Tucked away in the valley of the Rzav River, just a few kilometers from the town of Arilje in western Serbia, lies Visoka Spa – a small, lesser-known thermal spa beloved by locals and slowly being discovered by travelers seeking peace, natural healing, and authentic experiences far from commercial resorts.

🛁 A Natural Thermal Spring by the Rzav River

The heart of Visoka Spa or Visočka Banja is its natural thermal spring, which emerges right beside the crystal-clear Rzav River at a temperature of around 27°C (80°F). The water is exceptionally clean, mineral-rich, and known for its therapeutic effects, traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments.

People visit this natural spa for relief from:

  • Rheumatic and skin conditions
  • Sciatica and back pain
  • Eye fatigue and vision problems

Landscapes of the River Little Rzav (Mali Rzav), photo: Zcvetkovic, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A small stone basin has been built where the spring surfaces, allowing visitors to soak in the warm, healing water before cooling off with a dip in the river – a natural contrast therapy that refreshes both body and soul.

🌿 Untouched Nature and a Sense of Stillness

What makes Visoka Spa truly special is its setting: untouched, peaceful nature, surrounded by pine trees and rolling hills, with only the sounds of the river and birds. This is a place with no crowds, no concrete, no noise – just pure tranquility and the healing power of simplicity.

Visitors come to reconnect with nature, read, reflect, and enjoy slow moments, away from the rush of modern life.

Visoka Village, Arilje, photo: ZoranCvetkovic (http://www.srbijaplus.net/), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Just a short walk from the spring, wooden cabins and rustic lodges offer a unique opportunity to extend your stay. These charming accommodations blend into the landscape and offer comfort without disturbing the natural surroundings.

Perfect for:

  • Couples and families looking for a quiet escape
  • Nature lovers, cyclists, and hikers
  • Anyone in need of rest, detox, and calm

Some travelers bring tents and enjoy camping under the stars by the river – a favorite summer ritual in this part of Serbia.

What to See and Do Around Visočka Banja

  • Swimming and picnics on the Rzav – The Rzav is one of Serbia’s cleanest rivers, with popular wild beaches like Urjak and Bosa Noga nearby.
  • Visit the Church of St. Achillius in Arilje – A medieval treasure from the 13th century with remarkable frescoes.
  • Walk to the village of Visoka – A quiet hillside village offering panoramic views and rural charm.
  • Relax and recharge – Whether soaking in the spring, camping, or simply reading a book by the river, everything here invites slowness and serenity.

Taste of Arilje: Raspberries, Cheese, and Honey

Arilje is known as the raspberry capital of Serbia, so don’t miss tasting fresh berries and homemade products like jams, juices, and rakija during summer. Local farmers also offer authentic cheese, kajmak (clotted cream), and wildflower honey – all perfect souvenirs or additions to your riverside picnic.

Arilje panorama, photo: ZoranCvetkovic (http://www.srbijaplus.net/), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

📍 How to Get There

Visoka Spa is located just 30 km from Arilje, accessible by a small local road. The best way to get there is by car, bike, or even on foot through nature. There’s no large tourist infrastructure – and that’s precisely its charm.

Why Visit?

If you’re looking for a destination where the water heals, the nature calms, and time slows down – Visoka Spa is your hidden sanctuary. This is not a spa you’ll find in glossy travel guides, but rather a quiet treasure waiting to be discovered by those who value authenticity, simplicity, and the beauty of unspoiled places.

Featured image: ZoranCvetkovic (http://www.srbijaplus.net/), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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