What to See in Homolje

Monasteries, gorges, caves and mountains – Banja Ždrelo is the ideal base for exploring one of Serbia's most beautiful regions.

📍 3 km from the spa · Walk or drive

Gornjak Monastery

A Serbian Orthodox monastery set deep in Gornjak Gorge on the banks of the Mlava river. Founded in 1379 during the reign of Prince Lazar, with construction completed in 1380. The spiritual founder was the elder Grigorije Sinaita the Younger. The church is partially carved into the rock face, giving it a dramatic appearance.

The monastery is still active today and monks welcome visitors. The path through the gorge to the monastery is itself unforgettable – a narrow trail alongside the river through a canyon.

  • Founded 1379, completed 1380, time of Prince Lazar
  • Church partially carved into the gorge rock face
  • Active monastery – modest dress required
  • Walking trail from the spa through the gorge ≈ 45 min
Book accommodation nearby
📍 Right next to the spa · Walking distance

Gornjak Gorge

A river gorge carved by the Mlava through limestone over millennia. Terme Ždrelo sits at the very entrance to the gorge – meaning you can start a walk directly from the spa. Steep cliffs, lush vegetation and the emerald river make this one of the most beautiful spots in Homolje.

  • Gorge begins right next to the thermal complex
  • Walking trail along the Mlava to Gornjak Monastery
  • Excellent for rock climbing and photography
  • Best in spring and autumn when vegetation is lush
Find accommodation by the gorge
📍 Immediate surroundings · Hiking

Homolje Mountains

The Homolje mountains surround the Mlava valley and offer excellent opportunities for hiking and enjoying unspoilt nature. The two most prominent peaks are Veliki Vukan (811 m) and Mali Vukan (752 m). From here you can see the whole of Homolje.

  • Veliki Vukan – 811 m, the most prominent peak
  • Mali Vukan – 752 m, easier ascent
  • Rich flora and fauna, rare plant species
  • Marked hiking trails, suitable for beginners
Book a hiking base

What to visit in the wider area

Banja Ždrelo is the ideal base – in a day or two you can visit some of the most beautiful places in this part of Serbia.

📍 ~50 km · 45 min drive

Resava Cave

One of Serbia's most beautiful caves, rich in stalactites and stalagmites. Organised guided tours inside the cave throughout the year.

📍 ~45 km · 40 min drive

Manasija Monastery

The fortified monastery of Despot Stefan Lazarević, built 1407–1418, one of the jewels of Serbian culture. Mighty towers and a beautiful church within the fortifications.

📍 ~40 km · 35 min drive

Resava Canyon

A dramatic canyon carved by the Resava river through the mountains. Hiking trails, river swimming and excellent photography spots.

📍 ~20 km · 20 min drive

Petrovac na Mlavi

The nearest town with all necessary services, market, restaurants and a historic centre. Centre of the Braničevo administrative district.

📍 ~70 km · 1 h drive

Viminacium

Serbia's largest Roman archaeological site near Kostolac – a legionary fortress and city with mosaics, baths, and the famous mammoth skeleton "Vika".

📍 ~30 km · 25 min drive

Reškovica Monastery

A monastery on a hill above the Mlava, peace and quiet, views over the river valley. Less well-known than Gornjak but well worth a visit.

Things to do in and around Ždrelo

🚿

Thermal pools

Relaxing in thermal water – the centrepiece of any stay in Ždrelo.

🏃

Hiking

Trails on Veliki and Mali Vukan, various difficulty levels.

🌄

Gorge walking

Walk from the spa to Gornjak Monastery through Gornjak Gorge.

🎡

Fishing

The Mlava river is well known for excellent fishing – trout and grayling.

📷

Nature photography

Gorges, monasteries and mountains offer spectacular motifs.

🦮

Wellness treatments

Massages, medicinal mud and saunas at the Terme Ždrelo wellness centre.

🍽

Local cuisine

Lamb, kajmak, home-made cheeses – specialities of the Homolje region.

Monastery tours

Gornjak, Reškovica, Manasija – rich monastic heritage.

Plan your visit to Homolje

Find accommodation in Ždrelo and start exploring.

🏠 View accommodation 🚗 Getting there →