When the leaves start to turn from green to yellow, when the smell of roasted peppers, chestnuts and fruit start to fill the air and when the fires beneath the brandy boilers start to smoke, it is a clear sign that autumn has arrived to Serbia … Here are five suggestions on how to spend this season in Serbia!
Topola Fair, grape picking and majestic wine
October in Topola town, the very heart of Šumadija, has been the symbol of the glory of grapes, wine growers and winemakers for more than forty years. At that time the streets of this small town are occupied by crowds of people and many ethno-stands are placed along the streets and filled with grapes, wine, fruits, souvenirs, and various products of old crafts. From one year to another, music and folk dances, exhibitions and competitions, majestic wine and traditional cuisine are providing great entertainment on the same streets where Karadjordje himself used to walk.
If none of the above is a good enough reason for you to come and visit this town between ninth and eleventh of October, the story of a fertile hill above Topola surely will be. Oplenac is a place that keeps tradition, history and culture of the Serbian people to this day. But not only that. This rocky hill is rich in fascinating thick forests, fertile land and extraordinary fresh air. After all, visit Oplenac and see for yourself!
Roasted Chestnuts, Main Street and Golden Leaves
Many say that the most beautiful autumn is in Belgrade. We are undecided whether this is because the white city then turns to golden nuances, or because of the irresistible smell of roasted chestnuts that spreads through the streets. However, what we are sure of is that Belgrade does have a special charm at this time of year. To walk the streets of the capital listening to the golden leaves rustling under your feet, to watch children rushing to school and to listen to violin street performers entertaining people who walk by leisurely is the most unique experience.
Even though always in the center of events, Knez Mihailova Street (main street – Prince Michael Street) is especially occupied by strollers during these autumn days. There are many Belgrade women looking for the latest autumn collections of coats and boots, tourists with cameras who are trying to “catch” the best frame, street musicians, entertainers and vendors. All this makes the atmosphere at this time of year very special. However, the pleasure of sitting on one of the benches on Kalemegdan while enjoying the magnificent view of the capital bathed in golden hues is the perfect way to experience autumn in Belgrade.
Pumpkins, Pumpkin Pie and Kikinda Town
Month of October brings an interesting event to an even more interesting town in Banat. It is all based upon the saying that locals use to describe the flatness of their town: “One only needs to climb on the pumpkin to see whole Kekenda”. Therefore, the festival in honor of pumpkin was established in 1986 and ever since then the entertainment there is crazy and unforgettable. The festival name is “Days of Pumpkin” during which the competition for the biggest and heaviest pumpkin is held. Interesting, isn’t it?
In addition to this three-day long festival, which lasts from 8 to 11 October, there are many different ways to have fun in Kikinda in autumn days. First, you have to try the inevitable autumn treat – homemade pumpkin pie. Of course, there are other numerous traditional culinary specialties, and abundance of interesting locations to visit. You certainly won’t get bored if you start from museums and unusual galleries, but don’t miss the beautiful nature that surrounds Kikinda.
Mount Rtanj, Climbing up the Šiljak Peak and Mysterious Energy
Rtanj is a mountain known for its perfect geometric shape as well as many legends and myths that accompany it. The mountain itself offers a variety of possibilities for a perfect October day. On this “mysterious beauty of pyramidal shape“, you can enjoy long walks through fascinating nature, explore the hidden corners of its slopes, or embark on an exciting adventure of climbing to its highest peak – Šiljak.
Mount Rtanj has a sharp climate during the winter period; therefore, October is the last month when an organized tour can climb to its highest peak. So, do not hesitate and hurry up! The main reason why it is always a challenge to visit this interesting mountain is the mysterious energy that radiates from it. In fact, many visitors felt a strange tingling and bursts of excitement when they were here. Come and solve the puzzle!
The Valley of the Kings, Žiča Monastery and Fascinating Frescoes
Autumn is ideal time to visit some of the many significant monuments of Serbian history, culture and art. The medieval monastery with the distinctive red façade and walls adorned with valuable medieval frescoes is one of them. It is a sanctuary built by the first Serbian king. Destruction, wars, and many centuries that passed by have not prevented this piece of architectural art to remain the guardian of Serbian culture and history – monastery Žiča.
The monastery is located in a fertile plain at the foot of the mountain Stolovi, and it is the ideal starting point for touring the surrounding area. The monastery is in the vicinity of Mataruška spa and the City of Kings, in which seven Serbian medieval kings were crowned. Beautiful and untainted nature surrounds the monastery, and it all makes the region interesting to explorers and those who search for rest or recreation in gloomy autumn days.
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