Lake Perućac: the emerald Drina below Tara — a guide

Published: 10/07/2026

Lake Perućac is a reservoir on the Drina below Mount Tara, at Perućac near Bajina Bašta. It is known for its emerald-green water, steep canyon walls and calm setting on the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What to see and do

The main experience is a boat ride through the Drina canyon, below the Banjska Stena viewpoint. Here too is the famous house on the Drina, on a rock in the middle of the river — one of Serbia's most photographed sights — and the Vrelo spring (the "one-day river"), one of the shortest rivers in the world. Fishing and shoreline calm are popular.

When to go

May to October for the boat ride, walks and nature. Summer is liveliest; spring and autumn are quieter.

Getting there

From Belgrade about 170 km to Perućac/Bajina Bašta, 2.5–3 hours via Valjevo or Užice. A car is most practical.

Where to stay

Bases are Perućac and Bajina Bašta, with apartments, holiday cottages and log cabins by the river and on Tara. See the accommodation and enquire directly with the host.

A practical tip

Book the boat ride ahead in season. Combine Perućac with the Banjska Stena viewpoint on Tara — the view from above and the ride from below are two faces of the same canyon.