If you ever go to the Southwestern Serbia and decide to visit some of its mountain jewels, the road will take you to Zlatar, a place with the authentic nature. During cold January days, this is the place where you will be welcomed to the warm, winter wonderland. Hilly meadows covered in snow, the shy rays of sun which are breaking through the naked tree branches and the sharp mountain air that instantly clears your mind.
They say that there is no better place than this for resting, recreation and enjoying the traditional food. Beneficial, fresh air and a silence which can only be ruined by the sound of a bird, are the ideal conditions for relaxing and getting away from the city rush. And that is the thing which makes Zlatar so specific. This mountain beauty still manages to avoid the trend of modernity and urbanity, so the untouched nature is the only thing you will enjoy here.
Zlatar Mountain is settled between the rivers Lim, Uvac, Mileševka and Bistrica and belongs to the unit of Starovlaško-raška Mountains. Its highest peak is Golo brdo (1.627 m), and in its foothill lays the town of Nova Varoš.
Besides the vivid landscapes of village houses and imposing nature that surrounds them, Zlatar has become known for its extraordinary climate and air features. Namely, only a few places in Serbia can be proud of this status – Banja Ivanjica, Zlatibor, Divčibare, Sokobanja, Banja Vrdnik and Rudnik Mountain. All of them are declared as the air spas of Serbia and they all have in common the amazing richness of nature.
Because of the healing properties of thick forests, mountain and Mediterranean climate fusion, as well as the rarefied air, here was founded the “Institute for prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of cardiovascular diseases”. For that reason, staying at this place is very beneficial for persons with disrupted blood pressure, anemia, cardiovascular diseases and worse general condition.
Imposing natural and cultural treasures that surround Zlatar, offer the opportunity for everyone to finding something for themselves. The vicinity of miraculous canyon and special reserve Uvac, is an ideal chance for adventurists to have a walk around the wild nature and viewpoints that take your breath away. Medieval monasteries await the lovers of history, while the lovers of village can finally indulge themselves in the magic of authentic ethno villages.
It is almost impossible to decide when the right time is to visit this mountain beauty. Zlatar wakes up in spring, and then the fragrant meadows start getting their green color, wild flowers becomes colorful and the air starts getting the scent of the most beautiful natural essences. Then you enjoy long walks, excursions, sport activities and swimming in the Zlarar Lake.
On the other hand, winter is the time when its fairy tale images are revealed and they are evoked in the photos of talented Zoran Šaponjić.
The snowy cover and the mist from which the hilly meadows of Zlatar are breaking through, are a real nature’s work of art. Ski trails “Briježđa”, “Panorama” and children’s trail next to the Centar Hotel are available for tourists and they enable them enjoying this winter sport.
… Visiting Uvac, a beautiful canyon to whom the twisted meanders give the special charm. Thanks to the unique plant and animal world, this place was declared as the Special nature reserve and an important habitat of Griffon vulture.
… Touring around numerous cultural-historical landmarks. In the vicinity of Zlatar, there are Mileševa, Davidovica Monasteries in Brodarevo, Banja Monastery in Priboj, as well as the log churches in the villages of Kućani and Radijevići.
… Enjoying the beauties of Zlatar, Uvac and Radoinja Lakes, where numerous raftings and boat rides are organized during summer.
Featured photo: Zoran Šaponjić