TAOR SPRINGS

Legend says that Taors springs used to be more attractive and more beautiful than Plitvice lakes in Croatia! Today, Taor springs are totally forgotten, even though they used to be an integral part of every tourist brochure in Serbia! And why is that? Because in the ancient 70’s some smart asses in the local government decided to cap the water source, so they destroy this jewel of nature. Explanation was that Kosjeric does not have enough water, although the water does not lack in this area! What a pity!

Taor springs can be reached via Kosjeric, which is 136 km away from Belgrade. You must drive by the Ibar highway to Valjevo and then, just before the entrance in town, turn left toward Kosjeric (there is a sign). You will need about 3 hours of drive from Belgrade to Kosjeric and another half an hour to the village of Drenovac. In Kosjeric is a signpost to this village. We stopped at the railway station Razana and continued toward springs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The path is not marked, but it will be soon. We hiked for 15 km through the hamlets Obradovici, Sandici and Cirovina. We passed through the village of Radanovci.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we arrived at the village of Donji Taor. River Skrapez runs through it.

First we saw the lower waterfall of Taor springs, which is not so attractive.

Once 11 water mills were located at this place, now only two exists. Unfortunately, they are ruined and rusty. We went to the upper waterfall and saw a beautiful sight!

I am quite sure that most of the Serbs does not have a clue about this place! Does anyone remembers how attractive these springs used to be? Tufa accumulation reminded me at the river Panjica canyon near Arilje. Capped source is the source of hot water. And now, look at this rock and imagine a powerful scene – from it’s cliff the water was falling!

There is an easier way to get to the Taor springs. You must went to the village of Seca Reka from Kojseric and then to the village of Makoviste. Distance between Kosjerić and Makoviste is 16 km. Turn at village Sijanje, on the right, pass next to the cemetery and go downhill for 3 km, to the village of DonjiTaor. There is a shorter way near the cemetery, but it goes through the woods and meadows, it is a little difficult to find the right path. But, it is worth of try, Taor springs provides a scene that is really rarely seen!

October 2014.