thetrainfamilyImagine a journey inspired by the enchanting landscapes of the Balkans, set into motion by a captivating BBC program called “Extreme Trainrides.” Hosted by the charismatic Chris Tarrent, this show painted a vivid picture of the breathtaking route from Belgrade to Bar. It was a tale of adventure that left an indelible mark on our travel-loving souls, beckoning us to embark on a voyage that promised both beauty and excitement. Guided by the wisdom of fellow globetrotters from various travel blogs for instance this wellwritten one from “Kathmandu and beyound”, we decided to heed their advice and break our journey into smaller, more immersive segments. Thus, we found ourselves drawn to the captivating allure of Uzice in Serbia and Podgorica in Montenegro. In this installment, join us as we unveil the treasures of Uzice and share the delights of our stay.
An Old and beautiful city in the mountains
Nestled in the embrace of western Serbia, Uzice stands as a medium-sized city with a population of around 54,000. Its origins trace back to the ancient tapestry of history, a legacy that dates back to the 3rd century BC. Among the city’s cherished jewels is the captivating ancient castle, a relic from the 1300s that beckons explorers to unravel its stories. The path to this historical gem is an easy stroll or drive away from the heart of the city, connecting visitors with the echoes of a bygone era. Stari Grad, or the Old Town, casts a mesmerizing spell over its mountain area as evening descends.
A Glimpse into Uzice’s Timeless Charm
But Uzice’s significance extends far beyond its picturesque landscapes. It played a pivotal role in the tumultuous pages of Yugoslavia’s history. A beacon of resistance, Uzice was liberated from German occupation during World War II in 1941, briefly emerging as a defiant mini-state. Though this chapter was short-lived, it remains a testament to the city’s unwavering spirit and the resilience of its people. As a poignant tribute, the “Memorial of Kadinjaca” stands 14 km outside the city, a testament to the sacrifices made during those trying times.
Brutalist architecture
A standout among the citys architecture is the iconic Hotel Zlatibor, a true masterpiece of brutalist architecture that took its final form in 1981. The allure of this unique structure captured our imagination even before our arrival, serving as a pivotal reason for choosing Uzice as our pitstop. Our Airbnb apartment nestled conveniently close to the hotel, providing us with a view into the past through its weathered yet captivating windows.
As we peered out of our kitchen window, we were greeted by the striking presence of the hotel. No longer a functioning hotel, of a clothing store in its basement. We went inside Hotel Zlatibor and couldn’t resist trying to walk up the stairs. To our great surprise, we ended up in a banquet hall where many people were setting tables and getting ready for a party. Later in the city, we witnessed a newlywed couple emerging from the town hall and dancing the “Balkan dance” with the excited guests. And in the evening, loud music could be heard from the hotel, indicating a likely connection between the wedding and the preparations we had observed earlier.
A dip on a hot day
On a casual stroll, we stumbled upon a hidden oasis – a petite waterpark. The icing on the cake? Entry was free of charge! A quick dash to our Airbnb fetched the children’s swimsuits, and soon enough, the kids had fun riding the water slide.
While Uzice’s river might not be recommended for swimming, the city’s daring youth held no reservations about embracing its waters and made fearless leaps from the railway bridge.
A Farewell to Uzice
Stay tuned for the next chapter of our Balkan adventure, as we venture into the picturesque landscapes of Podgorica, Montenegro with the Belgrade-Bar train.
The view of Uzice from Stari Grad. The Zlatibor hotel is seen in the middel of the city looking like a space rocket ready for launch
