Banjica Forest – Hiking, Training and Enjoying Nature

One of Belgrade’s most beautiful forest parks is located in the Banjica neighborhood, within the territory of Vozdovac municipality. It stretches along the Liberation Boulevard, with a total length of 2.3 kilometers. Part of the forest is criss-crossed with hiking trails which are intended for sports and recreation. The Banjica Forest is of great importance for the city’s microclimate. It serves as a reservoir of fresh air and moderates extreme weather conditions.

During the 1920s and ‘30s, the vegetation was mostly cut down and the space was used for growing vegetable crops. Soon, the plans for reforestation were launched, and in the fall of 1939 the first tree was planted behind the army barracks. In the post-war period (1948-1950), the project was carried out completely, leaving the forest full of oak, hornbeam and linden. Namely, deciduous species predominate here, but there are also conifers planted at the edges of the forest.

Given the numerous bird species that inhabit the area, the forest park was declared a natural asset and awarded state protection. This was the initiative of Timothy John Byford, a British director and screenwriter, but also an ornithologist and dedicated bird watcher. From 1986 to 1989, Byfrod studied the bird habitats and suggested a state level protection program. Once called Tito’s Grove, the area became known as Byford’s Forest.

The forest is mostly populated by species characteristic of deciduous habitats. The bird fauna was not only defined by natural factors, but also by the fact that the forest is relatively young and mapped out. Moreover, the urban environment has a favorable effect on the wintering of many bird species such as hawks, buzzards, warblers and thrushes. In the category of nesting birds, the nightingale, magpie, crow and great spotted woodpecker are the most represented.

The central part of forest offers a proper running track which is great for professional training or casual recreation. Several smaller trails and paths radiate from the main track. Wooden tables and benches are quite convenient if you wish to take a break from hiking or jogging. In terms of family visits, children are usually interested in discovering hidden sites of the forest, but they can also have fun in the playgrounds where swings and see-saws are set up for them.

Another cool feature is the Banjica Stream, which flows through the southern side of the forest. Just for a moment, while listening to the rustling of leaves and jets of water, you may forget that you are close to apartment blocks and busy roads. This terrain is mostly populated by oak and maple, but there are also lots of acacias and poplars. You might also come across hedgehogs, moles, squirrels, weasels and other types of smaller mammals.

Navigating through the entire ecosystem is easier if you know the local landmarks. On the north side, these are General Pavle Jurisic Sturm Street and Gemax sports complex; on the west side, Rasadnici military complex, FC Rad Stadium and Vozdovac/Banjica sports centers with accompanying facilities; on the eastern side, Liberation Boulevard and nearby apartment blocks; on the south side, Crnotravska Street and Banjica neighborhood.

The forest park is minimally urbanized, so there are only a few cafes and restaurants. Ozon, Blunch and Piatto Saruna are nice places where you can stop by for lunch or drink. Maintaining the natural look of the environment is exactly why state protection is so important. Much like Zvezdara Forest or Kosutnjak, Banjica Forest is a great spot for a family outing. Perhaps next weekend may be the right time to discover this inspiring urban oasis.