Holidays in Bosnia Away from the crowds
A vacation in Bosnia away from the crowds is so easy to organize and will be unforgettable. When you think of a vacation in Europe, popular destinations like Paris, Rome and Barcelona may come to mind.
However, if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of these cities, my home country of Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a unique experience, rich in history, stunning landscapes and authentic charm. Here is a travel guide full of my recommendations for a peaceful holiday in Bosnia and Herzegovina away from the crowds.
- Holidays in Bosnia away from the crowds in Visoko
- Holidays in Bosnia away from the crowds in Jajce
- Explore Una National Park for a peaceful holiday
- Holidays in Bosnia away from the crowds in Konjic
- Trebinje is also a nice option for a peaceful holiday
- Practical tips for a peaceful holiday in Bosnia
- Conclusion
Holidays in Bosnia away from the crowds in Visoko
Visoko is home to a fascinating archaeological site – the Bosnian Pyramids. Although their origin and authenticity are disputed, a visit to these pyramids is an adventure into the mysteries of ancient civilizations. The lush landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for hiking and exploring.
The foundation that finances this entire site has developed different types of tourism - archaeological, healing, voluntary and spiritual. In recent years they have acquired 65,000 square meters of neglected, swampy land. They drained and rehabilitated it, organized the forest, planted grass and created the most beautiful park in southern Europe.
The park “Ravne 2” features numerous donations from all over the world, from megalithic blocks with artistically carved symbols to spiral botanical gardens, energy stone installations, a stone ball park, recreational trails and children's playgrounds. There is also a stage for concerts and meditation, making it a true oasis of spiritual peace.
The most famous visitor to Visoko was the world's best tennis player Novak Đoković. "If there is a paradise on earth, it is here. I have visited numerous energy places all over the world, but this is the strongest. This is the home of my soul," Đoković said during his visit, and what says more about a quiet holiday in Bosnia away from the crowds than that?
For your convenience and a better understanding of this Complex here is the link to their website where you will find everything that might interest you.
Holidays in Bosnia away from the crowds in Jajce
Jajce is a picturesque town famous for its stunning waterfall that falls into the Pliva River right in the town center. The lack of large tourist crowds makes Jajce a perfect place for your vacation away from the crowds.
If you visit the city's website, you will find a calendar of upcoming events, ticket prices and a city map. Here is the link to this website which will surely be very helpful. I can tell you that Jajce is very affordable. Prices range from 2 euros to 15 euros for zipline, which is a great option if you are looking for a bit of adventure too.
Besides the waterfall, which is a symbol of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Jajce has much more to offer. If you want to know more about this waterfall, be sure to read one of my previous posts about. An interesting part of the history of this city are the Catacombs. They are interesting structures located within the city walls, near the Bear Tower. This monument is an underground church carved into massive rock. At the end of the 14th and beginning of the 15th century, the powerful Duke Hrvoje Vukčić Hrvatinić had the Catacombs built as the final resting place for the Hrvatinić ducal family.
Another part of its history is the Mithraeum (3rd/4th century AD). This is the oldest national monument in Jajce. The cult of the invincible sun god Mithras was widespread in all provinces of the Roman Empire, including the province of Dalmatia, which included most of today's Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Exploring the local beauty and learning the history of an interesting country ticks all the boxes for a quiet holiday in Bosnia away from the crowds in my book.
Explore Una National Park for a peaceful holiday
For nature lovers, Una National Park is a must-see. The highlight is the Štrbački Buk waterfall, a breathtaking sight surrounded by untouched nature. Kayaking, rafting and hiking are popular activities here, meaning you can experience both adventure and relaxation.
Una National Park is one of three national parks in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You can find it in the western part of Bosnia, south of the city of Bihać, right on the border between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia.
Una National Park is only 40 km from Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, so this part of my country is easy to visit if you are already in Croatia. The easiest way to reach the park is by car. There are six entrances, all of which are accessible by car. If you want to see the waterfalls at Štrbački Buk, it is recommended to use the main entrance at Gorjevac. To visit the waterfalls at Milančev Buk, use the entrance at Martin Brod.
For your convenience here is the Link to their website, where you can find directions, upcoming events in town, recommended activities to explore the mountains and all about the local cuisine. I hope you'll give it a try because it's worth it.
Holidays in Bosnia away from the crowds in Konjic
Konjic is one of those towns that can surprise you. This is my hometown and I can assure you that it is ideal for escaping the urban hustle and bustle. Although it is small, it has a lot to offer. Activities you can enjoy in Konjic include rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, camping, climbing and quad biking.
The town of Konjic stretches over an altitude of 270 meters (the level of Lake Jablanica) to 2,155 meters (the peak of Mount Prenj). It includes the mountain ranges of Prenj, Visočica, Bjelašnica, Treskavica and Vranica, with the slopes of Crvanj also reaching into this region. These mountains are home to many villages that are certainly windows into the past. The most popular is Lukomir near Konjic. If I have piqued your interest, here is the link to a my posts about this village.
The area has many rivers and lakes, including the beautiful Neretva River and the stunning Rakitnica Canyon, as well as Boračko and Jablanica Lakes, which provide an excellent base for many activities and a peaceful time in nature or a quiet walk along the banks of the Neretva River.
While you're there, don't miss the chance to learn about Konjic's history. Interesting historical sites include the Old Bridge, a historic Ottoman structure, and Tito's Bunker, an underground Cold War-era complex that offers a fascinating glimpse into Bosnia's past.
If you want to know more about this small but beautiful city, you can this link who will tell you more about their history, tradition and nature.
Trebinje is also a nice option for a peaceful holiday
When you walk through the Old Town gate, it's like stepping back in time. The heart of the Old Town is intact, with cobbled streets, narrow alleys and stone houses that now house cafes and shops.
When you arrive in Trebinje, you can almost feel the proximity of the Adriatic Sea, with the scents of lavender, figs and rosemary in the air, and what is more calming than that. Trebinje is unique in Bosnia and Herzegovina for its mix of influences. Thanks to its proximity to Dubrovnik, the town exudes Renaissance charm, seamlessly blended with Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and socialist elements.
The people of Trebinje are incredibly hospitable, welcoming guests with tables filled with healthy, natural foods grown in this fertile region. This area is also famous for its excellent wines, with a winemaking history dating back to the Middle Ages.
Many families in Trebinje have been involved in winemaking for generations, and the quality of their wines is proven by the medals they have won at prestigious international exhibitions in Vienna, Paris and London. Wine lovers can join one of the many wine tours to experience and appreciate the quality first hand, and what says more about a holiday in Bosnia away from the crowds than a peaceful tasting at the winery.
For a little disturbance of the peace in early August, there is the “Music & More SummerFest”, an international classical music festival that takes place in the amphitheater on the Crkvina hill and the plateau in front of the Herzegovinian Gračanica.
The concerts take place on a carefully designed plateau around the Church of the Annunciation, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the southernmost city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This picturesque setting is located at the foot of the imposing karst mountain Leotar, in the tranquil valley of the Trebišnjica River.
Here is the link to the websitethat can help you choose activities in this peaceful city and I hope you will decide to visit it.
Practical tips for a peaceful holiday in Bosnia
Here are some additional tips for your holiday in Bosnia away from the crowds:
- Travel off-season: Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) will not only help you avoid crowds, but will also allow you to enjoy the mild weather and vibrant landscapes.
- Stay in local guesthouses: Choose accommodation in family-run guesthouses or boutique hotels. They offer a more personal experience and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Hire a local guide: A local guide can enrich your experience by providing you with insider knowledge and access to hidden places you may not find on your own.
- Enjoy Bosnian cuisine
Bosnian cuisine is a delicious blend of Eastern and Western influences, characterized by the use of fresh ingredients and rich flavors. While you explore the quieter regions, be sure to try some local specialties:
- Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages served with flatbread and onions.
- Burek: A savory dough filled with meat, cheese or spinach.
- Begova Čorba: A traditional Bosnian soup with meat and vegetables.
- Baklava: A sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough, filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup.
Conclusion
As you can see, this is a country of remarkable beauty and cultural richness, meaning your Bosnian holiday away from the crowds offers a perfect escape from the cities of Europe. Whether you're exploring ancient sites, hiking through national parks or enjoying local delicacies, a holiday in Bosnia promises tranquility and authentic experiences.
So pack your bags and discover the untouched charm of my home country away from the crowds.
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