Midžor peak serves as a natural border marker between Serbia and Bulgaria.
The park is home to the last remaining populations of the Balkan lynx in the region.
The area features the Arbinje valley, known as one of the best-preserved coniferous forests in the Balkans.
Local traditional architecture, specifically the stone-and-timber houses of Gostuša village, is unique to the region.
The park contains the Bigar waterfall, which is formed by the accumulation of calcareous tufa deposits.
Stara Planina is a protected nature reserve in eastern Serbia, housing Midžor, the country's highest peak at 2,169 meters. The park preserves a landscape of glacial lakes, deep river gorges, and dense beech and spruce forests. It is home to the rare Balkan lynx and the endemic Stara Planina primrose. Numerous waterfalls, including the high-altitude Bigar and Pilj, characterize the park's hydrological profile. The region remains largely undeveloped compared to major European mountain ranges, maintaining extensive traditional alpine pastures. The park includes several strictly protected nature reserves such as Babin Zub and Draganište.
The Babin Zub rock formation at sunset for views of the surrounding Balkan mountain range.
Bring a high-quality topographical map or GPS device as cellular service is intermittent in the interior.
Carry sufficient water as mountain streams may not be available on all ridge-line trails.
Ensure your vehicle is equipped for steep, winding mountain roads, especially during shoulder seasons.
Attempting to climb the highest peaks without checking local weather forecasts, as fog descends rapidly and unpredictably.
High-altitude roads may be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall from late autumn through mid-spring.
Stick strictly to marked trails to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem and avoid disturbing local wildlife.
