Biking through B&H

If you’re considering exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina on two wheels, Biking through B&H offers a well-rounded experience combining spectacular scenery, culture, and friendly guides. Priced at about $1,070 per person, this eight-day journey takes you through some of the country’s most captivating landscapes, from the Olympic mountains Bjelanica and Igman to the historic streets of Sarajevo and Mostar.

What we love about this tour is its balance of adventure and culture—you’ll cycle through untouched nature, visit significant landmarks, and enjoy local cuisine, all with the support of knowledgeable guides. Two specific highlights stand out: the ride up to Lukomir, the highest inhabited village in Bosnia, and the visit to the Kravice Waterfalls, which truly showcase Bosnia’s natural beauty.

A potential consideration is the physical demand; with rides lasting several hours daily, moderate fitness is recommended. Also, as the tour involves cycling on varied terrains, you’ll want to be comfortable with mountain biking.

This experience is perfect for active travelers who love cycling, want an authentic look at Bosnian culture, and enjoy scenic outdoor adventures. If you’re eager to see Bosnia beyond its well-trodden tourist paths while engaging in an active, guided journey, this is a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Authentic culture with visits to Sarajevo, Mostar, and historic towns
• Active outdoor adventure on mountain bikes across diverse terrains
• Beautiful landscapes including Olympic mountains, Borako Lake, and Kravice Waterfalls
• All-inclusive package with guides, equipment, accommodations, and meals
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and safety
• Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness looking for a multi-day biking experience

An In-Depth Look at the Biking through B&H Tour

Starting Point: Sarajevo’s Old Town Charm

Our adventure kicks off in Sarajevo, a city where East meets West. The initial day’s highlight is exploring the Old Town (Bascarsija), which dates back to the 15th Century. Guides take us through iconic sites like Gazi Husref-bey’s Mosque, the Sebilj Fountain, City Hall, and Latin Bridge, giving us a lively introduction to Sarajevo’s diverse history.

We loved the way guides like Alek shared stories that brought the city’s complex past to life—imagine standing on the Latin Bridge, where the spark for WWI ignited, or wandering the bustling streets of Bascarsija filled with shops and cafes. It’s a perfect way to set the cultural tone before heading into the countryside.

Day 2: Up to Lukomir, the Highest Village

A highlight of the trip is the mountain biking trip to Lukomir, the last Bosnian village at 1495 meters, making it the highest inhabited place in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ride starts on a mix of macadam and asphalt paths on Igman mountain, offering stunning views of the Olympic mountains Igman and Bjelanica.

The approximately 25 km ride takes about 3 hours, depending on your pace. The guides supply all essential gear—mountain bikes, helmets, backpacks, water bottles—so you only need to bring comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for mountain biking.

What makes this stop special? Lukomir’s traditional architecture and untouched nature. The quiet, pristine air and panoramic vistas are unforgettable. Guides like Amir share stories about the village’s history and culture, enriching the experience. Afterward, there’s time for a tour of Lukomir, a chance to soak in the serenity and learn about rural Bosnian life.

Day 3: Borako Lake and Herzegovina’s Mountain-Eye

The following day involves biking toward Borako Lake, a natural gem called the “mountain-eye of Herzegovina.” The ride begins on a macadam road over Studeni creek to the village of Umoljani. Then, the path becomes asphalt as we climb Visoica mountain to reach the lake, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Lunch is organized at a restaurant beside the Neretva River, providing a welcome break and a chance to enjoy local cuisine. The entire tour lasts around 7 hours—a full day of cycling, sightseeing, and fresh mountain air.

What we appreciated was how well the guides managed the pace, keeping everyone comfortable. The natural beauty of Borako Lake, with its clear waters and mountain backdrop, truly makes it worth the effort.

Day 4: Ramsko Lake and the Blidinje Nature Park

This day combines cycling and cultural stops. Starting in Sovii village, the ride takes us on a macadam trail along the Hutovo Blato bird reserve. The scenery includes old iro-railway bridges, tunnels, and a spectacular view of the park.

Next, we visit the Franciscan monastery at Ramsko Lake, which offers insight into the region’s spiritual history. After a guided tour of the monastery, we head to Blidinje Nature Park for lunch at Hajduke Vrleti and some free time to absorb the peaceful surroundings.

Dinner and overnight stay are organized in Konjic, a small town with its own historical charm, making this stop a blend of natural beauty and local history.

Day 5: The Iconic Mostar and the Old Bridge

Perhaps the most famous stop, Mostar, is reachable via a scenic cycling route along the Neretva River. The ride from Borako Lake to Mostar is around 5 hours, with a break for lunch in Ruite. The highlight is arriving at Mostar’s Old Bridge (a UNESCO World Heritage site), where history and architecture blend seamlessly.

The guides, like Mirsad, make sure you understand the bridge’s significance as a symbol of reconciliation. The city itself is lively, with bustling markets, traditional Kujundiluk streets, and Ottoman-era buildings.

Day 6: Kravice Waterfalls and Pojitelj

A day dedicated to natural wonders. After breakfast, we bike to the Kravice Waterfalls, a stunning cascade where the river plunges into a pool—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Lunch nearby gives everyone a chance to relax before exploring the medieval Ottoman town of Pojitelj.

Later, we visit Blagaj, a small town famed for its Buna River spring, with a historic monastery built into the cliffside. The mix of natural beauty and historical sites makes this segment particularly memorable.

Day 7: Hutovo Blato Bird Reserve and Vjetrenica Cave

The final active day takes us to Hutovo Blato, a bird reserve teeming with wildlife. The macadam trail along the reserve offers views of wetlands, old iro-railway bridges, and a chance to spot local bird species.

A visit to Vjetrenica Cave, one of Europe’s most significant caves, wraps up the tour’s adventurous spirit. After lunch, we head back to Mostar for a farewell dinner, reflecting on a week of cycling, culture, and natural beauty.

Logistics and Value

This tour is a comprehensive package: it includes guides, equipment, accommodations, and all meals—quite a deal considering the variety of experiences packed into eight days. The group size is limited to 20, ensuring everyone gets attention and feels part of a close-knit adventure.

The price of $1,070.63 reflects the value of guided expertise, transportation, and diverse activities. While the cost might seem high, remember this covers seven nights in 3- and 4-star hotels, plus meals and all biking equipment.

Who Is This Tour For?

This tour suits active travelers with moderate fitness levels who want to see Bosnia beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s perfect for those comfortable with multi-hour cycling on various terrains. If you’re someone who loves cultural stories, scenic landscapes, and outdoor adventures, you’ll find this trip engaging and rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy combining physical activity with cultural exploration will find this tour delightful. It’s ideal for those looking for an authentic experience in Bosnia, driven by knowledgeable guides who share stories that bring the country’s history alive. The scenic routes through mountain villages and along rivers make this more than just a bike trip; it’s a journey into Bosnia’s soul.

While it’s demanding at times, the well-organized itinerary and supportive guides make it accessible to anyone with a moderate fitness level. If you want to see Bosnia’s natural beauty from a different perspective and have a memorable adventure with a friendly group, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While some cycling experience helps, it’s designed for travelers with moderate fitness. The daily rides vary in length from around 3 to 7 hours, so comfort with mountain biking on varied terrain is recommended.

What type of bikes are provided?
The tour supplies mountain bikes equipped for off-road and asphalt riding, along with helmets, backpacks, and water bottles.

Are meals included?
Yes, the price covers meals with drinks each day—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—except for drinks outside of meals and souvenirs.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable clothing, shoes suitable for biking, and extra layers for changing weather. The guides provide all biking gear, but personal items for comfort are advised.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Butmir Airport in Sarajevo is offered, making the start of your trip smooth.

What about accommodations?
You’ll stay in 3- and 4-star hotels throughout the tour, with overnight stays included in each destination.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Later cancellations are subject to partial refunds or none, depending on timing.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and while the tour is suitable for active teens, it’s not specifically designed for young children or those with serious medical conditions.

In sum, this Biking through B&H tour offers a rare chance to see Bosnia’s natural and cultural treasures while cycling through some of its most breathtaking landscapes. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-paced itinerary, it’s a memorable way to connect with the country’s authentic spirit—perfect for active, curious travelers eager for a multi-day adventure.