Forest Park Zvezdara – Perfect Spot for a Family Outing

Forest Park Zvezdara is a green oasis in Belgrade’s eponymous municipality and an attractive picnic spot that Belgraders use for rest, sports and recreation. It occupies a forested part of the hill that used to be called Great Vrachar, with a peak that reaches 254 meters above sea level. The entire ecosystem covers about 145 hectares, of which 21 hectares are arranged as a city park. The main landmarks are the Mirijevo neighborhood, the Youth Stadium and the local sports center.

Most of the vegetation consists of mixed tree species, including acacia, black and Canadian poplar, American ash, mountain maple, white ash, loquat oak, black and white pine. The main function of the forest is to improve the environment and optimize ecological standards in the urban surroundings. Reforestation of Zvezdara began in 1933 after the construction of the Astronomical Observatory. The project was also undertaken to protect Belgrade from harsh winds. Trees were mostly panted in the late 1940s, with the massive participation of students and young mountaineers.

Archaeologists believe that there are traces of prehistoric times beneath Zvezdara, however, the site has not been sufficiently explored. The oldest written traces of Vrachar are found in Turkish documents from the early 17th century, where the area is referenced as “a hill and a large field”. The hill and the surrounding area towards Vuk’s Monument, which is known today as Zvezdara, was called East Vrachar til the early 1930s. For a while, King Petar I Karadjordjevic entertained the idea of building himself a new palace in the place of the observatory. Given the threat from Austrian gunboats patrolling the Danube, military strategists dissuaded him from the intention.

The observatory, built in 1932, used to be called ‘zvezdarnica’, which soon became the official name of the neighborhood. Built in a modernist style, the facility was of great importance for the development of astronomy, physics and meteorology. At the edge of the forest, the construction of the Science and Technology Park began in 1989; the project was suspended and completed as late as 2012. A recent civic addition was a small viewpoint near the observatory, offering a spectacular view of the Danube, Karaburma and the surrounding neighborhoods. There are shopping and catering facilities nearby, so visitors can stock up on groceries, take a break at Sumski Bar or have a meal at Vrh Beograda restaurant.

The fact that it is the largest city forest after Topcider and Kosutnjak speaks enough about the importance of Zvezdara Forest. The entire area is criss-crossed with landscaped walkways and unpaved trails that are fully passable and flattering to the natural ambience. The park itself has a variety of facilities for children and adults. There are small playgrounds with swings, seesaws and other props that encourage all-day outdoor activities.

For generations of Belgraders, the forest park has been a favorite picnic spot. There is so much interest that one feels a shortage of wooden benches and tables. In the last few years, the city managers have addressed the issue so that the visitors may have a full experience. The main picnic areas are located in the central and lower part of the forest. Besides the usual benches, there are also football and basketball courts. Jogging, cycling and rollerblading tracks are also available.

Given that all access roads are paved and well lit, the forest is suitable for hiking in all weather conditions. Bird lovers have the opportunity to observe about 50 species that inhabit the area. Trees with birdhouses are located around the fountain, in the lower part of the park. As a green oasis in proximity to the downtown, Forest Park Zvezdara is a perfect place for relaxation and respite in the fresh air. Moreover, with all the restaurants, cafes and bars sprouting up on the edges of the forest, a daily outing may be complemented with evening entertainment.