If for you, travel rhymes with nature and the great outdoors, then this natural gem hidden in a less crowded and less expensive European country definitely deserves your attention. I loved this country and can’t wait to go back and discover this very place.
Here are the details.
Overview of Đerdap National Park
Located in northeastern Serbia, near the town of Kladovo, Đerdap National Park is a veritable treasure of nature that looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy adventure film.
It lies along the right bank of the Danube, Europe’s 2nd-longest river.
On the other side of the river, in Romania, lies the Iron Gates Natural Park (Parcul Natural Porţile de Fier). Another fascinating place to discover in another beautiful and affordable country that just joined the Schengen Area.
The Đerdap National Park covers an area of 640 km². It stretches from the Golubac fortress to the Sip dam.
Being one of Serbia’s most visited attractions, there are therefore several hotels and restaurants in the surrounding area.
If you ever plan to visit this beautiful country, take the time to get out of the big cities so you don’t miss out on these spectacular landscapes! If you’re in neighboring Croatia, like so many are, why not make a quick side trip to a way more affordable country?
What’s more, in 2020, Đerdap National Park was officially designated as a Global Geopark by UNESCO, becoming the first protected area in the country to receive this title.
Attractions of Đerdap National Park
The park is best known for the impressive Đerdap Gorge, also known as “The Iron Gates”, which stretches for around 100 kilometers!
It is, without doubt, one of Europe’s largest gorges in terms of length, and it even partly forms the natural border between Serbia and Romania.
Đerdap National Park is also home to spectacular caves and canyons formed by erosion, such as the Grand Canyon of Đerdap, Veliki Strbac Canyon, and Mali Strbac Canyon.
The Veliki Strbac and Lisine waterfalls are among the most beautiful in the park. Definitely worth a visit.
The Golubac fortress offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding area.
Not far from the park, you can dive into the history of the region with unique archaeological sites such as Lepenski Vir and the Roman ruins of Diana.
This is truly a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, who can go hiking, cycling, or exploring the shores by kayak.
How to get to Đerdap National Park
The nearest airports are in Belgrade and Niš. However, these 2 cities are more than 180 kilometers from the National Park.
Most visitors get to the park by car via the E75 freeway from Belgrade to the town of Golubac, or via National Road 34 from the town of Bor. Rental cars cost as little as $34 per day in Belgrade if you pay with your credit card that has rental car damage insurance coverage for free and decline the agency’s extra charge.
Buses also run from Belgrade to Golubac for $21. Alternatively, you can take a cruise on the Danube!
Where to stay near Đerdap National Park
Serbia isn’t one of the next countries in our accommodation feature, so here’s a teaser.
Hotels
- Cheapest: Golden Inn Hotel
- $91 per night
- $46 per night per person with 1 companion
- No rating
- Well-rated: Aquastar Danube
- $114 per night
- $57 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 8.5/10
- Luxurious: Hotel Lepenski Vir
- $125 per night
- $63 per night per person with 1 companion
- No rating
Other accommodations
- Cheapest room: Vila Ondina
- $51 per night
- $26 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 9.0/10
- Well-rated private apartment: Markovic Apartments (vidikovac)
- $68 per night
- $34 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 9.3/10
- Well-rated private apartment: Chalet Ljubicine Kolibe
- $77 per night
- $39 per night per person with 1 companion
- No rating
- Well-rated private home: Vikendica Dunav I Sava
- $58 per night
- $29 per night per person with 1 companion
- $20 per night per person with 3 companions
- Rated 10/10
Other destinations in Serbia
Our accommodations guide will also list Serbia’s top destinations, but here are 4 more great places if you want to plan a trip to this lovely country.
1. Belgrade
Serbia’s capital boasts a rich and fascinating culture, flamboyant nightlife, and several historic sites that are well worth a visit.
2. Novi Sad
Serbia’s 2nd-largest city, known for its Petrovaradin fortress and EXIT music festival.
3. Niš
History buffs will be delighted by the Niš fortress and the Mediana archaeological site.
4. Vrnjačka Banja
This is one of Serbia’s most renowned spas with 7 mineral water springs. It’s the ideal destination if you want to enjoy the ultimate relaxation during your trip.
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Summary
In the heart of Serbia, Đerdap National Park is a natural wonder that impresses with landscapes straight out of a fantasy movie. Add it to your list of places to see once in your life.
What would you like to know about the Đerdap National Park in Serbia? Tell us in the comments below.
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Featured image: Iron Gates, Đerdap National Park, Serbia (photo credit: stevanaksentijevic)
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