Exploring Serbia’s Belgrade: Resava Cave, Manasija Monastery & Lisine Waterfall in Pomoravlje District

Serbia is one of the largest and most populated countries in the Balkans, and its capital Belgrade is one of the largest and most historic cities in Europe. In addition to its relentless and vibrant culture, the city offers an array of sights, activities, and attractions to explore. From the cobblestone streets of Kalemegdan Fortress to the booming nightlife along Knez Mihailova Street, Belgrade has something for everyone!

One of the most popular and sought-after activities for visitors to Belgrade is exploring the nearby countryside. Located in the beautiful and atmospheric Pomoravlje District, there lies a wealth of UNESCO-certified historical and cultural sites, set among breathtaking natural landscapes.

The most popular of these, Resava Cave, Manasija Monastery, and Lisine Waterfall are all just a short drive from downtown Belgrade, and are must-see attractions for those visiting the city or the wider region. In this guide, we explore the unique histories, incredible architecture, and breathtaking beauty of these three sites.

Resava Cave

Resava Cave is one of the longest underground cave systems in Europe and is a natural wonder that stretches over 10km. It was first discovered in 1929 by world-renowned Serbian speleologist Jovan Cvijic, and his legacy carries on today as Resava Cave has been certified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The sheer magnitude of the cave system is breathtaking, with 14 vast chambers filled with strange rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites, underground rivers and lakes, and mysterious underground depths to explore. As you make your way deeper into the underground passages, you’ll come across an incredible array of wildlife, such as bats, spiders and snakes.

The cave is open all year-round and there are guided tours of the area led by experienced guides that are more than happy to share their knowledge on the cave’s history and ecosystem. Resava Cave truly is a must-see attraction that will leave you feeling awed by its fascinating beauty.

Manasija Monastery

Located just a short drive away from Resava Cave lies Manasija Monastery; a historical Orthodox Serb monastery that can be found on Mount Manasija near the village of Despotovac in eastern Serbia.

Formally known as Ravanica Monastery, it was built in 1407 by Serbian despot Stefan Lazar Hrebeljanovic who wanted to create a fortress and a spiritual sanctuary for local Christians. Its lofty walls made it an impenetrable fortress that stood for centuries until it was finally destroyed in 1690.

Today it is a fascinating archaeological site that still holds many traces of its medieval past. Walk through its sacristy and refectory, marvel at its fortifications and take time to explore its many crypts. It truly is a must-see site for anyone interested in medieval history or sunkissed architecture.

Lisine Waterfall

The final stop on your tour of Belgrade is to Lisine Waterfall in the village of Velika Jezava. Located high up in the Zlatibor Mountains, the cascade of water tumbles down from high rock faces onto snowy valleys below. The picturesque scene combined with its sheer size makes it one of the most striking waterfalls in the whole of Serbia.

The steps leading down from the high peaks to the waterfall below allow visitors to take in an incredible backdrop from above, with snow-capped mountain peaks stretching out into the distant horizon. For those looking for a more physical route down to the waterfall, there is also an easy-to-follow trail around the mountain’s edge.

The waterfall itself has been carved out over many centuries by melting snow from the nearby mountains and offers visitors a refreshing swim or splash around in the ice-cold waters. There are also plenty of spots around to set up picnics and watch the incredible natural beauty of Lisine Waterfall in all its glory.

Exploring Belgrade: A Fascinating & Historic Adventure

Belgrade not only offers visitors a vibrant urban atmosphere with bars, clubs and cafe’s, but also allows them to explore some of Serbia’s most breathtaking natural wonderlands, as well as its deep-rooted history at Resava Cave, Manasija Monastery, and Lisine Waterfall. This fascinating combination of city buzz and exploration allows visitors to immerse themselves in the unique culture of Serbia during their visit to Belgrade.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to check out everything this part of Serbia has to offer for yourself then why not check out this full-day tour that takes in all three these sights plus so much more!