Mount Trebević Vidikovac and the Bobsleigh Track

Mount Trebević rises directly above Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Vidikovac viewpoint beside the upper cable car station gives an elevated panorama of the city in the valley below. The frame looks down over Sarajevo's neighbourhoods and the Miljacka valley, with the surrounding ridges behind, and a telephoto of 70-200mm picks out compact details such as minarets, apartment blocks and the old town roofs. Late afternoon is the best time for the city view, when the sun lowers behind the western end of the valley and side-light adds depth to the hillsides. Close by on the mountain lies the abandoned bobsleigh and luge track from the 1984 Winter Olympics, now covered in graffiti and winding through the forest. This subject photographs best in soft overcast light, which keeps the colours of the graffiti even and avoids harsh patches of sun and shade between trees; a wide-angle lens exaggerates the curves of the concrete. The best season runs from May to October, when the cable car and trails are accessible and the forest is in leaf; autumn adds colour, while winter conditions can be icy and visits require extra care. The viewpoint area is busiest at weekends and around the cable car station, whereas the track itself is quieter, and tripod positions are easy to find away from the station. Tripods are generally tolerated in open areas. Drone use in Bosnia and Herzegovina is regulated and visitors should check current rules. The cable car ride costs a fare, and visitors should confirm current prices and operating times at the station. A walk along the track involves uneven concrete, loose debris and broken sections, so sturdy shoes are essential, and photographers should stay off unstable edges. Water and restrooms are best arranged at the station before heading onto the trails, as facilities along the track are limited.