Walk in Blagaj
The old town of Blagaj has recently been included in the route dedicated to the cultural heritage of the country. I recommend visiting here and taking a pleasant, leisurely walk.
The entire town can be walked around in 30-40 minutes. We start from the Dervish monastery, the tekke. If you decide to hike up to the Herceg Stjepan fortress, which towers over the town, the walk will extend by an hour and a half.
You can reach Blagaj by bus number 10, which departs from the central bus station in Mostar.
Dervish Monastery, Tekke (Tekija Dervish)
The tekke was built on a 200-meter cliff in the 16th century for the dervishes and is always open for visits. In the picturesque garden overlooking the source of the Buna River, cold drinks, Turkish tea, and coffee are served. Entrance to the garden is free, but there is a small fee to tour the house.
We walk along the path to Velagić. From here, you can return to the source of the Buna River along its banks.
Herceg Stjepan Fortress
The Herceg Stjepan fortress is located on high cliffs. A winding path leads here, and you will reach the fortress in 45 minutes. Although the path is not marked everywhere, you are unlikely to get lost. Entrance to the fortress is free, and the view from the top is stunning.
Skadar Lake is named after the Albanian city of Shkodër (Skadar). The national park extends to the border with Albania, which owns a third of the lake. The total area of Skadar Lake is 391 km², of which about 220 km² is located in Montenegro. The total area of the national park is 40,000 hectares. The park includes not only the lake but also several marshes and fishing villages located along the shore. The underground karst systems of the Dinaric Alps are considered the largest and most unique limestone formations of their kind. They stretch from Slovenia to Albania. Historical documents indicate that the Skadar Lake area was once a river region. Many rivers and streams flowed here, feeding the Adriatic. At some point, one or more cave systems closed off, resulting in the formation of one of the largest natural lakes in Europe.
Idyllic villages are located along the shores of the lake. The lake is surrounded by picturesque, low mountains. Almost from any point on the lake, magnificent views can be seen. Everyone who comes to Skadar Lake is struck by its remarkable harmony. Here, a wonderful balance has been achieved between man and nature. Approximately in the middle of the western shore of the lake is the "Murica" beach, a favorite resting place for residents of nearby villages, one of which is built right next to the pebble beach. On the tiny islands near the town of Rijeka Crnojevića, you can fish. This trading and fishing town once thrived but has now turned into a secluded settlement where time seems to have stopped. From the towns located along the shores of the lake, you can take a boat trip.
Many itineraries include the monastery on Beška Island in the eastern part of the lake.
Sveti Đorđe (Sveti George) is the Orthodox monastery of St. George (15th century). Owls are often seen near it, and blue pigeons constantly circle above it.
More than 270 species of birds inhabit Skadar Lake. It is not only one of the best bird reserves in Europe but also a paradise for amateur ornithologists. In the reed-covered marshes, curly pelicans (Pelecanus crispus) nest. They have chosen corners near the border with Albania. This is the only place in Europe where these birds are found. Grey herons have formed a colony in the laurel thickets on the island of Omerova Gorica. Black ibises and little cormorants can often be seen on the lake. In the winter months, thousands of migratory birds stop at Skadar Lake, migrating from Europe to Africa.
More than 50 species of fish inhabit the waters of the lake. The most common are carp and trout. Marine inhabitants swim into the lake from the Bojana River. Eels and sea bass have been caught in Skadar Lake.
The shores of the lake are easily accessible. The most popular boat trips start from Virpazar. In this small fishing village, you can even stay. There are decent restaurants here. During the high season (from June to September), boat trips are organized.
Rafting on the Neretva River
The southern slopes of Mount Bjelašnica, located near the town of Konjic, will lead you to the Neretva River. This crystal-clear mountain river is one of the most popular rafting spots in Southeast Europe. The exciting route exceeds 26 km. The rafting trip takes 4-6 hours. The Neretva is classified as grade II, so this trip can be made with children (at least 10 years old). The deep river canyon is very beautiful, making the hike even more exciting.
Walk: by the rivers and lakes of the Hutovo Blato Bird Reserve
The Hutovo Blato Bird Reserve is the largest in Southeast Europe. This part of Herzegovina is rich in natural attractions. In Hutovo Blato, more than 240 species of migratory birds can be found, and several dozen species permanently inhabit these sub-Mediterranean marshes surrounding Lake Deransko. The marsh is separated from the sea by just a few kilometers. In winter, up to 100,000 birds can be found on the lake at the same time. The marsh was formed due to the underground aquifer system of the Krupa River. The rivers flowing from the limestone massif of Oštrvo, which separates Lake Deransko and Lake Svitanjsko, feed the marsh.
The rangers working in the reserve will arrange an exciting boat trip for you through the reed-covered marshes, narrow channels, and crystal-clear lakes. Hutovo Blato is a unique oasis of life in the harsh karst of Western Herzegovina. The lakes are home to trout, carp, black perch, mullet, and eel. Wild ducks, geese, coots, hawks, herons, and pheasants nest in the reeds. Wild boars are often seen here.
The reserve attracts many nature lovers, amateur ornithologists, and families with children.
The International Council for Bird Conservation has included Hutovo Blato in the list of the most important habitats for birds. Ornithology enthusiasts should visit here in January and February, as many migratory birds flock here on their way to Africa during this time.
The nature reserve is located 5 km from the town of Čapljina, near the M17 highway. Open: year-round. Entrance is free. The boat trip lasts about two hours.
Walk: medieval Lukomir
The medieval village of Lukomir is located at an altitude of 1469 m. It is the highest and most isolated settlement in the country. A walk in Lukomir is the most interesting excursion in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You will get acquainted with the cultural and natural heritage of this country and feel the inseparable connection between the people and nature, which is so characteristic of the region. You will see unique stone houses covered with cherry wood shingles.
The walk begins in the picturesque, quiet village of Umoljani, located an hour's drive from Sarajevo, at the beginning of the Rakita River canyon.
The walk will take about four hours. The route length is 7 km.
Rakija River Canyon
After about half an hour of leisurely climbing, near Studeni Polje, you will be presented with a picturesque view of the canyon. From here, the path goes along the western slope of the canyon, through dense coniferous forests and alpine meadows.
Peruč (Peruc). After an hour and a half, we approach the Peruč waterfall, where the water falls from a height of 50 m. This is a great place to stop for lunch or a break.
From here, we begin the ascent to Lukomir. We pass by several old watermills. Here, we are sure to meet local shepherds tending their flocks of sheep.
Lukomir
The view of the Dinaric Alps from Lukomir is breathtaking. Approaching the medieval village, where time seems to have stopped, we see the high peaks of the neighboring mountains, Visočica and Prenj.
The lifestyle of the locals has hardly changed for centuries. Enjoy a coffee, chat with the friendly villagers, and admire the beauty of nature. This four-hour walk will leave a lasting impression on you.
Olympic Ski Resorts!
The main charm of skiing in Sarajevo is the proximity of the mountains to the city center. The XIV Winter Olympics in 1984 were among the largest and most successful games of their time. Although some of the infrastructure was destroyed during the war from 1992 to 1995, much has already been restored. The Olympic slopes of Sarajevo are part of one of the best and most affordable ski centers in Southeast Europe. There are no modern lifts or luxurious alpine villas, but the quality of the slopes and snow is unmatched.
Skiing in these mountains is a true pleasure.
Mount Jahorina is located east of Sarajevo and belongs to Serbia. Bjelašnica and Igman are located south of the city, close to the international airport. In summer, the mountains attract nature enthusiasts. Here you can hike, walk, cycle, and visit mountain villages. Jahorina and Igman are great places for picnics and hiking, although marked trails are few.
Jahorina Ski Center
Jahorina is a mountain range southeast of Sarajevo. Its ideal geographical location guarantees a good snow cover for skiing for four months. The highest peak is Ogorelica (1910 m). The lift can take you up to 1894 m. From here, there is a charming view of Sarajevo. The slopes of Jahorina are covered with tall pines. Trees grow on the slopes up to 1500 m. This is the most popular ski resort in the country, so if you decide to spend your vacation here, take care of everything in advance.
The resorts and infrastructure were virtually unharmed during the war. In recent years, several new hotels have been built here. There are 12 lifts operating on the mountain. The slopes vary from Olympic-class runs to those specifically designed for beginners and children. The high season on Jahorina lasts from mid-December to the end of January. If you decide to come here at the last minute, you can book a hotel in Sarajevo and drive to the mountain. It will take you only 45 minutes. All conditions for relaxation are provided on the mountain — an indoor swimming pool, medical and information centers, ski and equipment rentals, restaurants, and cafes. Instructors who speak English and internet access are at your disposal.
Bjelašnica and Igman Ski Centers
These names are closely associated with the 1984 Winter Olympics. Currently, the Bjelašnica resort is undergoing reconstruction. The first phase of reconstruction was completed in 2006. New apartments, restaurants, and hotels will be built. Igman was more severely affected, and its restoration will take longer. However, it has excellent slopes for beginners and children. Bjelašnica and Igman will soon become a new national park, the planning of which is in the final phase.
Currently, there are three lifts operating on these mountains. The infrastructure of Bjelašnica is much better, and the slopes here are more challenging. The slopes of Igman are simpler. There is a special children's lift leading to low hills where they can practice.
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Bosnia and Herzegovina features two distinct climatic zones. This makes the country ideal for tourism at any time of the year. Herzegovina is located in the Mediterranean zone. There are many sunny days here. From early spring to late autumn, the weather is wonderful. During the peak season (from June to September), the coastline of Herzegovina is not as crowded as in Montenegro, but there is still an increase in the number of tourists.
Summer in Bosnia is typically continental-alpine. Temperatures can exceed 30°C during these days. In the mountainous areas, it becomes cool in the evenings, providing a respite from the daytime heat. The best weather in Bosnia is in late spring and early autumn. Winters in Bosnia are quite cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below zero. The season at the Jahorina and Bjelašnica ski centers begins in late December. Skiing is possible until mid-March, and sometimes even later.
SERBIA
The best season in Serbia is spring. Vast green plains are covered with wildflowers, and street cafes fill with sun-starved Serbs. The days are warm and generally sunny, while the evenings become cool. Summer in Serbia is similar to that in most Central European countries, meaning it is hot. In July and August, it can be humid, which is quite uncomfortable when temperatures exceed 30°C. Mosquitoes are found along the Danube and Sava rivers. From spring to early autumn, sunny weather with cool evenings prevails in the mountainous regions. Since there are no major ski centers in Serbia, tourist life comes to a halt in winter.
MONTENEGRO
Depending on how you want to spend your vacation, you can visit Montenegro at different times of the year. The peak season is July and August. During these months, the coastline is filled with vacationers, and prices increase by 10-25%. In May and June, the weather is good and warm enough for swimming. During these months, there are far fewer people on the beach, and prices are lower. Beaches are freer in September and October. Perhaps autumn is the most pleasant time of year when it is no longer as hot as in July or August.
In the northern part of the country, summer is shorter, and winter is longer. Hiking and rafting enthusiasts come to Montenegro from May to October. This type of recreation is for individuals; there will be no crowds. Skiing and other winter sports are best from December to early March. Good snow is guaranteed during this time. However, the roads in the northern part of the country are quite extreme, and traveling on them can be dangerous.
Children
All countries that were once part of Yugoslavia are great for family vacations. Children are warmly welcomed in restaurants and cafes (with very few exceptions). In most restaurants and cafes, your children will be offered children's portions, but meals specifically prepared for children are very rare.
Children's Puppet Theater in Mostar
Sarajevo Zoo
This zoo has few exotic animals, but it is still a great place for a walk with children. There is a large playground here, as well as an area where you can watch the animals being fed.
Ilidža Thermal Spa
In this resort complex, children can swim and play. The "Vrelo Bosne" park in Ilidža allows for running and playing.
Belgrade Zoo
The zoo is located in the city center, in one of the most beautiful places in Belgrade — in the "Kalemegdan" park.
There are many excellent beaches near Budva that are suitable for children.
Pan Theater
In a small Belgrade theater, many children's performances are held.
Montenegro has no children's theaters or zoos. The main children's entertainment is concentrated on the beach. On several beaches, you can ride water bicycles. In Budva and Ada Bojana, there are other attractions.
Many large hotels have swimming pools, and during the peak season, entertainment for children is organized here.