The Šargan Eight — Attraction in City of Užice

If you love history and are a nature lover, then this is the perfect place for you.

From the parking lot to the Mokra Gora station, you pass through a tunnel under the railway, where a lot of historical information about the railway is displayed.  Upon exiting, you will see wooden buildings with a very impressive appearance - they are restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops.  While you are waiting for your Ćiro (now called Nostalgija) you can look around the place.  Nearby is a steam locomotive on display that still has a strong smell of grease from lubrication. It is convenient to buy the ticket earlier so that you can "catch" your seat on the train.

It is a real pleasure to ride this narrow-gauge railway. The experience and impression are excellent. The seats in the carriages are quite uncomfortable, but you quickly forget that part when the train starts because you are engrossed in the changing scenes on the window.  The whole ride takes a little more than two hours.  While driving to Šargan Vitasi station, the train does not stop, while on the way back it stops at every station.The railway winds through hills and forests, crosses over bridges and through tunnels, so you have the impression of being in a fairy tale or part of a picture. In order for the train to cover a distance of three kilometers and pass a difference in height of 300 meters, it must travel over 15 kilometers and cross itself three times (this is how the turns in the figure of eight are created).  In terms of the number of bridges and tunnels, as well as loops on the way up, Šargan Eight is a unique railway in Europe. At the time, the railway connected Belgrade with Sarajevo and Dubrovnik and Boka Kotorska.  It was the famous Ćiro, of whom there is not much left in other countries. This section was restored and saved from oblivion in 2003.

Definitely, a...

The Šargan Eight train journey in Serbia offers a unique and enchanting experience through the picturesque landscapes of the Balkans. This narrow-gauge heritage railway, traversing the stunning Šargan Mountain, is a testament to engineering brilliance and a window into Serbia's rich cultural and historical tapestry.

Embarking on the Šargan Eight journey is like stepping into a time machine, as vintage steam locomotives or retro diesel engines pull carriages adorned with nostalgic charm. The rhythmic chug of the train sets the pace for a leisurely exploration of Serbia's countryside, where verdant forests, meandering rivers, and quaint villages unfold before your eyes.

The highlight of the journey is undoubtedly the Šargan Eight's unique track layout, featuring a series of switchbacks and tunnels that wind their way up the mountain. As the train navigates these twists and turns, passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with each bend revealing a new vista to admire and capture on camera.

Along the route, the train makes a stop at the station of Jatare, where passengers can disembark to stretch their legs and savor local delicacies at the nearby restaurant. The friendly locals add to the charm, welcoming visitors with warm hospitality and stories of the region's rich history.

While the Šargan Eight journey may be relatively short in duration, lasting around two hours, its impact is long-lasting. It offers a glimpse into Serbia's rural life and cultural heritage, leaving travelers with memories to cherish and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the Balkans. Whether you're a railway enthusiast or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Šargan Eight train journey is an experience not...

This tourist attraction should be viewed from several aspects. First of all, what can be seen will be miraculous for many. Because what was once an engineering necessity and solution is now an attraction that can and should be enjoyed. Before I passed through this revitalized part of the Šargan railway line, I actually traveled here on the famous "Ćira". More than six decades ago, I passed through here traveling to the Adriatic Sea on the route Čačak - Sarajevo - Ploče. It was night and of course I didn't see anything. But I have traveled here often and had the opportunity to experience what is called the Chargani Eight. And to choke on smoke and soot while the train passed through numerous tunnels. And now something about other aspects. That part of the comment is more intended for those who manage this tourist treasure. As usual, a little better organization is missing. The fact is that we live in the age of information technology and it is possible to secure a driving ticket in advance. But we should also think about intentional travelers. Who use the road through Šargan to reach the Adriatic Sea or other tourist destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro. It would be nice if they were given a chance to ride the railway. We should also think about increasing the capacity to accommodate guests who stay longer. Perhaps it should be considered to renew or create new compositions for the transport of passengers. And some additional contents during driving could be designed. For example. service on the train itself or at the Jatare station. I hope to ride this track again next summer. And that I will enjoy the landscapes of...