Are you pondering whether Serbia is Europe's most underrated cycling destination, questioning if there's any room for cycling? Here's the answer.

Europe offers some of the world's finest and most varied cycling experiences. The Danube Cycle Path provides scenic, flat routes along the river, while the challenging French climbs of Alpe d'Huez and Mont Ventoux attract seasoned cyclist enthusiasts. The Via Francigena offers breathtaking landscapes and historical treasures.

However, Serbia is often overlooked when it comes to European cycling destinations.But not any more!

Exploring Serbia on EuroVelo 6 Along the Danube

The EuroVelo 6, along the Danube River's side, stands as Serbia's most established long-distance cycling route. It was a delightful journey, offering a rich variety of ever-changing landscapes. One day, I pedalled through picturesque farmlands; the next, I navigated dramatic gorges, and then, I cycled alongside idyllic stretches of the Danube.

Covering the stretch from the Croatian border to the Bulgarian border, the EuroVelo 6 led me through charming villages, vibrant cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad, and the breathtaking landscapes of Djerdap Park and The Iron Gates.

While the road surface might not always match the smooth perfection found in countries like Austria, it proves more than satisfactory for the most part. Occasionally, I encountered challenging gravel or dirt paths that slowed my progress, but most of the route followed tranquil roads with well-maintained asphalt.

You will be shocked at how Eurovelco is signposted; it is very difficult to get lost from the main Path. In Western Europe, many places are not signposted, and the risk of losing the route is much higher than Eurovelvo 6 because the routes are simple, logical and straight.

Backa Palanka

You can enter Serbia from the Croatian town to the Serbian town known as Backa Palanka. It is a pleasant and quiet place in Serbia, with many cafes and eateries. You can also enjoy local food items from the cafe and re-boost yourself for the next journey. You can also take a rest in a rest house.

Novi Sad

The next day, you can move toward Novi Sad, a beautiful city of attractive ancient towns and a beautiful fortress. It is the second largest city in Serbia. You can explore the 17th and 18th centuries fortress, which features an iconic clock tower and an intricate system of tunnels. On the opposite bank lies the historic district, Stari Grad, home to the Gothic Revival Name of Mary Church and the neo-Renaissance City Hall.

Belgrade

On the coming day, hit the pedal, and you can move to Belgrade, Serbia's capital and largest city. I recommend you stay here for 2 days because it offers many things you will like to enjoy.

The Beogradska Tvrđava stands as the city's most prominent landmark, a formidable fortress positioned at the junction of the Danube and Sava rivers. This fortress bears witness to the city's strategic significance throughout the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Serbian, and Austrian empires. Today, it houses numerous museums and encompasses Kalemegdan, an expansive park.

After Belgrade, there is a dirt path where your cycling speed can be slow; the path is very difficult to pass, but this place's views are worth seeing. You will enjoy cycling. Many goats, sheep, chickens, and cows are on the road, making interesting obstacles.

Moreover, The patch between Banatska Palanka and Kovin is very beautiful because the river with dotted tree trunks gives a beautiful view.

Golubac

The next destination of your Serbian Cycling trip is Golubac. It is a beautiful town in Serbia where the Danube river gets really wide and gives impressive scenery. There are many restaurants and cafes on the river where you can have a coffee with a beautiful view of nature.Djerdap National Park is a picturesque park near the Golubac, which also comes on the way to the next destination. Then, you have to climb 650m up the mountain and pull down gently from the other side of the mountain along the Danube River while feeling the soothing breeze.

Tekija

Before reaching the Tekija, you will spot the statue of Decebalus, a king who was killed during the Roman Empire, on the other side of the Romanian River. The rock carving is very beautiful and worth seeing.

Negotin

The last destination of the Eurovelo 6 is Negotin, which is a geographical region in Serbia known for its picturesque landscapes, vineyards, and historical significance.

Best Time To Visit Serbia For The Cycling Trip:

March to May and September to October is the best time to visit Serbia for the cycling trip due to the pleasant weather. In June, July and August, Serbia is very hot due to the extensive heat.

Things To Consider Before Cycling in Serbia

These are the things that you should take care of before cycling in Serbia.

• Weather Conditions: Be aware of the weather forecast, as Serbia experiences various weather conditions throughout the year. Ensure you are prepared for changes in temperature, rain, or even snow, depending on the season.
• Road Infrastructure: Familiarize yourself with the road conditions and infrastructure. Some areas may have well-maintained cycling paths, while others may lack suitable facilities for cyclists. Plan your route accordingly.
• Traffic and Road Safety: Understand the local traffic rules and be cautious of traffic patterns. Some areas may have heavy traffic, so it's essential to prioritise safety and follow road regulations.
• Cultural Awareness: Respect local customs and traditions. In rural areas, people may have different attitudes towards cyclists, so be courteous and considerate while passing through communities.
• Navigation and Maps: Ensure you have reliable maps or navigation tools to help you navigate through unfamiliar terrain. This will help you avoid getting lost and find essential services like food, water, and accommodation.

ConclusionIn conclusion, Is Serbia Europe's most underrated cycling destination? Yes, Serbia emerges as a hidden gem for cycling enthusiasts, with the EuroVelo 6 unveiling a captivating journey along the Danube. From the historic fortress of Beogradska Tvrđava to the charming towns of Novi Sad and Golubac, cyclists traverse a landscape rich in history, picturesque views, and welcoming locals. Moreover, While the cycling paths may present occasional challenges, the rewards are plentiful, including encounters with diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural scenery. This place offers an ideal climate to explore the cultural and geographical wonders of Serbia. So, for those seeking a unique and underrated cycling experience in Europe, Serbia awaits with its hidden treasures and inviting paths.