If we were to tell you that you could find a magnificent nature reserve, discover the secrets of a medieval town, enjoy an amazing waterfall cascade down an even more impressive mountainside, fill your lungs with the smell of wildflowers, and, on top of ALL that, taste the best homemade wild pear rakija, would you believe us?
Haven’t decided yet? We’ll make it easier for you. Should your answer be NO – make sure you read this article. It’s bound to change your mind. And should your answer be YES – well… read this article nonetheless and see if it lives up to our previous claims. Ready? Set? GO!
When Nature Takes its Course
Either by chance or with great care? We didn’t manage to find out whether nature wanted to have a little display of its artistic skills or was it a set of unusual circumstances that led to the creation of the miraculous mish mash of natural gems that make this mountain so special. The reason doesn’t even matter, would you agree? The thing that matters is the end result. And it is more than fascinating…
One thing is certain though… These similarities and opposites have made Jadovnik what it is today – a mountain, beautiful and intimidating on one side, and on the other tempting and treacherous. And this is exactly what makes it so special and so irresistible… It has the ability to completely seduce you and take you to a whole new dimension…
A Realm of Impressive Wilderness
Precisely because of it being the southmost isolated finding place of Pančićeva omorika (common name Serbian spruce) as well as the habitat of hundreds of rare plant and animal species, Jadovnik is considered an important natural monument. It is especially enchanting on account of the surreal gorge formed by the Mileševka river. It’s also surrounded by endless pastures and thick forests. Sounds tempting, right?
Trust us, it’s even more tempting when you feel the touch of this truly untouched nature, wilderness and fresh mountain air for yourself. We would need a lot more time, and pages, to describe all the diverse plant and animal species, so we will just tell you that Mileševka is called the realm of birds of prey and the perfect place to research plant life.
The Heavenly Waterfalls of the Famous Sopotnica
To visit Jadovnik and not to visit the unique village on its slopes would be a real shame. Why? Because of Sopotnica – a small village with a big heart, with preserved nature and enchanting waterfalls. The main culprit for the magnificence of these waterfalls is the river Sopotnica which plummets from 1070 to 1030 m above sea level.
Another reason why Sopotnica has to find itself on your itinerary is the homemade food. Kajmak, cheese, honey, various kinds of pies, pršuta, dried fruit, šljivovica. And best of all, nothing contains additives or pesticides. The locals are extremely proud of three special delicacies that are mountain lamb, wild pear rakija and rakija prom pears from Požega. We already got the munchies!
The Mystical Guardian of the Mileševa Monastery
This is only one of the many names of the medieval town that adorns the exit of the Mileševka canyon. Even though no one can say with certainty when this fascinating fortification was created, it will surely catch your attention. Why it was built is yet another question with no answer. Another mystery. However, there are a couple of theories, most of which state that the purpose of Milešavac was to protect one of the most important Serbian monasteries built in 1234.
The monastery in question is, of course, Mileševa. This medieval sanctity is special for several reasons. One of the major ones is the famous “White Angel” fresco located in the monastery. Mileševa is also very important because it holds the remains of Saint Sava, among many other valuable frescoes which decorate its old walls.
If you want to stop daydreaming about Jadovnik and its undeniable beauty, we suggest you pack some comfy clothes, put a smile on and head straight to southwestern Serbia!
Since you’re already here, don’t miss…
… visiting the magical mountain of Zlatar. Here, in winter you will be welcomed by a real winter wonderland, and in spring by luscious nature. On account of its remarkable climate and air properties, Zlatar is recognised as climate resort.
… having your breath taken away by the winding meanders of Uvac. Anyone who has the opportunity to visit this Special nature reserve should do so. If you choose to do so, you’ll enjoy nature’s fascinating masterpiece, fresh air and some of the best and most beautiful lookouts of Serbia.
… enjoying the colourful scenery of Kamena Gora. Here you will be greeted by unique nature, hospitable locals and the Old or Sacred Pine, a famous resident of this astounding place. We’ll just tell you that this tree is over 500 years old, and the rest – you can find out for yourself!
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