Potpećka Cave – The Tallest Cave Entrance in Serbia
Another sunny day is perfect for exploring nature in the Zlatibor region. This time, we’re visiting Potpećka Cave, located near Zlatibor and Užice – a place that’s been on our wish list for a while. Exploring caves, even if only the parts open to the public, always inspires us to hit the road. And when you add the title of “the tallest cave entrance in Serbia,” there’s no need for further persuasion.
First encounter with the cave – A lasting impression
As soon as you arrive in the village of Potpeć, the cave appears like a scene from an epic tale. A massive limestone cliff dominates the landscape, with a horseshoe-shaped entrance opening up from it – enormous, almost surreal. This is the tallest cave entrance in Serbia, standing at 50 meters high. Truly, standing before it feels like standing at the gates of a mythical world.
700 steps to underground
A marked path leads to the cave, but be prepared for a decent climb and around 700 steps. It’s not overly strenuous if you’re used to walking, but if not – you might need a break or two. In any case, the view of the surrounding landscape makes every step worthwhile.
Access to the cave is only possible with a guide and as part of an organized tour.
The inner world – Hallways through time
The cave tour lasts about 45 minutes and takes you through 555 meters of arranged paths. Inside, you’ll find vast chambers, underground corridors, various stalactite and stalagmite formations, and even unusual helictites – rare cave formations that grow in all directions.
Potpećka Cave is a true treasure trove of cave formations, and thanks to their origin and variety, it is one of the most unique caves in the region. It’s a spring-type cave, shaped by underground rivers that re-emerge as the Petnica River. The cave consists of two levels: the older Upper Cave and the younger Lower Cave.
Inside, an entire world of stalactites and stalagmites unfolds, arranged in halls named after fairy tale or legendary shapes. The tour begins at the “Pointed Rock,” followed by the “Ceiling Hall,” whose dome resembles a Byzantine cupola. Passing through the “Main Corridor,” “Passage of Hope,” and “Miner’s Passage,” you reach the “Gallery of Young Explorers” and “Cvijić’s Hall,” and finally the “Bat Passage,” which leads to the “Dreznik Canal” – part of the cave system stretching between Potpeć and the village of Dreznik.
Formations such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Don Quixote,” and the “Bridal Veil” can be seen here – each with its own story, all coming together to create an underground fairy tale.
The cave was inhabited during the Neolithic era, with remains such as carved deer antlers, stone tools, and weapons found inside. In the past, a river flowed through the upper part of the cave, creating a waterfall behind which the lower part of the cave was inhabited. Under the pressure of the water, the wall between the two levels collapsed, forming today’s monumental opening.
Looking out from the upper level, which quite coincidentally resembles the shape of a mammoth (elephant), it’s easy to imagine early humans walking through these passages.
A short break and a view of the Petnica spring
At the end of the tour, it’s worth stopping by the spring of the Petnica River, which emerges directly from the cave. There’s a nicely arranged rest area there, with benches and shade – a perfect spot for a snack and some reflection. The water is clear, cold, and refreshing – a true mountain spring.
How to get to Potpećka cave
The cave is located in the village of Potpeć, about 14 km from Užice and 25 km from the center of Zlatibor. If you’re coming from Zlatibor, follow the road toward Užice, then turn left at the village of Zlakusa toward Potpeć (there is a sign). The road is paved and well marked. There is a parking lot in front of the cave, and the path to the entrance is well maintained.
Opening hours and useful information
Opening hours: The cave is open daily during the summer season (usually from April to October), from 10 AM to 6 PM. In winter, it’s open on weekends and holidays – but it’s best to check in advance.
Tickets: The ticket price for adults is about 500 RSD; it’s slightly lower for children and pensioners.
Guided tours: Visitors enter with a guide in groups, every hour.
Tip: Bring layered clothing – the temperature in the cave is around 9–10°C year-round. Also, wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.
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