Zagajica Hills
Often compared to the landscapes from Tolkien’s novels or the emerald greenery of New Zealand, Zagajica Hills are described as a fairytale-like destination. Indeed, they are a unique place nestled in the heart of the Pannonian Plain.
Surreal in their landscape and astonishing in the fact that a sandy plain has managed to hide these hills from curious eyes, Zagajica Hills emerge as emerald-green mounds accessible only to those persistent enough to walk along the dirt roads for a few kilometers from nearby villages.
About Zagajica Hills
Ancient sand dunes now covered in vegetation and partially forested groves stand as witnesses to the history of the Pannonian Basin. Rising like islands from a sea of arable land, Zagajica Hills, located on the northeastern edge of Deliblato Sands, form a unique protected micro-region in this part of the country.
The highest hill reaches an altitude of 256 meters above sea level, offering a clear view of the mighty peaks of the Southern Carpathians in the distance, while the Vršac Hill can be faintly seen to the north.
These hills are part of the Special Nature Reserve Deliblato Sands and lie within the municipality of Bela Crkva, near the village of Grebenac.
Access to Zagajica Hills is possible from three directions: Deliblato, Izbište, or Grebenac. The journey is primarily undertaken on foot or by bicycle. Whichever path you choose, you can expect a pleasant walk with views of vast fields. Contrasting the waves of wheat, you’ll also spot the powerful turbines of a nearby wind farm. During the summer months, it’s best to start your hike to Zagajica Hills early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense heat, as there is virtually no shade or shelter along the route.
The Landscape
Zagajica Hills cover an area of 250 hectares, and one visit is hardly enough time to explore and get to know the entire area. The scenery is undoubtedly most beautiful in spring when everything turns lush green, but it’s also stunning in late autumn on warm days when shades of gold and brown dominate the landscape. If you visit early in the morning or at sunset, you’ll witness an incredible play of shadows between the hills.
How to get there?
This time, we opted for the approach starting from the village of Izbište, involving a 5 km walk (one way) to reach Zagajica Hills. The route from Belgrade takes you through Pančevo and Banatsko Novo Selo toward Vršac. In the village of Uljma, turn right following signs for Bela Crkva, and shortly afterward, in Izbište, take another right toward Šušara. A little further down this road, the drivable section ends, and a dirt road on the left leads you past the fields toward Zagajica Hills.
There aren’t any precise landmarks or marked paths along the way, but if navigation isn’t your strong suit, a GPS map will surely guide you to the right place. Alternatively, you can ask anyone working in the fields along the way for directions.
After a 5 km walk, you’ll be greeted by incredible views of rolling hills waiting to be discovered.
Distance from Belgrade: 174 km
Hiking Route Length: 10–15 km
Difficulty: Moderate walking pace
Type of Experience: Solo trip
Equipment: Comfortable walking shoes
Food: Bring your own provisions
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