Maljen is a mountain stretching for 25 km – located between the towns of Valjevo and Požega, and the rivers Manastirica and Ribnica.
Mesmerizing natural beauty, the smell of white pine forests and numerous cultural monuments make this destination a truly unique corner of Serbia, so it’s an understatement to say that you should visit it at least once.
If you are a supporter of an active vacation and want to get away from the busy life and the city’s concrete, in the following lines you will find out why Maljen mountain is your ideal choice for a relaxing vacation.
So, read the text to the end!
Maljen – a mountain with incredibly beautiful natural treasures
The Maljen mountain is located in Western Serbia and represents the beginning of the Valjevo mountains, which are the furthermost massifs of the Dinaric system.
It is characterized by sumptuous flora and fauna; northern parts of the mountain are formed of limestone, while the southern parts are predominantly rich in meadows, pastures and forests.
Due to the mechanical discontinuity of the rock mass, the northern side is characterized by sharp edges, while the southern parts descend into the gorges of the Bukovska and Crna reka.
A special place in the flora is occupied by spruce, whose density in Maljen is considered the largest in Serbia.
When it comes to water bodies, there are several lakes in Maljen, among which Divčibare Lake stands out. This lake is located at an altitude of 980 m and is a real oasis of peace, surrounded by dense forests.
There are also 4 nature reserves in the area of Divčibare, namely Crna Reka, Čalački potok, Žabalac and Vražiji vir.
Mountain peaks of Maljen that you must visit
This mountain is known for its extraordinary vistas, which offer a view of the entire panorama of the landscape, and are simply breathtaking!
Maljen is not the highest point of Valjevo mountains, however, there are as many as 9 peaks on this mountain that exceed 1000 meters above sea level.
We are aware of the fact that not everyone has the time to visit every corner of this mountain, so we have singled out vistas that must be on your travel list:
Kraljev sto
It marks the highest peak of the Maljen mountain, with an impressive height of 1104 m.
Behind its name is a folk legend about Emperor Dušan and the famous battle near Kolubara. Namely, the story dictates that the emperor watched the famous battle between the Serbian and Hungarian armies from that very point.
If you want to visit this enchanting viewpoint yourself, there is an organized tour by train-cart from Divčibare.
Crni vrh
It represents the second-highest peak, with an altitude of 1096 meters.
Most of it is overgrown with dense forest, hence its name. It rises above Divčibare, near the banks of the river Crna Kamenica, and offers enchanting views of the mountains Medvenik, Jablanik, Povlen and Magleš.
Getting to this peak is one of the more demanding routes, and it is recommended to go up by cable car if you are not ready for some more extreme hiking. It is estimated that it takes about half an hour to walk to the very top.
Paljba
Paljba is a fantastic vista elevated at 1051 meters above sea level.
If you are not a fan of hiking or walking, this destination is ideal for you, because it can be reached by car or bus from the center of Divčibare. Namely, the approach is located along the main road, which connects the very center of Divčibare with the road Kosjerić – Valjevo.
Although the walk won’t take your breath away, we guarantee that the incredibly beautiful view of the landscape from the top of the mountain will.
Velika pleća
This hiking trail passes through the pine and birch forest, all the way to the top, which boasts a height of 1037 meters.
From here you will have a view of the beautiful Ravna Gora, the mountains Kablar, Ovčar, Suvobor and the village of Subjel. If the weather is sunny, it is possible to see Kopaonik, Zlatibor and Tara in the distance.
In addition, below the Velika pleća is located the forested canyon of Crna Kamenica, and in the direction of the south, there are the spacious meadows of the plateau Tometino polje, which leads to Požega.
Veliko brdo
Veliko brdo is a vista that you must not miss and it is elevated at 1036 meters above sea level.
From this point, you have a view of numerous Kolubara villages, among which stands out the picturesque Mionica, which is crossed by the Ribnica river. Also, here you have the opportunity to stay in a lush beech forest, as well as to visit the Studenac spring.
We believe that this little oasis will not disappoint you, whether you are headed there with friends, family, or a partner.
Mount Maljen and its cultural heritage – what to visit on Mount Maljen?
This mountain is a popular tourist destination due to its extraordinary landscapes, biodiversity and numerous cultural monuments located in its area.
We strongly recommend a visit to the church of St. Panteleimon, which is located in the very center of Divčibare, as well as the Krčmar monastery in the municipality of Mionica.
There are numerous museums located nearby, such as the Museum of the Principality of Serbia in Gornji Milanovac or the Ethnographic Museum in Valjevo and other cultural institutions.
When it comes to activities that can be practiced on Maljen Mountain, the popular ones are mountain climbing, hiking, cycling, hunting, fishing and skiing in the winter months. The Crna reka is known for its rapids and is suitable for rafting and somewhat more extreme water sports during the summer, while the Sušica River is ideal for fishing and enjoying the natural beauty.
Maljen mountain – accommodation and stay on the mountain
You can choose accommodation following your individual preferences.
If you want a completely invigorating vacation or plan to try different sports activities, we suggest that you decide on Divčibare, which is located only 100 km from Belgrade.
Staying in the mountains and occasionally escaping to nature is always a good idea, and you can also consider the option of investing in your accommodation, such as the aparthotel Knežev Dvor Resort & Spa.
However, if you dream of spending a romantic night with your partner, isolated from civilization, we suggest you choose an ethnic village, such as the village-tourist complex Gostoljublje.
We hope that this blog was interesting as well as informative and that we managed to inspire you to use your imagination and organize an adventure worth remembering – We wish you a pleasant and safe trip!