Kopaonik: a guide to skiing, summer and where to stay on Serbia's biggest mountain

Published: 19/07/2026

Kopaonik is the largest and highest mountain of central Serbia and by far the biggest ski resort in the country. Pančić's Peak reaches 2,017 metres, and most of the massif is protected as a national park. With its many sunny days it is nicknamed the "Sunny Mountain".

Skiing

The resort has over 55 kilometres of groomed pistes of all difficulties, linked by cable cars and ski lifts, plus cross-country trails. Beginners do well around Malo Jezero and Krčmar, while stronger skiers head for the Karaman ridge and Gobelja. Ski passes are sold by the day or for several days, and are cheaper online and outside holidays. The season runs roughly from late December to March depending on snow, with artificial snow-making as backup.

Summer on Kopaonik

Outside winter, Kopaonik is for hiking, cycling and exploring the national park. Marked trails lead to peaks, the Jelovarnik waterfall and viewpoints. The air is fresh and the mountain much cooler than the lowlands, so it is popular as an escape from summer heat.

Getting there

From Belgrade it is about 280 km (motorway to Kruševac/Brus, then a mountain road), around 3.5–4 hours. From the south you approach via Raška. A car is most practical; in winter, winter equipment (chains, winter tyres) is required.

Where to stay

There is plenty of choice: from large hotels in the centre (ski-in/ski-out) to apartments on Kopaonik, studios and private accommodation. In season you book well ahead and prices peak; off-season and in summer they are much lower. See the full accommodation offer and hotels, and send your enquiry directly to the host.

A practical tip

For skiing, book accommodation and ski passes early — Kopaonik is Serbia's most in-demand winter destination. If you don't ski, come off-peak: quiet, lower prices and the same trails to walk.