Places to see – Holiday in Bosnia

Bosnia and Herzegovina is really fascinating.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is really fascinating. With many places to see such as Banja Luka, Mostar, Sarajevo, Visegrad, Mostar and many more.

For the “sporty types” Bosnia almost seems tailor made for almost every type of Extreme Sports from White Water Rafting, Canyoning, Parachuting, Paragliding, Climbing, Hiking, Mountain Biking etc.

There are also two fantastic national parks to discover as well, Kozara and Sutjetska. Some starter ideas, to complement a city visit might be:

River Vrbas

Most of the towns in Bosnia and Herzegovina are situated on river banks.
Ever since the start of mankind water has meant life. The river of Vrbas is one of the biggest rivers in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is has a very strong current and you have to be very careful when swiming in it. The river runs through the country’s second largest city of Banja Luka, which is not too far from where you will be staying.

River Una

The river of Una is one of the most beautiful rivers in whole Bosnia and Herzegovina. It flows through the western part of the country. The water pretty cold, even in the summer time, so again be careful when swimming. It is advised to aclimatise your body before entering the cold water.

Blagaj

Blagaj is only a short drive from the town of Mostar and should not be missed. The main attraction is a dervish house (tekija), the equivalent of a monastery for an order of muslim mystics, donated by the local sultan after the Ottoman takeover of Bosnia in the 15th century. The tekija is built right into the hillside from which the river Buna originates. Blagaj also has a medieval fortress with great views; although there is no real path, a scramble up the hill is very worthwhile (follow sign “stari grad”).

Medjurgorje

In 1981 a couple of teenagers claimed an encounter with the Virgin Mary, in the hills near the town of Medjurgorje in Herzegovia. Since then, Medjurgorje has become a pilgrimage site for Catholic Christians of every nation, even though the apparition is not officially acknowledged by the Roman Catholic Church. In the local church of St. James masses are held in many international languages, and regardless if you believe or not, it is a moving sight to see so many people sunk in prayer, convinced that they are somehow nearer to God in this place. Medjurgorje itself is very commercialised with souvenir shops the size of supermarkets selling religious memorabilia for every taste & budget.

Hutovo Blato Nature Reserve

Hutovo is a nature reserve with a lake and swampland that is well-known as a breeding ground and habitat for birds. The most bird-rich season is said to be January and February when migrating birds stop here. The only way to explore Hutovo are boat trips. There seems to be no fixed schedule for how often the boats depart. Its a rather first come, first serve-concept. Single trips are priced at 30 €, but the group price is 10€. The boat trip is very tranquil and offers great scenic views especially if you sit in the front of the boat.