One of the most underestimated destinations in Europe, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of dramatic mountains, turquoise rivers, old villages, waterfalls and serene countryside. Although most people visit Sarajevo and Mostar, the country has numerous other smaller cities where tourists can get to experience the authenticity of the country without the tourists. These Bosnian Hidden Gems are ideal places where one needs to explore the beautiful scenery, local culture, an interesting history and a serene environment. To the travelers who might be planning a trip to Bosnia Tour Packages, a couple of these places may be added to the trip that they are visiting to make it more memorable and personal.
The Hidden Gems in Bosnia have something to offer every kind of a traveler, whether it is in remote mountain villages, quiet towns beside rivers or in spectacular nature parks. Hiking, photography, history, wildlife, or just avoiding the hustle and bustle of the tourist sites, any of these destinations are a great chance to enjoy Bosnia in a new light. The following are 15 destinations that you can add to your itinerary of Bosnia.
Here are the Hidden Gems in Bosnia
1. Lukomir
Lukomir is a traditional mountain village that lies in the Bjelašnica Mountains, which are high in the mountains, with spectacular valleys and a quiet atmosphere. It provides the visitors with an idea of the life in rural Bosnia as it was. The village offers beautiful mountain scenery and good photography potential on hiking around the village.
2. Blagaj
Blagaj is most renowned because of its historic Blagaj Tekke, which is located next to the beautiful Buna River and under a dramatic cliff. The crystal clear river and greenery around make a relaxing environment. Go in the morning when it is not so busy so that you get to experience its serenity.
3. Prokoško Lake
The Prokoško Lake is hidden in the Vranica Mountains, with jagged mountains and the old-fashioned shepherd huts. It is remote and thus suitable to those who want to be in touch with nature and tranquility. The trip to the lake is an adventure by itself and the mountainous landscape is beautiful on the way.
4. Una National Park
The national park of Una is a magnificent place with turquoise rivers, waterfalls, forests, and animals. Štrbački Buk is one of the most impressive places in the national park. Visitors will have hiking, rafting, photography or just relaxing by the river without the congested tourist centers.
5. Jajce
Jajce is a mixture of history and nature. It has a spectacular waterfall, which is found in the very centre of the historic town. It is complemented by medieval castles and old streets and adjacent Pliva Lakes. It is a great substitute to the more crowded destinations in Bosnia.
6. Šipovo
The town of Šipovo is a serene rural place with forests, rivers and natural springs. The small waterfalls, streams, and wooden bridges that make up Janjske Otoke are especially beautiful. It is ideal to tourists who wish to put their feet up and have a taste of the countryside in Bosnia.
7. Vrelo Bosne
Vrelo Bosne is a park of lush green around the origin of the Bosna River which is located near Sarajevo. It has wooden bridges, streams, waterfalls, and shaded paths, which allow one to escape the city in a relaxing way. It is appropriate to families, couples and nature lovers.
8. Počitelj
Počitelj is an old stone village that is constructed on a hillside facing the Neretva River. The uniqueness of its atmosphere is formed by its narrow streets, old buildings, mosque and fortress. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful views of Herzegovinian landscape as they climb towards the fortress.
9. Kravica Waterfalls
Kravica Waterfalls are also one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Herzegovina. There are several waterfalls which pour down limestone rocks into transparent pools with vegetation around them. Summer is best to play in the water, whereas early morning or late afternoon is less busy.
10. Hutovo Blato
Hutovo Blato Nature Park is a serene wetland habitat and a great place of interest to a birdwatcher and wildlife lovers. The wetlands allow visitors to view the waterways, bird watch and take rides on boats. It is a welcome break to the mountainous landscape of Bosnia.
11. Stolac
The city of Stolac is an interesting historical town with the Bregava River, the buildings of the Ottoman period, ancient ruins, and an amazing fortress. Close to Daorson, it is possible to get acquainted with the history of the area. Stolac is also suitable to those who like to travel and experience culture without crowds.
12. Trebinje
Trebinje is a laid-back Mediterranean town, featuring stone architecture, plantations, cafes and the gorgeous Trebišnjica River. Tourists have the option of sightseeing the old town and trying local cuisine, visiting local monasteries, and experiencing the relaxed lifestyle of the southern Herzegovina.
13. Blidinje Nature Park
The Blidinje Nature Park is encircled with stunning mountains and vast green fields. The park has a centerpiece, Blidinje Lake which is very good in hiking, cycling, photography and relaxation. The scenery varies drastically in summer and winter thus being appealing all year round.
14. Foča and the Drina River
Foča is a great place to go in search of adventure. The area is surrounded by the Drina River, Tara Canyon, forests and spectacular mountains. The most popular thing to do is rafting, and hikers and photographers have the opportunity to see the magnificent wilderness around the town.
15. Visoko
Visoko is a place of international fame due to the controversial assertions about the hills of the place, however, there are also real historical attractions in the town. Its medieval castle, and the surrounding scenery as well as its cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination to inquisitive tourists. It can also be easily added to a trip to Sarajevo.
Why Visit Bosnia's Lesser-Known Places?
The greatest opportunity in traveling to Hidden Gems in Bosnia is being able to see the country outside the well known places. Silent country towns, serene rivers, local cuisine, old town streets, and welcoming local people bring a more authentic travel experience.
Diversified itinerary can also be easily created in these destinations. Cultural tourism and hiking, rafting, wildlife, photography and countryside recreational retreats can be combined by travelers. You can explore the nature of Bosnia at your own pace, as opposed to crossing renowned locations off a checklist.
Conclusion
The Bosnia and Herzegovina has much more to attract than Sarajevo and Mostar. Starting with Lukomir and Prokoško Lake all the way to Una National Park, Stolac, Trebinje, and Blidinje, these locations reflect the amazing mixture of nature, history and culture of the country. Visiting Hidden Gems in Bosnia has a possibility to change a simple Balkan vacation into an unforgettable adventure with a lot of peaceful experiences and surprises.
To the tourists who are intending to visit these magnificent places, Arooha Tours could design a tour itinerary based on these marvelous destinations. The most memorable moments are usually located far off the most popular tourist destinations where you can learn about the local culture, scenic beauty and the hospitability of the local people which make Bosnia so special.
