Papuk

Papuk is a mountain in Slavonia, the northeastern region of Croatia, on the very edge of the Pozhega Valley. The highest peak is Papuk with heights slightly less than 1000 meters. Papuk has been a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers since the mid-19th century, when a local nobleman had a vision and began creating a nature park on Papuk around Lake Jankovac. Since then, hikers and mountaineers from all over Slavonia have visited Papuk enjoying the spring waters and reviving the dense forest. On the mountain is the first Croatian geological monument of nature, called Rupnica. The dense forests of Papuk are a habitat and shelter for deer, roe deer, wild boar, foxes and martens.Papuk waters are also intriguing and dynamic. Namely, mountain streams are home to specific species of fish, amphibians, reptiles and aquatic invertebrates. Papuk has several water sources - Chadavica, Karasica and Pakra - which contribute to the attractiveness of this area, as well as freshness in the warm summer months. Another tradition on Papuk is viticulture, so the southern slopes of Papuk are full of neat vineyards maintained by local winegrowers.The freshness of the Papuk forests hides the remains of seven ancient cities. Most of the fortresses date from the 13th century, the period of the Ottoman invasion. Papuk Nature Park offers the pleasure of discovering the mountains and waterfalls of Slavonia. A simple desire to travel is all you need to get here because the area is mild, suitable for recreation and does not require special equipment or skills.

№55 in The mountains of Croatia