In Rasina District, elevations range from 250 to 2,017 metres. Its mountain regions include Kopaonik, Jastrebac, Goč, Željin and the Gledić Mountains. This wide range of elevations shapes a landscape setting for a variety of discoveries: from the protected silver birches of Jastrebac to historic sites and the Župa wine-growing region.
Jastrebac: Plateau, Lake and Trails
Jastrebac has an expansive plateau with an artificial lake. It lies at an elevation of about 650 metres, 20 kilometres from Kruševac. The mountain is also known for its extensive silver birch forests; the silver birches found there are legally protected. Walking, hiking, cycling, skyrunning and orienteering are among the activities enjoyed on Jastrebac.
One specific example of the connection between mountain and valley is the “Jastrebački trougao” mountain biking trail. It connects the Jastrebac mountain lodge, Ribarska Banja at the foot of the mountain, and the village of Svarča in the valley of the Toplica River. Hunting and fishing opportunities are also designated at several locations in the district: Jastrebac, Lake Ćelije, the West Morava and South Morava rivers, and the Rasina River. The Morava Corridor is relevant for access to major roads: it connects Ćićevac, Stalać, Kruševac and Trstenik with important highways, including Corridors 10 and 11.
Medieval Traces and Museum Highlights
The Lazarica Church is dedicated to Saint Stephen. It was built in 1376 to mark the birth of Prince Lazar’s son Stefan. Prince Lazar probably had his capital, Lazarev grad, built as early as 1371. Among the remains of the larger fortified town are a palace, a court church and a stable. Together, these sites offer insight into different aspects of medieval architecture and urban history.
The monasteries also tell the story of the architecture and endowments of this period. Serbian architect Rade Neimar built Ljubostinja as an endowment of Princess Milica. The monastery hosts “Jefimijini Dani,” a cultural event dedicated to Jefimija, the first Serbian poet. At Naupare Monastery, two rose windows on the western façade are considered important examples of the old Morava School. The church of Veluće Monastery was built in the 14th century, around 1370. It belongs to the Morava School and is protected in Serbia as a cultural monument of great importance. The monastery also preserves old liturgical books and vestments.
The National Museum of Kruševac is located in the archaeological park. Its collection comprises around 23,000 museum objects from various fields, spanning more than six millennia of history. Expert-led tours are available for visitors to the museum’s exhibition areas. Tours of the exhibition are offered in Serbian and English. As operational details may change, it is advisable to check tour availability before your visit.
Wine Country, Festivals and Regional Cuisine
In Aleksandrovac, the Museum of Viticulture and Oenology is housed in a wine cellar at the agricultural school, built in 1924. The museum documents the development of viticulture and winemaking over the centuries. The “poljane” are part of Župa’s distinctive settlement landscape: a group of wine-growing settlements preserved in this form only there.
“Župska Berba” is a harvest festival that has been held for half a century. Visitors can sample wine from the “wine fountain,” as well as wines and other grape products along the “wine street.” Dates and programmes may vary. Župa wines also feature at the “Koznik – City of Knights” event, which includes a feast with a variety of dishes and wines from Župa. The medieval setting includes a prince’s hall, craft workshops, stables, arbors, banners and shields, as well as performers and volunteers in medieval costumes. The event’s staging may change from one edition to the next.
The medieval Koznik Fortress is considered one of Serbia’s best-preserved fortifications and stands at an elevation of more than 900 metres. The history of the spa at Ribarska Banja dates back to the 19th century: it was among the first six Serbian spas to be restored in 1833 during the reign of Prince Miloš. Wellness options include massages and treatments using medicinal herbs, algae, wine and chocolate, as well as salt rooms, saunas, hot tubs, a fitness area, an indoor and outdoor pool, a Green Bar and a Turkish hammam. Some facilities may change; check current details if these offerings are important to your plans.
The “Samar” sports and recreation centre in Ribarska Banja includes tennis and beach volleyball courts, a small water park and a children’s playground. Some of these facilities may also change. An ethno restaurant in the village of Srndalje is recommended for traditional folk dishes and regional specialities. A 1,800-metre paved mountain path leads there. As the restaurant’s operating status should be checked before travelling, it is best to confirm in advance.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Aleksandrovac, Brzeće, Brus, Kruševac, Ribarska Banja, Trstenik, Jablanica and Moravica District.
Go to the regional travel overview: Central Serbia.
