Overview: Landlocked by turbulent eastern European countries and
containing the notorious United Nations-administered hotspot of
Kosovo, the newly independent Republic of Serbia (formerly part of
Yugoslavia) has seemingly little to draw tourists. In fact, anyone
planning to travel to Serbia will find it difficult to locate an
up-to-date guide to the country or any information on what to
expect beyond the confines of the capital city, Belgrade. The city
itself, still scarred with the devastation of a long civil war, is
lauded in travel literature mainly for its vibrant nightlife,
although, being one of Europe's most ancient capitals, it has
plenty of interest to offer sight-seers. Those who are looking for a 'off-the-beaten track' explorative
holiday will find Serbia extremely welcoming. The country boasts
beautiful national parks, spa resorts and some of the best skiing
in Europe during the winter months. Contained in the landscape of
this verdant country are alpine meadows, impenetrable forests,
glittering limestone caves, remote monasteries, mountain lakes, hot
springs and fields of wild herbs. Definitely not to be missed in Serbia is the magnificent Djerdap
National Park, stretching along the right bank of the Danube River
between Golubackigrad and the Sip Dam. The Djerdap Gorge is one of
Europe's most spectacular geographic features. During the winter months those in the know head for the
mountains along the Ibar Highway, to the snow-blanketed peaks
around the village of Kopaonik which is fast developing a
reputation as being one of Europe's best, cheapest and cosiest ski
resorts, ideal for beginners and intermediates, also featuring the
Josanicka Banja spa. Serbia may have been a 'no-go' area because of civil and ethnic
warring for several generations, and parts of it remain unsafe for
travellers, but there is plenty that is now open to be
re-discovered in this Slavic enclave.
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