If you’re looking for a relaxing place to take a break from the hectic pace of downtown Belgrade, Stepin Gaj (Stepa’s Grove) is the perfect spot. This oasis on the city’s outskirts is surrounded by forests and offers stunning views of nature. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Park-forest Stepin Gaj
For many people, the park or the forest is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As Belgraders, we take pride in our parks, and we enjoy feeling the first rays of sun after a long winter in our green oases. After a day full of interesting activities, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a peaceful, natural setting. And that’s exactly what Stepin Gaj offers. Nestled just 12 km southeast of the heart of Belgrade, the 8 square kilometres of the urban oasis are a haven of calm, offering a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Stepin Gaj is just one part of a larger complex (Stepin Lug-Baba Velka-Torlak-Jajinci), and as such, it belongs to the largest wooden area of Belgrade. It used to be known as “Titov Gaj”, named after Yugoslavian president Tito. Now, it carries the name of Stepa Stepanović, a famous Serbian field marshall. His memorial house is located in the vicinity of the complex. You can also visit the memorial park “Jajinci” and Torlak hill if you are in the area.
Enjoying the nature
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquillity and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through towering trees or picnicking in a secluded meadow, the forest provides endless opportunities for recreation. A 5-km long hiking and jogging path goes across the park forest, so it is quite easy to walk or run there.
In addition to being a great place to enjoy some peace and quiet, the forest also offers ample opportunities for wildlife watching. From cute hares to playful squirrels or even a wild hog, there’s always something interesting to see. So whether you’re looking for a place to unwind or an exciting adventure, be sure to explore some of Belgrade’s forests.
You can find dozens of tree species in the complex, including cedar, cypress, pine, birch and even walnut trees. If you love birdwatching, this is a perfect spot, as pheasants are very common here. A variety of other plants, bushes, mushrooms and insects also found their home in Stepin Gaj. It is a truly harmonic piece of nature in the metropolis. In addition to all of the wildlife, the scenery here is absolutely breathtaking, with rolling hills and beautiful forests.
Please respect the land and pack out everything that you bring in with you. Help us keep this area beautiful by picking up after yourself. Please use the provided trash receptacles and help to keep this area clean. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times.
Good to know
Stepin Gaj can be reached by public transport, but it will be a long journey as the public bus takes many stops along the way. Also, there is no direct line from the centre, and you also have to walk a bit from the station to the park. So, we recommend renting a car and having the freedom to move around the city as you like. The parking is available at the entrance to the park. There are no entrance fees for the park.
This is a pristine area, and tourist facilities are not available here. However, there are benches and tables and designated picnic areas. We suggest bringing some snacks and water (especially when it’s hot and sunny). Feel free to put the blanket on a meadow. Enjoy a picnic with friends while breathing the fresh air and listening to the birds chirping.
Watch for wildlife when you are in this area. It is their home, and they have the right of way. By respecting their space, you can help ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and enjoyable experience in this beautiful area. In order to protect the animals in this area, please do not feed them.
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path place to spend an afternoon outdoors, surrounded by beautiful scenery, then head to Stepin Gaj. With ample space to relax and take in the fresh air, this is one destination you won’t want to miss. So pack a picnic lunch, put on your walking shoes, and enjoy all that the park has to offer.
