Autumn on Papuk brings a vivid palette of colors that tempts every nature lover to explore its trails. Located in the heart of Slavonia, Papuk is a true oasis of biodiversity and cultural and historical attractions, the perfect destination for anyone looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
From the depths of the former Pannonian Sea the peaks of Papuk rise to almost a thousand meters above sea level. This geologically most diverse area of Croatia is the first and only geopark in Croatia. Its layers reveal a history that completely changed the face of the area - from the Pannonian Sea to the splendor of centuries-old beech trees. The changed face in its depths still tells all the lived experiences of the space, ready to share them with the curious!
Huge sea waves broke and bounced off Papuk. Giant sharks, whales and graceful dolphins peeked out from the waves foamed by the force of the blows on the pedal ground. In the safe shelter of the mainland, hunters set up their camps and waited for prey, mammoths and bison.
It is a picture of Papuk while it was an island in the Pannonian Sea, more than ten million years ago. Nature has preserved evidence of that time. Numerous fossil remains millions of years later tell the former sea story of Slavonia.
Interesting locations worth exploring
Geo info center in Voćin offers visitors the opportunity for an interactive journey through the cultural, biological and geological past of Papuk. Here you can discover interesting facts about the glassmakers of Papá, the medieval fortress of Ružica town and Papuk forest endemics. Visitors have the opportunity to experience the dawn in the comfortable rooms of the Jankovac mountain lodge and taste delicacies with the signature of the forest.
Ružica XNUMX c – Fairy gathering place where magical potions were made. Ružica XNUMX c is the largest fortress in northern Croatia and covers eight thousand square meters. Since its origin is shrouded in unknowns, and unknowns become secrets over time, and secrets seek answers in legends, that is how the story about the town of Ružica was created. And he says that once upon a time there was a fairy meeting place where magic potions were made.
You can't leave Papuk Nature Park without visiting Jankovac forest park. Even before Papuk was declared a Nature Park, Jankovac was a protected nature reserve - forest park. It was named after Josip Janković, a member of the Slavonian aristocratic Janković family. The harmonious natural whole consists of a valley, forested slopes, streams, artificial lakes made by Josip pl. Jankovic. At the end of the valley is the 35 meter high Skakavac waterfall.
Advantages of Mountaineering
Hiking in Papuk during autumn is not only a visual pleasure, but also significantly contributes to our physical and mental health. Being in nature has been proven to reduce stress, improve cardiovascular health and increase energy levels. The fresh Slavonian air and soothing sounds of the forest promote inner peace and enable an escape from the digital world.
In conclusion, every hiking adventure on Papuk promises an unforgettable experience, whether you are an enthusiast of discovering natural beauty or simply want to relax and connect with nature. Therefore, put on your hiking boots, bring your camera and get ready to conquer Papuk in all its autumn charms.