Vratna Gates

The Vratna gorge holds three natural bridges cut by the river through limestone, called the Small, Large and Dry Gates, the largest of them around thirty metres high and twenty across, among the biggest natural arches in this part of Europe. A path runs up the gorge from the Vratna monastery, a small foundation with medieval roots, reaching the first two arches in twenty minutes or so and the third, higher and dry, on a rougher climb beyond. The gorge is narrow and wooded, and the arches appear suddenly rather than being visible from a distance. The area is part of the karst country of eastern Serbia and sees few visitors, partly because the region as a whole is remote and thinly populated.

What you actually see

• The Large Gate - the biggest of the three arches over the river.
• The Small Gate - the first arch reached from the monastery.
• The Dry Gate - the higher, waterless arch on the climb beyond.
• The wooded gorge - the narrow limestone valley and river.

When to go

April to October; spring brings high water in the gorge and autumn brings colour. Paths are slippery after rain. Winter access is possible but the road and paths can be icy.

Honest expectations

The path beyond the first two arches is rough and involves scrambling. Facilities are minimal, with a small restaurant near the monastery. The region is remote with poor public transport. Signage is limited and mostly in Serbian.

Nearby

Negotin lies northeast; Rajac wine cellars are in the same region.