Goč: Ridge Trails, Mountain Forest and Lake Selište

Goč appeals to travelers who appreciate mountain landscapes not just as a backdrop, but as a setting for a range of active days. The name comes up in two contexts: a ridge hiking route starts in the village of Goč, while destinations such as Lake Selište, the summit of Krst and the ski slopes are associated with Mount Goč. When choosing an apartment, it is therefore worth considering the specific starting points for your planned activities.

Hiking between the ridge and the lake

The challenging, partially developed “Grebenska ‘Ljukten’” ridge route begins in the village of Goč at an elevation of 1,030 meters and ends in Mitrovo Polje at 680 meters. Route conditions were last checked in April 2015 and may have changed. Check the current conditions before setting out.

On Mount Goč, the circular trail from the Goč Center to Lake Selište is 6.28 kilometers long and has an elevation gain of 147 meters. It takes recreational hikers about one and a half to two hours. The “Selište Lake Small” loop by the lake is shorter: it is 2.35 kilometers long, has an elevation gain of 70 meters and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. It is suitable for family hikes, relaxation and photos of the lake. A 1.35-kilometer hiking trail with an elevation gain of 102.3 meters leads to the summit of Krst; the stated duration here is also about 45 minutes to an hour. It is suitable for athletes, people seeking relaxation and whole families. The two shorter routes therefore have similar stated durations but lead to different destinations and differ in length and elevation gain.

Mountain forest, bodies of water and views

Mount Goč stretches for ten kilometers; its highest summit reaches 1,127 meters. The mountain is classified as a low mountain, and beech and fir forests dominate its slopes. Goč and Ravna planina can be seen from the summit. Here, distinct landscape features come together in a compact area with a specific view, while the elevation figures help put the various routes in perspective.

The Goč-Gvozdac forest complex is a Category II nature reserve and encompasses almost the entire catchment area of the Gvozdačka River. In its lower reaches, the river is called Brezanska reka. The catchment area of Goč’s main watercourse covers 43.75 square kilometers and has more than 110 recorded springs. The artificial Lake Selište lies at Gvozdac and is one of the main symbols of Mount Goč.

According to the rule to be confirmed locally, all activities that could endanger the cleanliness of the water are strictly prohibited at Lake Selište. Follow this rule and check locally if you are unsure about a planned activity.

Winter and culinary impressions

Mount Goč has a floodlit ski slope for night skiing. The ski area has two slopes and a small ski lift that can be used to teach non-skiers and children. Operating conditions at seasonal facilities can vary; check the current conditions before planning a winter trip.

The local cuisine is also part of the mountain experience: there are restaurants with fish ponds, and the famous Goč trout is another culinary highlight. Guests can enjoy the food and atmosphere at the restaurants.

Starting points and choosing a location

A paved road ends above Lake Selište at the Gočka reka, at an elevation of 1,080 meters. The older access road to Mount Goč via Stanišinci is less steep and has no hairpin bends. Road conditions can change, and winter conditions may affect the drive. When choosing an apartment, it is therefore helpful to first compare your preferred destinations and their respective starting points.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Bogutovac, Plešin, Vrnjačka Banja, Gradac, Mataruška Banja, Raška, Tutin, Kraljevo.

For the broader travel overview: Raška District.