Perućica forest named Europe’s most mysterious destination

Perućica, a primeval forest located within Sutjeska National Park in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has been named Europe’s most mysterious and secluded forest by Travel + Leisure magazine. In an analysis of 33 European forest destinations, the magazine ranked Perućica first, evaluating factors such as tree age, natural phenomena, and low social media presence and Google search volume.

Spanning approximately 1,400 hectares near the border with Montenegro, the area is a strict nature reserve and is on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list. The forest contains some of the continent’s oldest trees, over 170 species of trees and shrubs, and more than 1,000 species of herbaceous plants. It serves as a habitat for wildlife including brown bears, grey wolves, chamois, and golden eagles. A notable feature of the forest is the Skakavac waterfall, which drops from a height of 75 meters.

Due to its untouched wilderness, access to the reserve is strictly controlled. Visitors are only permitted to enter when accompanied by licensed local guides and nature wardens.