In the Municipality of Sopje, the centuries-old tradition of “Lilanje na Ivanje” is kept alive in a distinctive way. Many residents of all ages prepare forked sticks with small bundles of straw, set the straw alight and swing the burning sticks around themselves at head height. The preparatory steps and the movement are as much a part of this tradition as the fire itself. For many years, sopjanian Lilanje has also been held as an organised event. This specific practice shapes the local cultural connection: here, heritage is expressed as an activity carried out together, not just as a name.

Nature and history along the way

The part of the Mura-Drava Regional Park associated with Sopje is particularly valuable for its biodiversity and cultural heritage. Attractions along the “Meandrima rijeke Drave” cycle route include a protected group of white poplars and an early medieval cemetery. They represent two different aspects of discovery: the white poplars point to protected nature, while the cemetery speaks to the area’s early history.

Cycle to the Drava

The Dravski krug also passes through Sopje and has no significant climbs. Near Sopje, the route leads to a prepared picnic spot on the banks of the Drava. The routes therefore offer different highlights: one takes you past natural and historical sights; the Dravski krug connects the ride through Sopje with a destination on the riverbank.

Pustara heritage and activities in Višnjica

The Višnjica agrotourism estate preserves rural heritage by restoring a traditional Slavonian Pustara settlement. Here, Pustara heritage is more than an abstract theme: the historic settlement form itself is being restored. You can also take riding lessons there, offered individually or in groups for all age groups. Please confirm bookings and availability directly. Cooking workshops focus on Slavonian Čobanac or Fiš paprikaš. Chefs from the Višnjica restaurant expertly guide you through the preparation; ingredients and equipment are provided. Advance arrangements are required to take part in a workshop.

A taste of the area

At the fifth edition of “Ribarski dan” in 2026, visitors were able to sample Fiš paprikaš and baked fish at the Sopje picnic spot on the Drava. This is a specific culinary connection that offers an interesting contrast with the hands-on cooking in Višnjica: the event focused on tasting, while Višnjica focuses on preparing the dishes under guidance. This distinguishes a one-off festival experience from a workshop that must be arranged in advance.

In the wider Virovitica-Podravina destination

The wider Virovitica-Podravina destination also offers distinctive discoveries of a different kind: the Gradski muzej Virovitica is housed in Dvorac Pejačević, a castle built by the Pejačević family in the 19th century. The permanent exhibition covers two thematic areas, is largely interactive and features more than 1,500 exhibits, as well as over two hours of multimedia content. Jankovac offers another perspective: the protected park forest has two lakes and is home to numerous birds, butterflies and wild animals.

Discover more destinations: Španat, Municipality of Lukač, Municipality of Čađavica, Suhopolje, Municipality of Slatina, Municipality of Špišić Bukovica, Municipality of Čačinci, Municipality of Pitomača.

Go to the overview of the wider destination: Virovitica-Podravina.