Prašuma Janj

This 295 ha forest (Prašuma Janj/Прашума Јањ) is described as "primary" or "virgin" as it has undergone no visible transformation by man. Since 2021, it has been on the Unesco World Heritage list of "Primary Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other European Regions" (93 sites in 20 countries). Located 35 km south-east of Šipovo, on the western slopes of the Stolovaš and Ivik mountains, at altitudes of between 1,180 and 1,510 m, the forest is composed mainly of beech and fir, as well as maple, elm, ash and spruce. Some hundred-year-old beech trees can reach 50 m in height and 3.5 m in diameter. All human activity is forbidden in the heart of the forest (57.2 ha), which has been protected since 1954. The forest is home to bears, wolves, ermines, pine martens, wild boar and, on the bird side, capercaillie, hazel grouse and a small bird of prey, the goshawk (Accipiter gentilis). Most animals are difficult to observe. But a visit in winter allows you to follow the tracks left in the snow by bears, for example. To visit the forest, plan well in advance. You need to apply by e-mail, via the website (online form) or on site at the Gorica management organization. This is located in Šipovo, in the central street (Prve Šipovačke Brigade 1), 100 m northeast of the tourist office. A permit is then issued for a guided tour of the forest, for which a fee is charged.