Kozbunar: Plackovica and Radoviški Šopluk

Kozbunar can be understood through two points of reference: the village lies on the southern slopes of Mount Plackovica, north of the town of Radoviš. At the same time, it is one of the villages in the ethnographic subregion of Radoviški Šopluk. This gives you different perspectives on the destination when planning your trip: its location on the mountain slope and its cultural affiliation. Both help you consider Kozbunar as a travel destination without conflating the village’s features with the offerings of the wider area.

Location and routes around Kozbunar

A route description from 2023 mentions shortcuts among some villas near Kozbunar that rejoin the asphalt road 15 minutes before the forest lodge. If you use this route description to plan your trip, check the route before setting out. The information describes a specific point where the shortcuts rejoin the road; it does not say anything about current trail conditions.

Plackovica and nature destinations in the wider Radovish destination

The landscape attractions in the wider Radovish destination also offer a distinct point of reference. The highest point of the Plačkovica Mountains is the summit of Lisec, at 1,754 metres. The ascent is possible from the north, south or east; the northern route is described as the easiest. Check current trail conditions when planning a hike.

The caves of Plačkovica include Ćup, Ajdučka, Turtel and Ponor. Marked trails lead to them, and they are considered easy for visitors to access. Here, too, it is advisable to check the current condition of the trails before setting out. Golema Peštera on Plačkovica is another natural feature: it is 600 metres long and contains cave formations. The Kamnik, Kozjak and Zrnovka gorges have infrastructure for getting around, including markers, information boards, signposts, ropes, metal footholds and rest areas. Check their condition when planning your trip. Mount Goten is also associated with hiking, hunting tourism, and gathering medicinal herbs, mushrooms and wild berries.

Culture, history and events in Radovish

In addition to its landscape attractions, Radovish offers various cultural and historical points of interest. An archaeological site is located in Borov Dol; research there points to human life in the Neolithic period around 8,000 years ago. The Church of Sv. Troica in Radoviš has a single-nave, inscribed-cross plan and a vaulted dome area in the Byzantine style. Another historic site lies near the present-day Church of Sv. Gjorgji, two kilometres north of the village of Oraovica: there are the foundations and walls, up to 0.8 metres high, of an old single-nave monastery church. It probably dates from the 14th century; traces of frescoes remain on the south wall.

Events and traditions also shape the region’s cultural calendar. Sv. Spaso Radoviški is a three-day event held every year in mid-August in memory of the patron saint and protector of the town of Radoviš. It includes religious services, a spiritual academy, a procession and a concert. Check the dates for your travel year. Pelivan wrestling in Topolnica is part of a Juruč festival that honours the long-standing tradition of the Juruč people in the municipality of Radoviš. The Karamonovi Poetry Gatherings in Radoviš have a tradition spanning more than 40 years; check dates and programmes separately.

Regional specialities

Radoviš Somun is among the culinary specialities associated with the wider Radovish destination. This local speciality is similar to Štip’s pastırma-like pastry dish or Veles pita. Tatlija is a sweet speciality made with fresh, unsalted cheese, covered with syrup and considered characteristic of the area. Preparation may vary by maker. These dishes add a regional flavour to the cultural and landscape attractions; specific opportunities to try them should be planned separately.

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