Sarajevo: Trebevi Mountain Summit Hiking Tour

Imagine a day spent just outside the city but feeling worlds away—climbing up Trebevi Mountain on a guided hike from Sarajevo, with a cable car ride that offers sweeping city views, and ending on the mountain’s summit. This 6-hour tour offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, history, and local stories. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore forest trails, see the iconic Olympic bobsleigh track, and take in scenery that’s both breathtaking and meaningful.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the cable car ride isn’t just transportation—it’s a chance to see Sarajevo from above, with bird’s-eye views of the city and surrounding mountains. Second, the walk along the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track is surprisingly artistic, with graffiti transforming what was once a high-speed sports venue into a colorful canvas.

A couple of considerations: this tour involves hiking on uneven terrain, so suitable footwear is a must. Also, since the tour ends back at the city, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of physical activity and sightseeing. If you’re interested in nature, history, and authentic mountain scenery close to Sarajevo, this is a wonderful choice.

If you’re looking for an active, insightful way to spend a day in Bosnia and Herzegovina that combines natural beauty with local stories, this tour will likely suit you well.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Short but rewarding: Less than 20 minutes by cable car to reach the mountain, making it accessible for most travelers.
Panoramic views: Expect stunning vistas of Sarajevo from the summit, often called “the lungs of Sarajevo.”
Historical insights: Guides will share stories about war trenches, frontlines, and the Olympic bobsleigh track.
Nature and history combined: Walk through lush forests, see natural springs, and explore abandoned Olympic structures.
Sustainable travel focus: Promotes eco-friendly hiking and low carbon footprint activities.
Authentic local experience: Ends with a walk through a traditional neighborhood, learning how locals live today.

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A Detailed Look at the Trebevi Mountain Hiking Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your adventure begins in Sarajevo’s historic old town, a hub of bustling cafes, cobblestone streets, and lively markets. Meeting your guide—perhaps a local with a wealth of stories—you immediately sense the intimacy and personal touch that makes this tour special. The guide’s friendly demeanor and knowledge about Sarajevo’s history and landscape set a relaxed tone for the day.

The Cable Car Ride: A Bird’s-Eye View

The first exciting step is boarding the cable car that whisks you up the mountain in about 15 minutes. During the ascent, you’ll notice how the city gradually gives way to forested slopes and mountain peaks. This ride alone is worth the price of the tour; it’s a scenic prelude to the hiking ahead.

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Hike Through Forests and Natural Springs

Once at Trebevi, the real walking begins. The route takes you through well-maintained forest paths, where you’ll encounter clear springs of Tri Budalasa. These natural springs add a refreshing element to the hike, and our guide shared stories about their importance to locals over the centuries. The trail is generally gentle but involves natural terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

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The Ridge and Summit: The “Lungs of Sarajevo”

Following a short rest, you’ll continue along the mountain’s ridge—an impressive stretch with panoramic views of Sarajevo and the surrounding mountains. The climb toward the summit reaches 1,629 meters above sea level, but the journey is as much about the scenery and stories as the destination. Once at the top, you’ll understand why locals call it “the lungs of Sarajevo”—a vital green space offering fresh air and stunning vistas.

The Olympic Bobsleigh Track: Art Meets History

One of the most intriguing sights is the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track. Built for the 1984 Winter Olympics, it now serves as a canvas for graffiti artists, turning a sports relic into a colorful street art gallery. Guides are eager to share the story of how these tracks symbolized Sarajevo’s Olympic spirit, and how war left them abandoned—yet still visually striking.

Visiting Jure Franko’s Mountain Home and the Scenic Stops

On the return journey, you’ll stop at the SPD “Jure Franko”, honoring the legendary alpine skier. Whether you want to snap photos or simply take in the scenery, this break offers a perfect moment of reflection. The viewpoint along the way offers sweeping vistas, perfect for photos and soaking in the mountain’s beauty.

Descending Via the Old Austro-Hungarian Trail

The return route follows an old Austro-Hungarian trail, offering a different perspective on the terrain. The guide will point out war trenches and frontlines from the Bosnian conflict, adding a layer of historical context that makes the landscape even more meaningful. It’s a potent reminder of Sarajevo’s resilience and history.

End of the Tour: A Walk Through Local Neighborhoods

Back in the city, the tour concludes with a walk through a local Mahale neighborhood, where you’ll learn about day-to-day life in Sarajevo today. Our guide shared personal stories, adding authenticity to the experience.

The Value of This Tour

In terms of cost, this tour offers a lot—transportation, a licensed guide, and some scenic and cultural highlights—all in one package. While the cable car ticket isn’t included, the overall experience combines active outdoor fun with cultural insights, making it well worth the investment for those who appreciate a balance of adventure and storytelling.

What Travelers Say

Nicolas summarized it well: “Great day with our guide, a beautiful hike with breathtaking landscapes as a reward! Very pleasant morning stage to reach the peaks after the cable car and the descent to Sarajevo on foot. I recommend.” His words highlight how the combination of easy accessibility, stunning views, and engaging guides** makes this trip memorable.

Suitability and Recommendations

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy walking, nature, and history. It’s ideal for those who want a manageable hike that offers spectacular scenery without requiring advanced mountaineering skills. Families with older children or anyone keen on experiencing Sarajevo’s outdoor side will find this a rewarding option.

The Sum Up

The Sarajevo Trebevi Mountain Summit Hiking Tour offers a balanced, authentic experience that combines scenic beauty, local history, and outdoor activity. It’s an excellent way to see Sarajevo from above and explore its natural surroundings without straying too far from the city center. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and meaningful stories make it more than just a hike—it’s a glimpse into the soul of Sarajevo.

If you want to enjoy Sarajevo’s mountains with a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about local history and landscape, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those who value authentic experiences, want a manageable outdoor adventure, and appreciate a tour that combines physical activity with cultural storytelling.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, provided they are comfortable walking on uneven terrain. The hike is moderate and not overly strenuous.

How long does the cable car ride take?
It takes about 15 minutes to reach the top from Sarajevo’s city center.

Are transportation and guide included?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, along with a licensed guide and a bottle of water.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. Dress appropriately for weather conditions—layers are advisable, especially if it might be chilly at the summit.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves hiking on forest paths and uneven terrain, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Is lunch included?
No, but the guide can suggest local spots or you can bring a snack for the break.

How physically demanding is the hike?
It’s a moderate hike, about 2 hours along the ridge and shorter sections to the summit, suitable for most with moderate fitness.

What is the significance of the Olympic bobsleigh track?
It’s a relic from the 1984 Winter Olympics, now graffiti-covered but historically meaningful as a symbol of Sarajevo’s Olympic legacy.

What else will I learn during the tour?
Your guide will share stories about war trenches, frontlines, and the resilience of Sarajevo and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

When should I book?
Check availability as the tour runs on specific times, and consider booking in advance to secure your spot.

Enjoy your adventure on Trebevi Mountain—a perfect blend of nature, history, and local flavor that will stay with you long after the hike ends.