Step into the Serbian countryside and experience the centuries-old art of rakija making. Learn how to do it from locals, enjoy homemade bites and lunch, and taste authentic Serbian wines at a local winery.
After a full day of countryside experiences, discover why rakija is more than just a drink for Serbs. In Serbia, rakija is more than a drink – it’s a tradition enjoyed any time of the day. Locals sip it with morning coffee, share it as an aperitif before lunch, and raise a glass during lively evenings and nights out.
This countryside escape blends homemade rakija, award-winning wines, and warm Serbian hospitality.
Learn about the history of rakija, which has been made in the Balkans for centuries. Earliest written records of this traditional fruit brandy date back to the 14th century. Originally, it was produced in the monasteries by the monks, not only as an alcoholic drink but also for medicinal purposes. Healing and treating wounds was just one of rakija's benefits. Over time, rakija became a household essential across Serbia, with unique family recipes and distilling methods passed down through generations in every region. Today, rakija is more than just a beverage – it is a symbol of Serbian culture, hospitality, and tradition, enjoyed at celebrations, family gatherings, and everyday life.
Essentially, any fruit that can be fermented can be turned into rakija. The key is purity – no artificial sugar or additives, just fresh fruit and careful distillation. Rakija can be stored and aged in oak barrels, which gives it a yellowish color, as well as a smoother, more complex flavor and aroma.
Learn about the different types of rakija, including šljivovica (plum rakija), Serbia’s most famous rakija, rich and full-bodied; kajsija (apricot rakija), sweet, aromatic, and fruity; kruškovača (pear rakija), smooth with a subtle nutty flavor; lozovača (grape rakija), classic grape brandy, popular in many households; dunjevača (quince rakija), unique, slightly tart, and fragrant; višnjevača (cherry rakija), fruity and vibrant, often homemade and served more as liquor; and herbal rakija, infused with local herbs for flavor and tradition.
Fruška Gora is one of Serbia’s most popular wine regions, known for its centuries-old winemaking tradition. Wine production here dates back to the Roman era, when the first grape varieties were introduced to the region. During your visit, enjoy a delicious homemade lunch paired with a wine tasting experience. Depending on the season, you can also experience a tractor trailer ride through the vineyards of Fruška Gora.
