When planning a trip to Goč, distinguish the village and the mountain as separate geographical reference points: the challenging Grebenska “Ljukten” ridge route starts in the village of Goč; circular trails and ski runs are on Mount Goč. First consider whether the village starting point for this ridge route or a trip on the mountain is the deciding factor for your stay.
Hiking: Duration, Elevation Gain and Difficulty
The partly developed Grebenska “Ljukten” ridge route runs from the village of Goč at 1,030 metres to Mitrovo Polje at 680 metres. It is rated as challenging. The route was last checked in April 2015; conditions may have changed since then. Check the trail conditions before setting out and plan this hike in line with its challenging rating.
The circular trails on Mount Goč differ considerably in length and time required. The circular hiking trail from the Goč centre to Lake Selište is 6.28 kilometres long, has an elevation gain of 147 metres and takes recreational hikers around one and a half to two hours. The “Selište Lake Small” loop by the lake covers 2.35 kilometres and 70 metres of elevation gain; it is expected to take about 45 minutes to an hour. It is suitable for family hikes, relaxation and photographing the lake.
The trail to the summit of Krst is shorter than “Selište Lake Small” at 1.35 kilometres, but has a greater elevation gain of 102.3 metres. Both trails are listed as taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The Krst trail is suitable for athletes, people seeking relaxation and whole families. The comparison helps with choosing: the stated time range is similar, but the length and elevation gain are not. Seasonal conditions may affect the routes.
Mountain Scenery, Forest and Lake Selište
Mount Goč extends over ten kilometres; its highest peak reaches 1,127 metres. It is classified as a low mountain. Beech and fir forests dominate its slopes. The artificial Lake Selište is located at Gvozdac and is one of the main landmarks of Mount Goč.
The Goč-Gvozdac forest complex is a Category II nature reserve. The protected area covers almost the entire catchment area of the Gvozdačka, known as the Brezanska reka in its lower reaches. The main watercourse catchment covers 43.75 square kilometres and has more than 110 recorded springs.
At Lake Selište, activities that could endanger the cleanliness of the water are strictly prohibited. Follow the local notices; if you are unsure whether a planned activity is permitted, check locally before taking part.
Winter and Getting There
There are two ski runs on Mount Goč and a small ski lift that can be used to teach non-skiers and children. The illuminated run allows skiing at night. Operating conditions may vary by season; check in advance whether the facility is available on your travel dates.
An asphalt road ends above Lake Selište at the Gočka reka, at an altitude of 1,080 metres. Road conditions can change. The old access road to Mount Goč via Stanišinci is less steep and has no hairpin bends; in winter, conditions may affect the drive. Check the road conditions before setting off.
History and Places to Eat
The “Roman graveyard”, the burial site of Saxon miners, is located on Mount Goč. They mined iron ore and smelted it during the reign of the Nemanjić dynasty. Alongside hiking and scenery, the site offers a glimpse into the mountain’s mining history.
There are restaurants with fish ponds on Mount Goč; the famous Goč trout is also associated with the mountain. The availability of individual restaurants may vary. If you are planning to eat out, check the current offerings of your chosen establishment in advance.
Discover more destinations: Rast, Tutin, Vrnjačka Banja, Jošanička Banja, Kraljevo, Rudno, Vrba, Kopaonik.
Back to the regional travel overview: Raška District.
