Natural monument: Sopotnica waterfalls

Definition of natural monument: A natural monument is a small, unchanged or partially changed natural region, structure or phenomenon. It has clear physical definition, is recognisable and unique and has special geological, botanical, water and other characteristics. It also includes man-made botanical features with scientific aesthetic, cultural and educational value.

Sopotnica waterfalls 

Sopotnica is renown for its gorgeous icy-cold Sopotnica springs with ancient watermills and the several waterfalls at the height of 1000 meters, just above the tiny village. Surrounded by carpets of stunning fields full of fragrant flowers and medicinal herbs in the very heart of unique eco environment, Sopotnica area was declared by the end of year 2005 for the Nature Park of Serbia. During their stay in Sopotnica village visitors enjoy in various nature-based activities, entirely amazed by wonders and surprises of nature.

The Sopotnice waterfalls are in southwestern Serbia, on the river Sopotnica, on the western slopes of the mountain of Jadovnik. They are located in the distric of Prijepolje in the area of the village of Sopotnica.

This monument of nature includes the source of the surface course of the river Sopotnica, with a number of springs which form rivulets. These rivulets first combine and then branch out to form a series of waterfalls. Another major attraction besides the rivulets and waterfall are the old, restored water mills. The most attractive is the Veliki vodopad (‘Great Waterfall’).

The plant life of Sopotnica comprises 62 varieties, of which 10 are shelf fungi and 52 types of moss – a high degree of diversity for such a small area.

The ethnic and cultural setting of this area, with its numerous unique features of mixed ethnicity, traditional village hospitality and various valuable examples of vernacular architecture, are also part of what makes the Sopotnica valley so important.