Ugljevik combines nature with a rich cultural history. Notable features include the Šuplja Stijena rock opening and the trails in Borova Šuma; the “Filip Višnjić” Cultural Centre and the “Ćiro” steam locomotive tell stories of history and cultural life. Recurring events and a range of leisure activities add to the choices. You can tailor your stay to whether you would rather focus on scenery, outdoor activities or culture.
Nature and trails around Ugljevik
Šuplja Stijena is a geomorphological rock opening, about 20 metres long and up to three metres high. It is often visited by nature lovers, hikers and mountaineers. Its dimensions give this natural feature a clearly defined character: it is a rock formation with specific measurements, not simply a general viewpoint.
Borova Šuma is located not far from the centre of Ugljevik. It has numerous marked hiking trails suitable for walkers and cyclists. The forest trails and the rock opening offer different points of interest: Borova Šuma is all about marked trails and outdoor activity, while Šuplja Stijena stands out for its distinctive geomorphological formation. As trail conditions depend on local maintenance, it is a good idea to check their current state before setting out.
There are also wayfinding signs along the Kose trail above Ugljevik: signposts and tourist information boards were installed there in 2026. As this infrastructure may change, it is advisable to check for current information before setting out.
Cultural history and events
The “Filip Višnjić” Cultural Centre is a replica of the old building of the “Ugljevik” mine in Stari Ugljevik. It houses an ethnographic local history collection of 220 traditional objects; the number may change. The cultural centre’s programme includes concerts, theatre performances, literary evenings and ceremonial academies. If you are planning your visit around a particular event, check its date in advance.
The famous “Ćiro” steam locomotive stands in front of the Cultural Centre in Ugljevik and is a popular photo opportunity. Historically, it ran on the Mezgraja–Ugljevik–Bijeljina route, carrying both passengers and coal. It thus connects two aspects of regional history: the railway as a means of passenger transport and its use for hauling coal.
Jablan grad, a medieval fortress, is also part of the tourist attractions around Ugljevik. Only scant traces remain today of the former town and its life. The Monastery of Saint Alexander Nevsky is the only place of worship in Bosnia and Herzegovina built by Russians, and was under the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate. Both offer a historical perspective, but with different emphases: the remains of a medieval town in one case, and the monastery’s distinctive religious history in the other.
The Plum, Fruit Brandy and Honey Fair is also part of the events calendar. Traditionally held each year in late August or early September, its exact dates should be checked for the relevant year. Visitors can enjoy the exhibitors’ local products as well as an extensive cultural and arts programme. In 2026, the “Ugljevik 2026” art colony was also opened for its twelfth edition.
More leisure activities
Fishing takes place at Lake Mezgraja in the municipality of Ugljevik. The “Rudar” Sports and Recreation Centre operates swimming pools and a sports hall; as the availability of facilities may change, check the current status if you would like to include them in your plans.
Discover more destinations: Zidine, Slatina, Ljubina, Šipovo, Ograde, Brdo, Rudo Polje, Bijeljina.
For the regional travel overview: Republika Srpska.
