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The concrete curves that made me forget I was in a city
I stood at the top of the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track, my mountain bike between my legs, looking down at the winding concrete curves that disappeared into the forest below. Behind me, the summit of Trebević mountain stretched toward the sky at 1,627 meters. Below me, the city of Sarajevo sprawled in the valley, its minarets and church towers barely visible through the haze[citation:2][citation:5].
This was the moment I had been waiting for.
The 1984 Winter Olympics brought the world to Sarajevo. Athletes from 49 countries competed on these slopes. The bobsleigh track — one of only 13 in the world at the time — hosted races that captivated millions[citation:7]. Then the war came. The track was damaged. Bobsleds stopped running. For years, the concrete structure sat abandoned, used by soldiers as a defensive position. Bullet holes still scar its walls[citation:1].
But here's the thing about Trebević: it never stopped being the "lungs of Sarajevo"[citation:7]. Locals hike here. Families picnic here. And now, mountain bikers from around the world come to do something you can't do anywhere else: ride down an Olympic bobsleigh track on two wheels[citation:3][citation:8].
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Sarajevo Mountain Biking Tour to Trebević — from what to expect to how to book, and why riding the bobsleigh track might just be the most memorable thing you do in Bosnia.
Why This Tour Is Unique
| Feature | What Makes It Special |
|---|---|
| Olympic Bobsleigh Track | One of the few bobsleigh tracks in the world where you can actually ride a bike[citation:3][citation:5] |
| War History | Cycle along former front lines and see "Sniper Alley" from above[citation:5] |
| Panoramic Views | Stunning vistas of Sarajevo from 1,627 meters[citation:2][citation:8] |
| Local Guides | Led by passionate guides, some of whom are former national champions[citation:3][citation:6] |
| Authentic Picnic | Enjoy traditional Bosnian food at the mountain top[citation:2][citation:3] |
The Story of Trebević
In the winter of 1984, bobsleigh athletes from 15 countries launched themselves down this mountain at over 100 kilometers per hour. Cameras from 49 nations broadcast the races live. The XIV Winter Olympic Games had come to Sarajevo — to Yugoslavia, to the Balkans, to a city nobody had expected to host the world.
The track was one of only 13 bobsleigh tracks on earth. Engineers had cut it into the forest by hand. The 1.5-kilometer concrete ribbon curved and banked through the trees, designed for precision at speed. Every curve had a name.
The world left. The Sarajevo Olympics became a symbol of what Yugoslavia had achieved: modern, multicultural, open.
Eight years later, Serbian forces climbed this same mountain with artillery.
The bobsleigh track was repurposed. Its banked concrete curves made ideal defensive positions. Snipers used the sight lines from Trebević to fire into the city below. The mountain that had welcomed the world now held it hostage. The siege lasted 1,425 days.
When it ended, the track was abandoned. The forest grew back around it. Local artists covered the walls in huge, colorful murals — defiant, wild, beautiful. The names of the original curves are still painted in faded letters on the concrete. The bullet holes are still there too.
In 2018, the cable car reopened. In the years that followed, mountain biking tours began using the track. What was built for speed, repurposed for war, then left to the forest — now carries cyclists down through the trees.
The mountain remembers all three histories. When you ride down it, you will too.
The Tour in Detail
Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 to 8 hours (depending on group pace)[citation:2][citation:8] |
| Distance | Approximately 25 km with 1,170 meters of elevation gain[citation:5][citation:10] |
| Difficulty | Moderate to challenging — requires a moderate fitness level[citation:2][citation:5] |
| Group size | Maximum 8 travelers (small group)[citation:2][citation:6] |
| Includes | Mountain bike, helmet, protective gear, picnic lunch, guide[citation:2][citation:3] |
| Price | From approximately €60-80 per person (varies by provider)[citation:2][citation:8] |
What's Included
- Use of a quality mountain bike — Full suspension bikes available[citation:3][citation:10]
- Helmet and protective gear — Knee pads, back protector (optional)[citation:3]
- Picnic lunch — Traditional Bosnian food, vegetarian options available[citation:2][citation:5]
- Expert local guide — Knowledgeable about history, culture, and the trails[citation:5][citation:6]
- Snacks and water — Bananas, cookies, and water during breaks[citation:5]
What to Expect
The Climb
The tour begins at the Torus Tours office on Obala Isa-bega Ishakovića in central Sarajevo[citation:2][citation:5]. From there, you'll cycle approximately 10 kilometers on asphalt roads that were once the front line during the 1992-1995 war[citation:5]. Your guide will point out key locations and share stories of the siege.
The ascent continues on gravel roads for another 4 kilometers to the summit of Trebević. The total climb is challenging — about 3 hours of steady uphill[citation:6][citation:8]. But the pace is relaxed, with frequent breaks for water, snacks, and photos.
The Summit
At 1,627 meters, Trebević Peak offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Sarajevo and the surrounding mountains[citation:2][citation:8]. This is where you'll stop for a well-deserved picnic lunch — local bread, cheese, meats, fresh vegetables, and maybe even some baklava.
The Bobsleigh Track
This is the moment you've been waiting for. The Sarajevo Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track was built for the 1984 Winter Olympics[citation:2][citation:7]. During the war, Serbian forces used parts of the track as defensive positions, and bullet holes are still visible in the concrete[citation:1].
Today, the track is covered in graffiti — a canvas for local artists. And you get to ride your bike down it[citation:3][citation:5].
The descent on the bobsleigh track is unforgettable. The concrete curves, the forest rushing past, the wind in your face. It's not a high-speed thrill ride (unless you want it to be) — it's something rarer: a connection to history, a ride through time.
"Cycling down the bobsleigh track was epic, one of the best things I've done on two wheels." — Verified traveler, September 2023[citation:5]
The Descent
After the bobsleigh track, the trails continue downhill through forest singletrack, gravel roads, and eventually narrow streets of Sarajevo. The total descent takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and skill level[citation:5][citation:8].
Difficulty Level
| Skill Level | Can you do it? |
|---|---|
| Beginner | Possible with a moderate fitness level, but the climb will be challenging[citation:8] |
| Intermediate | Ideal — you'll enjoy the technical sections and the climb[citation:3] |
| Advanced | You'll love the downhill sections and the bobsleigh track[citation:6] |
Important: This tour is not suitable for:
- Children under 14[citation:6]
- People with mobility impairments
- Those with heart conditions or poor cardiovascular health[citation:2][citation:3]
- Pregnant travelers[citation:3]
Why Trebević Matters — A Brief History
Trebević is one of four Olympic mountains surrounding Sarajevo. At 1,627 meters, it's the second shortest of the four, but its proximity to the city center — just a 20-minute cable car ride — makes it the most accessible[citation:2][citation:7].
The 1984 Winter Olympics
The Sarajevo Olympics were a triumph. The city welcomed the world. The bobsleigh track was state-of-the-art, one of only 13 in existence at the time[citation:7]. Athletes from 49 countries competed. The world saw a modern, multicultural, thriving Sarajevo.
The War (1992-1996)
The siege of Sarajevo — the longest siege of a capital city in modern history — changed everything. Trebević was occupied by Serbian forces who used the mountain to shell the city below. The bobsleigh track became a defensive position. Concrete walls were punctured with rifle holes[citation:1].
The Present
Today, Trebević is peaceful again. Families hike on weekends. The cable car reopened in 2018. And the bobsleigh track — still scarred, still graffiti-covered — has found a new purpose. It's a memorial, an art gallery, and a bike trail, all in one.
🎟️ Book Your Sarajevo Mountain Biking Tour
Option 1: Trebevic Mountain Biking Tour from Sarajevo — Bobsleigh Track (Torus Tours)
Why choose this tour:
- 100% traveler recommendation on Tripadvisor[citation:2][citation:6]
- Led by passionate guides, some former national champions
- Small groups (max 8 travelers)
- Includes picnic lunch with local Bosnian food
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5-8 hours |
| Price | From SGD 154.99 (approx €60-80)[citation:2] |
| Meeting point | Torus Tours office, Obala Isa-bega Ishakovića 3[citation:2] |
| Included | Mountain bike, helmet, picnic lunch, guide |
| Cancellation | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance[citation:2] |
What travelers say:
"The views were absolutely spectacular, the ride down on the bobsled track made the whole trip up worthwhile." — Mirza_R, Aug 2023[citation:2]
"Did this trip with my wife and it was brilliant, definitely one of the highlights of our holiday. Our guide Said was a really nice guy and pointed out key areas, landmarks etc and spoke about the history." — S5662IAandrewb, Sep 2023[citation:5]
"Kamer is a former downhill champion in Bosnia, so don't be surprised if he's flexing a little bit on the way down. I like the guy and I really enjoyed my first MTB experience." — AngeloMertee, Aug 2021[citation:5]
Book: Trebević Mountain Biking Tour on GetYourGuide →
Option 2: Downhill Sarajevo MTB Adventure — Half Day Tour
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | Half day |
| Price | Varies by group size |
| Transport | Shuttle vehicle takes you up the first 10 km[citation:3] |
| Included | Bike, helmet, knee pads, back protector, picnic lunch[citation:3] |
| Trails | Easy, medium, and hard options available (3-7 km each)[citation:3] |
Why choose this tour:
- Shuttle transport means less climbing, more descending
- Protective gear included (knee pads, back protector)
- Choose your difficulty level
What travelers say:
"Professional and personalized service for customized day of mountain biking. Torus provided full suspension bike as well as needed accessories. The opportunity to ride on the 1984 Olympic bobsled track was quite a unique experience." — Daydream50849791313[citation:3]
"We had a fantastic day with Kamer - a completely unique experience. He thought of everything: great bikes, helmets and other protective gear, even snacks and a picnic lunch of authentic Bosnian food!" — Verified traveler[citation:3]
Book: Downhill Sarajevo MTB Adventure →
Option 3: Sarajevo Urban Mountain Hike (Hiking Alternative)
If mountain biking isn't your thing, you can still experience Trebević and the bobsleigh track on foot.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Distance | 22 km |
| Elevation gain | 1,090 meters[citation:1] |
| Meeting point | Trg Prve brigade policije (across from City Hall)[citation:1] |
| Price | Varies by provider |
| Included | Licensed guide, bottled water, cable car tickets[citation:7] |
Book: Trebević Mountain Hiking Tour →
Tours & Activities
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Budget Breakdown — Tour Options
| Option | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| DIY: cable car + walk the track | ~20 KM (€10) | Budget travelers; no bike involved |
| Half-day tour (Downhill Adventure) | €40–60 | Less climbing, more descending; good for casual riders |
| Full-day tour (recommended) | €60–80 | The complete experience: climb, summit picnic, bobsleigh track |
| Group tour (2+ people) | Often cheaper per person | Ask about group discounts when booking |
What's included in the full-day tour
| Included | Approximate value |
|---|---|
| Mountain bike (full suspension) | €20–30 rental value |
| Helmet + protective gear | €10 rental value |
| Local guide (former national champion) | — |
| Picnic lunch (traditional Bosnian food) | €8–12 |
| Snacks and water throughout | €5 |
| Total included value | ~€43–57 |
Verdict: At €60–80 all-in, the full-day tour is exceptional value. The guide's historical knowledge of the siege and the mountain adds context no signboard can provide. The picnic alone is €10–15.
Getting Around
Meeting point: Most tours meet at the Torus Tours office at Obala Isa-bega Ishakovića 3 — a 5-minute walk from the old town (Baščaršija). No transport needed to reach the starting point.
Cable car alternative: If you want to experience Trebević without the full tour, the cable car station is in the Bistrik neighborhood, a 10-minute walk from Baščaršija. Tram line 1 also stops nearby.
Getting to Sarajevo: For travel between Sarajevo and other Bosnian cities — Mostar, Konjic, Jahorina — a rental car gives you far more scheduling flexibility than buses.
Search rental cars in Sarajevo on DiscoverCars →
What to Bring
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Sturdy athletic shoes | No sandals or open-toed shoes allowed[citation:1] |
| Water | At least 1-2 liters |
| Sun hat and sunscreen | The mountain sun is strong |
| Comfortable, layered clothing | Weather can change quickly |
| Small backpack | For water, snacks, and extra layers |
| Camera | The views are spectacular |
| Cash | For tips or extra snacks |
What's provided:
- Mountain bike
- Helmet
- Knee pads (on some tours)[citation:3]
- Picnic lunch[citation:2][citation:3]
- Snacks and water[citation:5]
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| Spring (April-May) | Green landscapes, wildflowers, cooler temperatures |
| Summer (June-August) | Warm, best for biking, busiest season |
| Autumn (September-October) | Perfect temperatures, beautiful colors |
| Winter (November-March) | Cold, possible snow — tours may be limited |
The sweet spot: May, June, or September.
Fitness Level Required
This tour involves a real climb — approximately 3 hours of uphill cycling[citation:6][citation:8]. If you're not used to mountain biking, the ascent will challenge you. But the guides are patient and encouraging, and the reward at the top (and the descent down the bobsleigh track) makes every pedal stroke worth it.
"Be aware that it is somewhat of a challenge to ride the bike all the way to the top. It took us 5-6 hours back and forth, so be prepared for a solid trip." — Hjalmar M, Jul 2022[citation:5]
What to Wear
- Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes — they are not allowed on the tour[citation:1]
- Wear moisture-wicking athletic clothing
- Bring a light jacket — it can be cool at the summit
Meeting Point
Most tours meet at the Torus Tours office at Obala Isa-bega Ishakovića 3 in Sarajevo[citation:2][citation:5]. The office is centrally located near the old town.
The Olympic Bobsleigh Track — Worth the Hype?
Yes. A thousand times yes.
The track is 1.5 kilometers of winding concrete, built for speeds over 100 km/h. Today, it's covered in colorful graffiti — a canvas for local artists. The bullet holes from the war are still visible. The forest has grown around it, creating a tunnel of green[citation:7].
Riding your bike down this track is surreal. You're not racing. You're not competing. You're just... experiencing. The curves, the forest, the history. It's the kind of thing you can't do anywhere else.
"The ride down on the bobsled track made the whole trip up worthwhile." — Mirza_R, verified traveler[citation:2]
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour requires a moderate to high fitness level. The climb to the summit takes approximately 3 hours with 1,170 meters of elevation gain. The descent is technical in sections but manageable for intermediate riders. Beginners are welcome but should be prepared for a physical challenge.
No — the tour includes use of a quality mountain bike, helmet, and protective gear (knee pads, back protector on some tours).
Yes — this is the highlight of the tour. You will bike down the abandoned 1984 Olympic bobsleigh track. It is one of the few bobsleigh tracks in the world where you can actually ride a bike.
The tour lasts 5 to 8 hours, depending on the pace of the group. This includes the climb, breaks, lunch, and the descent.
Yes — most tours include a picnic lunch of traditional Bosnian food. Vegetarian options are available.
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Final thought
I have ridden bikes in a lot of places. The Alps. The Rockies. The coast of Croatia. But nothing — nothing — compared to riding down the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track on Trebević.
It's not the speed. It's not the scenery. It's the history. The concrete beneath your wheels was poured for the 1984 Olympics, when Sarajevo welcomed the world. The bullet holes in the walls were made during the siege, when the world abandoned Sarajevo. The graffiti was painted by artists reclaiming the space for peace.
Three histories, one track.
The climb is hard. Your legs will burn. You will question your life choices around kilometer 8 of the ascent[citation:5]. But when you reach the top, look out over the city, eat your picnic lunch with the sun on your face, and then point your bike down that concrete ribbon — you will understand.
This is not just a bike ride. It's a journey through the soul of Sarajevo.
More from Sarajevo: Sarajevo Travel Guide | Jahorina Travel Guide | Sarajevo Food Guide
🎟️ Book Your Mountain Biking Adventure
| Tour | Duration | Difficulty | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trebevic Mountain Biking Tour (5-8h) → | 5-8 hours | Moderate-Hard | From €60 |
| Downhill Sarajevo MTB Adventure → | Half day | Moderate | Varies |
| Trebević Hiking Tour → | 6-8 hours | Moderate | Varies |
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