Kapovac

Kapovac is the highest peak of the Krndija mountain range, rising above the town of Kutjevo in Požega-Slavonia County, Croatia. At 792 metres above sea level, it marks the western end of Krndija, which forms a natural continuation of the neighbouring Papuk range to the east. Together the two ranges form one of the defining landscape features of Slavonia — a chain of forested hills rising above the flatter agricultural plains around them.

Where exactly is Kapovac?

The peak sits at the meeting point of several municipalities: Kutjevo borders it to the south, while Orahovica and Našice lie to the north. The surrounding terrain is densely wooded, dominated by mixed beech and oak forest typical of Slavonian uplands. Krndija and Papuk together separate the Drava valley from the Požega basin, which is why the higher stretches of the range offer views over both sides of the region.

How do you get to the top?

The shortest and most convenient approach starts at Međa pass, the highest point on the mountain road connecting Kutjevo and Orahovica. From there, an unpaved forest road climbs to the summit; vehicle access is restricted on its final stretch, so the last part has to be covered on foot. Trail markings are sparse, but the terrain is straightforward enough that finding the way is rarely a problem even without them. The route is regularly used by Croatian mountaineering clubs, which organise group hikes across Krndija, often combining Kapovac with the nearby Petrov vrh peak or the Mlaka mountain hut. Kapovac is also one of the stops on the so-called Kutjevo circular trail, a loop of hiking paths around Kutjevo maintained by the Croatian Mountaineering Association.

What will you find at the summit?

Like the rest of the range, the peak is covered in forest, and its most recognisable landmark is a television transmitter mast visible from far away — it is what makes Kapovac identifiable on the horizon even from the outskirts of Kutjevo. At the very top stands a triangulation point, a permanent geodetic survey marker, alongside a metal post holding a box with a stamp and a visitors' logbook — a traditional feature of Croatian mountain summits where hikers record their ascent. Nearby is a viewpoint known as Vidikovac Kapovac, offering a panorama over the surrounding hills and valleys of Slavonia.

When is the best time to visit?

Because the trail runs through forest on an unpaved surface, spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons to hike, with mild temperatures and less mud than after heavy rain. In summer, dense foliage limits the views along the lower sections of the trail, though the summit and viewpoint still offer open vistas. Winter can make the road harder to walk due to snow, but experienced hikers visit Kapovac year-round — local mountaineering groups organise trips there even in February and March.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Kapovac? Kapovac reaches 792 metres above sea level, making it the highest point of the entire Krndija range.

Where should you start the hike? The shortest route begins at Međa pass, the highest point on the road between Kutjevo and Orahovica.

Can you drive to the summit? No — vehicle traffic is prohibited on the final stretch of the forest road, so the last part must be walked.

What can you find at the top? A television transmitter mast, a triangulation point, and a metal box with a stamp and visitors' logbook.