Autumn is in full swing, painting every treetop in shades of gold and brown. Eastern Croatia, famous for its vast forest landscapes, is the perfect destination for lovers of long walks – whether you’re strolling as a couple, with your four-legged friend, or enjoying a moment of peace on your own.
In the region of Srijem, near the magnificent Spačva Forest and close to the town of Županja, lies a wonderful spot for a day trip that will enchant you with its gentle, natural charm.
If you haven’t yet heard of Otočki Virovi, it’s time to put it on your travel list – and there are plenty of ways to explore it!
Explore Otočki Virovi on Two Wheels
Discover the area on a bike through three well-marked circular routes that connect nature, culture, and a touch of adventure.
- Virovi Route (21.5 km, difficulty 3):
Starting at Hotel Virovi, this route follows gravel and asphalt paths to the Virgrad archaeological site and the historic Otočka suvara (a dry mill), before looping back through the Čistine pastures. - Spačva Route (30.2 km, difficulty 2):
Also starting at the hotel, this route leads through forest roads to the village of Bošnjaci and the unique Forestry Museum, returning via a mix of gravel and paved roads. - Bosut Route (42.2 km, difficulty 2):
Beginning in the centre of Otok, the route crosses the Bosut River toward Nijemci, where you can visit the Birdwatching Centre, before returning via Komletinci.
For the Adventurous
If you crave more adrenaline on four wheels, hop on a quad and conquer off-road trails through forests, gravel, and mud. Get ready for a real adventure – just bring the right gear and book your ride!
For a slower pace, take the Educational Trail Virovi, where you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the natural beauty around you. The trailhead is 885 m from the hotel toward Bošnjaci. This beautifully arranged path winds through oak forests, with info boards revealing the flora and fauna of the Spačva Forest – including the charming red-bellied toad (Bombina bombina).
The route ends at a rest area near the Virgrad archaeological site, stretching 2.7 km in total – perfect for a relaxing walk, a family outing, or curious explorers who love to learn as they go.
The Legend of the Virovi
A local legend tells of a young prince from Virgrad who fell in love with a princess from Otok. Her wealthy, proud father demanded an impossible task – the prince could only win her hand if he sailed to Otok in galleys full of gifts.
But love finds a way. Instead of giving up, the prince decided to dig a wide and deep canal from Virgrad to Otok, allowing forest streams to fill it with water.
When the galleys finally reached the shore of Otok, they carried not only gifts but proof that love can reshape the landscape. The father agreed, the young couple married, and the new waterway became known as Virovi.
Today, you can relive this romantic story by canoe or boat, following the same channels once shaped by love itself – and along the way, you’ll meet many fishermen on wooden piers and in boats.
Authentic Flavours of Srijem
After fresh air and outdoor adventures, satisfy your appetite at the Restaurant Virovi, located within the hotel of the same name. The menu celebrates local and seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby family farms.
No visit to Srijem is complete without tasting kulen, smoked sausages, bacon, cracklings, or the hearty čobanac stew. Freshwater fish dishes also feature prominently, straight from local rivers and streams.
And, of course, there’s always room for dessert – because dessert isn’t for the stomach, it’s for the soul! Don’t miss traditional treats like salenjaci (pastries made with pork fat) and tačke (sweet dumplings).
Visitor Centre
In the hotel’s ground floor, a fun and interactive Visitor Centre awaits, where multimedia displays let you explore the world of Otočki Virovi through the eyes of an eagle, a deer, or a fish.
Relax, Rejuvenate, Repeat
If relaxation is your goal, treat yourself to a spa weekend at the hotel’s wellness area. A Finnish sauna and Turkish bath will help you detox, the jacuzzi will melt away tension, and a massage will recharge your energy.
Sounds like the perfect short escape? It is.
And before you leave Srijem, don’t forget to raise a glass to life and pleasure with a fine selection of wines from Srijem and the Danube region.
