Sljeme Summit and TV Tower

Sljeme is the highest peak of Medvednica, the wooded mountain that rises immediately north of Zagreb, and at about 1,033 metres it is the city's natural viewpoint and its everyday escape. Medvednica is a protected nature park, and Sljeme is its best-known destination, reached by roads, hiking trails and public transport from the capital. The summit is crowned by a tall television and communications tower, which is the highest structure in Croatia and is visible from the capital and surrounding hills.

The tower, about 169 metres tall, was completed in the 1970s and carries broadcasting equipment for the region. It was damaged during the war in the early 1990s and later repaired, and today it is a landmark that Zagreb residents recognise from afar, often glimpsed at the top of the mountain at the end of city streets. The area around the tower and the summit has seen modernisation over the years, with new facilities, and proposals for further visitor projects come up from time to time, so check current arrangements on site rather than relying on a remembered picture of what is open.

For most visitors, Sljeme is about the views and the fresh air. On a clear day, the panorama stretches over Zagreb and the Sava plain to the south, the hills of Zagorje to the north and west, and, when visibility is very good, to farther mountains. The summit is also the hub of an extensive network of trails that wander through beech forest, with routes leading to the Puntijarka mountain hut, the medieval Medvedgrad Castle, and the Veternica Cave, all of which are listed in this guide as other attractions on the mountain. Hiking from the city, using trails that start in the northern neighbourhoods, takes several hours, while those who prefer a shorter day can drive or take public transport most of the way up.

Winter transforms Sljeme into the capital's ski area. The ski resort has several runs and hosts the Snow Queen Trophy, the women's alpine skiing World Cup slalom, which has made the mountain internationally known to skiing fans. When there is no snow, cyclists and mountain bikers take over the trails, and families come to picnic and walk.

Dress for cooler temperatures than in the city, since the summit is often several degrees colder and can be windy, and bring water and snacks. Allow half a day, more if you plan to hike. It suits walkers, skiers and anyone who wants to see Zagreb from above.