Češljakovački vis

Češljakovački vis is a peak in the Papuk mountain range in eastern Croatia, situated near the village of Golo Brdo in Požega-Slavonia County. Rising to roughly 825 meters, it marks the easternmost of Papuk's higher summits, right where the range gives way to the neighboring Krndija. It draws hikers looking for quiet forest trails away from the busier corners of Slavonia.

How do you get to Češljakovački vis?

Most visitors start at the Jankovac forest lodge, following a well-marked trail through beech and fir woodland. The full loop connecting Jankovac, Češljakovački vis, and Nevoljaš covers about 14.6 km, takes 5.5 to 6 hours, and gains roughly 700 meters of elevation along the way. The route is signposted as part of both the Slavonian and Croatian long-distance hiking circuits, so junctions are easy to follow even deep in the forest. Allow extra time if you're new to the area — sections can get muddy after rain, and the deeper stretches see relatively little foot traffic.

What will you find at the summit?

The top is a small, forested plateau with a wooden observation tower fitted with a telescope. From the platform you can look out over the surrounding Papuk hills toward the valleys that drain to the Drava and Sava rivers — Češljakovački vis actually sits on the watershed line dividing these two river systems. A logbook box at the summit lets hikers stamp their passage along both the Slavonian and Croatian hiking trail networks. The spot is also popular with geocachers, with a traditional cache hidden nearby.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring and early autumn offer the best conditions, with Papuk's forests at their most colorful and temperatures comfortable for a multi-hour hike. Summer brings dense tree cover for shade, though humidity can build up under the canopy. In winter the trail is often snow-covered and demands proper preparation, but it rewards experienced hikers with quiet, snow-draped views above the treeline.

What should you know before you go?

The Golo Brdo area and Papuk itself are largely undeveloped forest terrain, with no shops or food stalls between Jankovac and the summit. Pack your own water and supplies for the day. An offline map on your phone makes a real difference for navigating trail junctions in the thick forest cover.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Češljakovački vis? The summit sits at approximately 825 meters above sea level, in the eastern part of the Papuk range.

How long does the hike take? The full loop from Jankovac via Češljakovački vis to Nevoljaš typically takes 5.5 to 6 hours, depending on fitness and weather conditions.

Is there a viewpoint at the top? Yes, a wooden observation tower with a telescope stands at the summit, offering views across the surrounding Papuk hills and valleys.

Is the trail suitable for beginners? The path is well marked, but given its length and elevation gain, a basic level of hiking fitness and proper trekking footwear are recommended.