The spirit of the Winter Olympics | Hike along the bobsleigh track

Travelers looking for a mix of history, outdoor adventure, and breathtaking scenery will find this tour a compelling option. It offers a chance to explore the remnants of Sarajevo’s 1984 Winter Olympics and the city’s resilience through a manageable, scenic hike just outside the city.

What makes this experience special? First, it combines a walk along the historic bobsleigh track, which is now a graffiti-adorned ruin—perfect for photography and curiosity. Second, it offers stunning panoramic views of Sarajevo from several vantage points. Third, the inclusion of local Bosnian snacks adds a taste of authentic cuisine to the journey.

A possible consideration is the moderate hiking distance—around 8 kilometers—which might be tiring for very casual or less active travelers. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a deeper connection to Sarajevo’s cultural and Olympic past, especially if you appreciate striking landscapes and history.

Good To Know

• Historical significance of Sarajevo’s 1984 Winter Olympics site
• Enjoy scenic views from mountain viewpoints and city outskirts
• Hike along the old bobsleigh track covered in graffiti art
• Experience local Bosnian cuisine at a traditional restaurant
• Small group ensures a more personalized experience
• Accessible via gondola from the city center, making it convenient

You can check if your dates are available here:

An engaging introduction to Sarajevo’s Olympic and mountainous past

This tour provides a fascinating look into Sarajevo’s Olympic history while blending it with the natural beauty of Trebevi Mountain. It’s perfect for travelers wanting more than just city sightseeing, offering a hands-on experience that’s both active and culturally enriching.

We loved the way the tour begins at Sarajevo’s City Hall, where you’ll hear stories about the city’s resilience amid wartime and its Olympic glory. From there, a quick cable car ride carries you from the urban landscape to the mountain’s edge, immediately immersing you in fresh mountain air and panoramic views. The mix of history, nature, and local flavor makes this a memorable outing.

One potential drawback is that the hike involves some uphill sections and gravel paths, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. It’s not overly strenuous but may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Still, the majority of travelers will find the pace manageable and rewarding, especially with a small group that keeps the experience intimate.

This experience appeals most to those interested in history, outdoor adventures, and authentic local encounters. If you’re seeking a balanced blend of cultural storytelling, scenic vistas, and light trekking, this tour is a strong choice.

Exploring the itinerary in detail

Starting point at Sarajevo City Hall

The meet-up at Sarajevo City Hall is a great introduction. Here, your guide will set the scene, sharing insights into Sarajevo’s history, its siege, and its Olympic heritage. This gives context to the sites you’ll see later, making the experience more meaningful. Expect stories about the resilience of Sarajevo residents and how the city has transformed since 1984.

Cable car ride to Trebevi

A highlight for many is the cable car journey that whisks you up in just a few minutes. It’s a smooth ride with sweeping views of the city below, giving you an immediate sense of the landscape and the proximity of mountain and urban worlds. The ride itself is brief but offers plenty of photo opportunities.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Trek along the old bobsleigh track

Upon reaching Trebevi, your guide will lead you to the abandoned bobsleigh track, built for the 1984 Winter Olympics. Today, the concrete track is a canvas of street art and graffiti, with some sections still retaining their original structure. Walking downhill along this track, you’ll get a close-up look at the scale of the Olympic infrastructure, now partly reclaimed by nature and creativity.

It’s easy to imagine the excitement of the Olympic spectators, lining the sides of the track, cheering for athletes. Now, it’s a hauntingly beautiful relic, perfect for photos and reflection on how sporting venues can transform over time.

Scenic viewpoint and the ruins

At the end of the track, you’ll find a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Sarajevo. It’s a perfect spot to take in the city’s terracotta rooftops, mountains, and distant hills. The view emphasizes the contrast between the mountain’s ruggedness and Sarajevo’s urban resilience.

Village walk and traditional Bosnian restaurant

The trail then winds downhill into local neighborhoods, where you can enjoy strolling through village lanes and seeing a side of Sarajevo rarely visited by travelers. The final stop is a typical Bosnian restaurant, where a delicious Bosnian mezze is included. It’s a relaxed setting, where you can sit back, sip a cold drink, and soak up the atmosphere.

The panoramic vista from this restaurant, combined with the local flavors, makes it an ideal spot to reflect on the experience and recharge before heading back.

Return options

After lunch, you have the choice to walk back to Sarajevo or arrange a taxi for convenience. The walk is about 15 minutes and takes you through local streets, offering a glimpse into everyday life outside the tourist hotspots.

What’s included and practical details

This tour, led by a knowledgeable guide, costs a reasonable fee considering the access to cable car tickets, a scenic hike, and local snacks. It’s capped at just 8 participants, ensuring a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes suitable for gravel and uneven paths, and bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it is accessible for most able-bodied travelers with moderate mobility.

The tour lasts around 4 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand.

A balanced view on the experience

The stunning views along the route are some of the tour’s biggest draws, giving you clear sights over Sarajevo and the surrounding mountains. The combination of outdoor activity and history makes for an engaging outing, especially if you’re interested in Olympic sports and Sarajevo’s recovery from past hardships.

The graffiti-covered ruins of the bobsleigh track provide a stark reminder of how places evolve over time, transforming from sporting venues to open-air galleries. This juxtaposition of history and modern art is both powerful and photogenic, appealing to travelers who love capturing unique images.

The inclusion of a Bosnian snack adds value, offering an authentic taste of local cuisine in a scenic setting. The small group format fosters conversations and allows your guide to tailor the experience, making sure you get all the insights about Sarajevo’s Olympic past and mountain landscapes.

In terms of value, considering the cable car ride, guided hike, and included food, the experience offers a well-rounded taste of Sarajevo that’s both affordable and memorable. It’s especially good for visitors who want an active, culturally rich outing without spending a whole day.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This adventure suits history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and food lovers alike. It’s ideal if you’re after a mix of nature, history, and local culture, with manageable physical activity. Those with limited mobility might find the gravel paths challenging, but most will enjoy the moderate hike and stunning vistas.

Travelers interested in Olympic history will appreciate the remnants of the 1984 Winter Games, while scenic seekers will love the sweeping views from Trebevi. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples wanting a more intimate experience away from crowded tourist spots.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves a walk of about 8 km and some uneven terrain, it can be suitable for older children comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, preferably sports shoes, are recommended for the gravel paths and downhill sections. Dress according to the weather, and bring a reusable water bottle.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Availability varies, so it’s best to reserve in advance. Check with the provider for last-minute bookings, especially during peak seasons.

How do I get back to Sarajevo after the tour?
The guide will either arrange your transportation or show you the 15-minute walk back to the starting point at the City Hall.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven paths and terrain.

Is the food included vegetarian or vegan?
The tour includes a Bosnian snack, but specific dietary options aren’t detailed. It’s advisable to check in advance if you have special dietary needs.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, Bosnian, and Serbo-Croatian, offering flexibility for different travelers.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no strict age restrictions, but the moderate physical activity may be challenging for very young children or elderly travelers with mobility issues.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car ride from the city to Trebevi lasts just a few minutes, offering quick access and great views.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced look into Sarajevo’s Olympic past, combined with stunning mountain views and a taste of local life. It’s a fantastic choice for those who enjoy active days, history, and scenery without overcommitting on time or complexity. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of authentic food make it a memorable and worthwhile experience.

If you love photographs of abandoned sports venues amid mountain panoramas or want to learn about Sarajevo’s resilience, this hike is sure to deliver. It’s also a great way to see parts of the city and countryside that few other visitors explore.

This experience provides incredible value for its mix of adventure, culture, and scenery, suited for travelers who want a meaningful, active day outside Sarajevo’s bustling streets.

You can check if your dates are available here: