Kozbunar – on the southern slopes of Plackovica

• Location: on the southern slopes of Mount Plackovica, north of the town of Radoviš.
• Cultural classification: one of the villages of the ethnographic Radoviški Šopluk.

A route description from 2023 mentions shortcuts near Kozbunar that pass between some villas. They rejoin the asphalt road 15 minutes before the forest lodge. The time refers to this point on the described route. If you plan to follow it, check the current trail conditions in advance.

In the wider destination of Radovish, the summit of Lisec is the highest peak of the Plačkovica range, at 1,754 metres. The ascent is possible from the north, south, or east; the northern route is considered the easiest. Golema Peštera on Plačkovica is 600 metres long and features cave formations. Marked paths lead to the caves Ćup, Ajdučka, Turtel, and Ponor; they are considered easily accessible to visitors. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

The three gorges of Kamnik, Kozjak, and Zrnovka are also among Radovish’s natural attractions. Infrastructure for getting around there includes trail markers, information boards, signposts, ropes, iron fittings, and rest areas; check their condition locally before setting out. Mount Goten is suitable for hiking, hunting tourism, and gathering medicinal herbs, mushrooms, and forest fruits. The 26.7-kilometre-long Plavaja River is suitable for fishing and freshwater fish farming. These details distinguish different types of landscapes and activities rather than combining them into a single excursion theme.

The Church of Sv. Troica in Radoviš has a single-nave plan with an inscribed cross and a vaulted domed section in the Byzantine style. Another historical site is the Church of Sv. Gjorgji, two kilometres north of the village of Oraovica. The foundations and walls, which stand up to 0.8 metres high, of an old single-nave monastery church remain beside the present-day church. It probably dates from the 14th century, and traces of frescoes remain on its southern wall. An archaeological site is located in Borov Dol. Research shows that human life had already developed there in the Neolithic period, about 8,000 years ago.

Cultural events include the traditional three-day event Sv. Spaso Radoviški. It takes place every year in mid-August in memory of the patron saint and protector of the town of Radoviš, and includes religious services, a spiritual academy, a procession, and a concert. Check the specific event date when planning your trip. Pelivan wrestling in Topolnica is part of a Juruč festival celebrating the long-standing tradition of the Juruč population in the municipality of Radoviš. The Karamonovi poetry gatherings in Radoviš have a tradition spanning more than 40 years.

Radoviš somun is a local speciality. It resembles a Štiper, a pastry dish similar to pastırma, or Veleser pita. Another characteristic local dessert is Tatlija: it is made with fresh, unsalted cheese and drizzled with syrup. Its preparation may vary by producer. The two dishes therefore differ both in their described form and in that Tatlija is specifically classified as a sweet speciality.

Where is Kozbunar?

Kozbunar lies on the southern slopes of Mount Plackovica and north of the town of Radoviš.

What does Radoviški Šopluk refer to in relation to Kozbunar?

Radoviški Šopluk is the ethnographic subregion that Kozbunar belongs to.

How is the ascent of Lisec described?

The ascent is possible from the north, south, or east. The northern route is considered the easiest; check current trail conditions before setting out.

For the wider travel overview: Radovish.