On the slopes of Mount Ozren in southeastern Serbia, just 15 km from Aleksinac, is one of the most accessible and easiest “via ferrata” routes in Serbia. In the immediate vicinity of the ferrata is the monastery of Saint Stefan, built in the second half of the 14th century at the source of the Saint Stefan’ River. It is under the protection of the Republic of Serbia as a monument of culture of exceptional importance.
Tour plan:
Departure from the hotel in Niš at 9:00 a.m., followed by a one-hour transfer to the village of Lipovac. Upon arrival, we introduce the team, go over the equipment, and provide an overview of the activities ahead.
The approach to the ferrata begins from the parking lot next to the Monastery of Saint Stefan, with a 10-minute walk leading to the starting point. The route starts with metal ladders at the trailhead, followed by a longer vertical section equipped with artificial handholds and footholds to facilitate movement. A secured cable ensures maximum safety for every climber throughout the ascent. As we climb, breathtaking views unfold, showcasing the monastery, surrounding nature, and distant mountain peaks. After completing the first vertical section, we reach a plateau where we take a short break. An evacuation route is available from this point. The ferrata then continues along a rock face with alternating vertical and horizontal sections—arguably the most scenic part of the climb—also equipped with additional safety features.
The final section leads us to a cross marking the endpoint of the ferrata. From here, an unforgettable panoramic view stretches across the surrounding natural and cultural landmarks. After enjoying some time at the summit, we descend via a forest path back to the starting point. Free time is provided to visit the monastery and appreciate the serene natural surroundings.
A lunch break follows at a nearby restaurant before we head back to Niš, arriving in the afternoon. End of the program.
Details:
- Transportation
- Licensed (via ferrata) guides
- Necessary equipment (ferrata kit, harness, helmet)
- Organization expenses and
- Guidance throughout the journey.
- Food
- Personal expenses.
Sneakers or climbing shoes, T-shirts, a hooded waterproof jacket, a sweatshirt, and spare pants. Don’t forget sunglasses, a cap, and suntan cream. It’s also recommended to bring candy bars, snacks, refreshing drinks, and water. Pack everything in a small backpack.
A 50% advance payment of the total arrangement price is required at the time of booking. The remaining amount must be paid no later than 20 days before the start of the trip (with the option of installment payments). This program is based on a minimum of 8 registered participants. In case of changes in the monetary market (or the market of goods and services) or an insufficient number of registered participants, the tour organizer reserves the right to adjust prices, modify the program, or cancel the trip no later than 5 days before the scheduled departure.
Via ferrata, or iron path, represents a secured “mountaineering” trail, mostly on rocky vertical terrain. As such, it is secured with a cable to which the user “attaches” using equipment designed for such activities, and depending on the difficulty, there are “drilled” footholds in the rock. The Lipovac via ferrata is 190 meters long, with a height difference of 90 meters. The access and return time is 10 minutes. The approximate time for crossing this via ferrata, depending on the group, is one hour. Ferrata rating: B.
According to the Serbian Law on Tourism (Article 79), for one-day excursions (trips shorter than 24 hours), protection is not provided in terms of travel guarantee.
The organizer of the trip is travel agency Nature Travel Office, licence number OTP 38/2025 issued by the Business Register Agency as of May 06, 2025. Nature Travel Office is insured by an insurance policy against responsibility for travel agencies in case of insolvency and liability in case of damage to the traveller, number 30000049351, by the insurer MILENIJUM OSIGURANJE ADO Belgrade. The policy is valid from April 01, 2025 to April 01, 2026. In this program, travel agency Nature Travel Office applies their general terms and conditions of traveling, which are included in signing up for the trip.
