Mala Ivanča between Avala and Trešnja

Mala Ivanča and Lake Trešnja lie on the southern slopes of Avala. When planning a trip, local history, the surrounding landscape and specific points of interest for excursions offer three distinct perspectives. The lake, a trail with panoramic views of Avala and the protected old house of the Žmurić family each add their own character. Some points of interest are in Mala Ivanča itself, while others—such as the healthy food fair—are in the wider area, in Sopot. This distinction helps you include local history, nature and regional events appropriately in your plans.

Lake Trešnja and the Landscape

Nearby Lake Trešnja is artificial and was created by building a dam across a forest stream. It is about 150 metres long and up to 30 metres wide, and is surrounded by a forest of deciduous and coniferous trees of the same name. Its length relative to its maximum width gives it an elongated profile. The lake is visited by swimmers, day-trippers, people enjoying barbecues, cyclists and other nature lovers.

Trails and Getting There

A trail through the Mala Ivanča area leads after about two kilometres to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Avala. If you include trails in your trip plans, the approximate distance provides a useful point of reference for an excursion with scenic views. Lake Trešnja lies below Avala, near Mala Ivanča. You can get there via Avalski put or by motorway, taking the exit at Vrčin. Check road conditions and signage before setting off.

For bus travel, route 44141 connects Sopot, Mala Ivanča and Mali Požarevac. Route 470A connects Belgrade with Mala Ivanča via Parcani and Avalski put. Check current timetables and stops before departure, as routes and stops may change.

Culture and History

An ethnographic account from 1903 reports that Mala Ivanča was originally located in Pusta Ivanča and was later moved to its present location. It also places the settlement on a ridge between the Ralja River and the Raljić stream. The historical account thus links the settlement’s development with its topographic setting. The old house and farmstead of the Žmurić family in Mala Ivanča are a protected immovable cultural property. According to local tradition, there was an old church near Orašje. The protected house and the story about the church are distinct cultural and historical points of reference: one is designated a cultural property, while the other belongs to local tradition.

Tournament and Fair in the Region

For events, the year and location are important points of reference. In 2024, the twelfth edition of the “Miodrag Bazić–Baza” memorial small-sided football tournament began in Mala Ivanča. This edition was organised by the Mala Ivanča Local Community, the “Mladost” Mala Ivanča football club and the Municipality of Sopot. If you are planning your trip around a tournament, check the latest dates in advance.

In the wider area around Mala Ivanča, the “Milena Tatar” healthy food fair is traditionally held in Sopot. It brings together producers of organic food from Sopot and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about organic production methods and sample dishes prepared by exhibitors.

Discover more destinations: Vinča, Sopot, Ovča, Jakovo, Obrenovac, Koracica, Dobanovci, Vrčin

For the broader travel overview: Belgrade.