From Zlatibor/Užice: Mileševa Monastery & Waterfalls + lunch｜Serbia

Travel back in time to learn about medieval history, listen to stories about Saint Sava, the patron saint of the Serbian people, and admire some of the best XIII-century art in all of Europe, during a visit to the over 8 centuries-old Mileševa monastery. Visit one of the least-known and most beautiful Serbian mountains, Jadovnik, and its marvelous Sopotnica waterfalls with the old mills. Taste the freshest and tastiest home-made food you’ll try anywhere in Western Serbia.

Begin your journey to Prijepolje, a charming town in southwest Serbia, located on the route to Montenegro. If you haven’t had breakfast yet, this is the ideal opportunity to try the local delicacies for which Prijepolje is renowned. Situated in the multi-ethnic region known as Sandžak, Prijepolje offers a culinary experience that reflects the cultural mosaic of Orthodox and Muslim communities coexisting harmoniously for centuries.

After a delightful stop in Prijepolje, proceed to Mileševa monastery, one of Serbia's most significant cultural and religious landmarks. Founded in the early XIII century as an endowment of Serbia’s third crowned king, Vladislav, Mileševa monastery holds immense historical and spiritual significance. For centuries, it served as the burial place of Saint Sava, the patron saint of the Serbian people, until his bones were tragically burned by the Ottomans.

Today, Mileševa remains a vital spiritual center, showcasing some of the finest XIII-century fresco paintings in Europe, adorning its walls with exquisite artistic mastery.

Next, visit Sopotnica village, nestled on the slopes of Jadovnik mountain. The waterfalls along the Sopotnica river are a hidden gem of Western Serbia, offering a serene and beautiful setting. Go on a 1.5-hour hike to explore the cascading waterfalls, some reaching heights of 19 to 25 meters, as well as admire the ancient wooden mills used for centuries to make flour.

After your hike, visit a local village household, where your hosts will warmly welcome you with rakija, a traditional Serbian drink, and treat you to delicious homemade food sourced from their own farm. It'll be a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic Serbian hospitality and cuisine.

In the late afternoon, depart back to either Zlatibor or Užice, where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation.