made of locally grown ingredients.  

So, if you fancy skiing in the most remote areas of undiscovered countries, and you happen to be in Sarajevo, Banja Luka or Mostar during the wintertime, you know where to do it. Skiing in Central Bosnia is the best option.