Bosnia Ski Resorts

Skiing in Bosnia is gaining popularity for its modern facilities, cheap ski passes, and reliable snowfall between December and March. Bosnian resorts attract local skiers and international tourists and are well equipped with a good range of accommodation, ski shops, bars, and restaurants. The ski resorts of Jahorina and Bjelasnica are two of the most popular, both of which are within 30 minutes of Sarajevo city centre.

Skiers of all levels flock to Jahorina for its variable terrain. The 20 kilometres of tree-lined slopes are set between 1200 and 1900 metres and offer panoramic views towards Sarajevo. The resort has an excellent infrastructure featuring friendly restaurants, ski rental shops, and ski schools with English instructors. A day's pass in Jahorina costs €13. Other winter activities in Jahorina include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tour skiing.

Bjelasnica is a hit with advanced skiers for its challenging terrain, including its red and black Olympic slopes (dating back to the 1984 Olympics) and its steep vertical from 2000 metres to 1200 metres. The area has a total of 20 kilometres of well-groomed runs which are accessed via three lifts. Bjelasnica does not have as many slopes as Jahorina, but the ones it does have are longer.

Beginners in Bjelasnica will also find gentle blue slopes to practise on. The resort centre has a modern infrastructure with a number of hotels and apartments. The après ski scene in Bjelasnica is slightly limited with just a couple of restaurants. Also, if hiring ski/boarding equipment don't expect the very latest models. A day's ski pass in Bjelasnica costs €13.

Other ski resorts in Bosnia are Vlasic and Kupres. The Vlasic Mountain near the ancient town of Travnik is the best established ski centre in central Bosnia. Vlasvic's popular resort of Babanovac is set at 1260 metres and features a good choice of accommodation. Kupres in western Bosnia offers 13 kilometres of runs stretched across 1200-1500 metres and is popular with families and beginners for its gentle slopes and modern infrastructure.

The main resorts of Jahorina and Bjelasnica are easily accessed, just 30 minutes from Sarajevo by hire car, taxi, or bus.