Hiking Adventure in Serbia's Mystical Mountains: Explore the Beauty of Rtanj This Weekend

Hikers and nature enthusiasts can look forward to a special event this Saturday, May 23rd. The "Mali Rtanjski Vrhovi" hiking action takes place in the picturesque surroundings of Rtanj, Šarbanovac, and Nikolinca. Organized by the Mountaineering Club "Oštra Čuka," the Citizen Association "Velika Porica Rtanj" from Šarbanovac, and the local community of Šarbanovac, this event brings together hikers from all over Serbia to explore the natural beauty hidden in the foothills of Rtanj.

"Hikers will have the chance to see several peaks, Mućea, Babe, the Jelovac spring, and even the Zvečane propasti, one of the deepest caves in Rtanj. They will also visit Golemu Porica, a karst cave with beautiful walkways, and the Vidikovac Stenje, a picturesque lookout point," says Mladen Antić, president of the Oštra Čuka Mountaineering Club.

The trail is located on the southeastern slopes of Mt. Rtanj and is one of the most marked trails in Serbia. It is characterized by diverse terrain, caves, karst formations, forests, and stunning vistas. The trail was created by reviving old forest paths and passes through the Special Reserve of Nature Rtanj, a protected area.

"The jorgovani and yellow peonies are in bloom, making the trail particularly attractive and beautiful. We just hope the weather cooperates," adds Antić.

From the summit of Mućea, the view stretches over the Sokobanjska valley and the peak of Šiljak. From the first peak of Babe, the view opens up to Gredi, Devica, and Ozren. The second peak of Babe leads further north, offering one of the most beautiful views of Mt. Rtanj. Vidikovac Stenje is one of the most beautiful lookout points on the trail, with a view of the Crnorečka valley, Tupižnica, and Staroplanina. Beneath Stenje lies a small cave, Lisičja jama.

"After returning from the Javor area, hikers will enjoy a free lunch at "Najdine pojate," where there will also be a distribution of souvenirs. The lunch is organized by our friends from the Citizen Association 'Velika Porica Rtanj' in Šarbanovac and the local community of Šarbanovac," explains Mladen Antić.

The starting point of the trail is in the village of Cerovi, on the regional road Sokobanja–Boljevac, 13 kilometers from Sokobanja. Hikers will gather at 9 AM, with the hike planned to start at 10 AM. The expected return time is around 5 PM. Registration is ongoing until Friday, May 22nd, and can be made by calling 060/5423115.