Highlights: Bovan lake, Latin fortress, Vrmdža lake & village, Rtanj & Ozren mountain Sokobanja with turkish bath, Ripaljka waterfall, Soko fortress, Moravica river spring

 

With mystical legends, breathtaking nature, and a unique pyramid-like shape, Rtanj Mountain will captivate you at first sight. If you want to explore the secrets of this Eastern Serbian gem but have limited time, this one-day tour is the perfect choice

 

On this tour we are to discover:

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Bovan lake - Gateway to the East

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On our way to the mystical Rtanj, take a moment to enjoy the serenity of artificial Bovan Lake—an emerald oasis surrounded by the green hills and lush meadows, perfect for a short break and breathtaking views!

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 Latin fortress​ 

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Nestled in the scenic hills near Sokobanja, the ruins of Latin Town stand as a silent guardian of history and legends. This medieval fortress, perched above the charming village of Vrmdža, dates back to the Roman and Byzantine eras, later serving as a stronghold during the medieval period.

Shrouded in mystery, the fortress is believed to have been a refuge for merchants and warriors, with its very name hinting at past ties to Latin-speaking traders. Today, the remains of its stone walls offer breathtaking panoramic views of Rtanj Mountain and the surrounding countryside, making it a must-visit spot for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Take a walk through the echoes of the past, explore the legends, and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Eastern Serbia! 

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Vrmdža village

 

The first mention of the settlement of Vrmdža dates back to the 3rd century, making it a village rich in history. At the heart of the village stands the imposing Latin Town, a Roman fortress built to protect the imperial road that once connected the empire to the Middle and Near East. In the 6th century, the town was expanded to defend the Byzantine Empire from the invasions of Slavic tribes. Later, in the 14th century, it became an established stronghold for wealthy nobles, who traded with merchants from Dubrovnik.

Vrmdža is also noted in Ottoman tax records. Today, remnants of the old fortifications remain, shrouded in mystery. Locals have discovered large Roman bricks with inscriptions, parts of spears, arrows, copper coins, and even human bones. From the ruins of Latin Town, you can enjoy panoramic views of the fertile fields, lush orchards, the winding river lined with willows and poplars, neighboring villages, traditional red-roofed houses of Vrmdža, and the majestic Rtanj Mountain in the distance.

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Vrmdža natural lake

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Vrmdžansko Lake is of karst origin and has an oval shape. It was formed in a sinkhole, and in 1892, a depression with a diameter of 80 meters was filled with water after a heavy downpour blocked the underground water flow. Due to the unblocking of new sinks about fifty years ago, the lake, with a depth of 10 meters, temporarily disappeared. Today, the water in the lake is replenished by a small spring, underground sources, rain, and snowmelt.

The lake's name is quite unusual, but not unfamiliar to those from the area. To this day, locals use expressions like "the rain falls from the clouds" or, during the hot summer, "it’s time to turn water into the garden." The word "navrnuti" (to turn) gave rise to the name Vrmdža, which signifies a place with many springs, streams, brooks, small rivers, and even larger rivers, as the word "vrm" refers to water.

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Rtanj - mysterious mountain 

 

There are few mountains in Serbia that ignite the imagination and inspire incredible stories like Rtanj. And the myths surrounding this mountain are nothing short of fascinating!

Rtanj Mountain is the perfect destination for those who love a challenge. This mystical peak is renowned for its numerous underground springs, caves, pits, medicinal herbs, and natural phenomena like fireballs, which continue to intrigue and baffle visitors. The mountain draws many adventurers seeking the thrill of discovery. One of the greatest challenges is the hike to Šiljak Peak (1565 meters), where, on a clear day, the view stretches as far as the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers (Belgrade).

Traversing the entire ridge of Rtanj is even more captivating than the ascent to Šiljak Peak itself. The view toward the summit is often more stunning than the one from the top. It is precisely the perspective from Preslo that reveals the mountain's famous pyramid-like shape – Rtanj's distinctive and iconic feature.

Rtanj is also famous for its endemic plants, unique to the mountain, and legally protected. Among them, Rtanj tea stands out as the most well-known and cherished.

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Sokobanja Spa town

 

In addition to its picturesque landscapes, the longest tourist tradition in Serbia, and the hospitality of its residents, Sokobanja is most famous for its thermal springs, clean air, gourmet specialties, and the sounds of the accordion. What sets Sokobanja apart from other tourist destinations is its lavish and unique nature—numerous mountains, dense forests, rivers, lakes, caves, air rich in oxygen and negative ions. For all these reasons, it rightfully holds the title of the "Green Heart of Serbia."

Sokobanja offers ideal conditions for an active vacation and engaging in various activities that improve both physical and mental well-being. Depending on the preferences and interests of visitors, activities can range from adrenaline sports to leisurely walks through unspoiled nature, relaxing at one of the many well-maintained picnic areas, swimming in the thermal spas, water park, the Moravica River, or Bovan Lake, participating in sports and recreational events, and much more. There’s something for everyone, making Sokobanja a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.

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Waterfall Ripaljka

 

Near the Grudno picnic area on Ozren Mountain, you’ll find the Ripaljka Waterfall, Serbia's first natural monument, legally protected since 1949. The waterfall is formed on the Gradašnica River and is one of the tallest in Serbia.

The waterfall consists of 11 sections, with a total height of about 40 meters. The tallest section is 11 meters high, followed by a 5-meter section, with the remaining sections ranging from 0.5 to 2 meters in height. Its name comes from the local term "ripati," meaning "to jump." In the Sokobanja region, people don’t say the water is falling—they say it "ripas" (jumps).

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Soko fortress​

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The medieval Sokograd is located just 2 km from Sokobanja. The exact time of its establishment is unclear, but some studies suggest it was built during the reign of Emperor Justinian as a fortress to defend against Avar and Slavic invasions of the Balkan Peninsula. The name Sokograd, also known as Sokolac, is believed to be linked to the occupation of its rulers. According to legend, they were involved in falconry, and even taxes were paid in trained falcons, known as "sokolarina." Today, you can still see falcons soaring above the medieval ruins of the town.

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Itinerary

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Departure from Belgrade 8h (hotel pick up), transfer to Vrmdža village around 3h with photo stop at Bovan lake lookout. Set off to Rtanj mountain or to Latin fortress and Vrmdža lake till 16h. After it transfer to Sokobanja for a lunch and sightseeing till 18h. Transfer back to Belgrade, arrival in the evening at around 21h.

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*Optional hiking 3h to the ridge of Rtanj mountain or visiting Sokobanja with a fortress and turkish bath (each activitiy duration 3h)

 

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