UNESCO Heritage cycling trail: From Mostar to Dubrovnik

Starting point: Mostar

The departure on this incredible UNESCO cycling adventure begins in Mostar, a city full of history and symbolism. Mostar is home to one of the most famous monuments in the entire region, Old bridge, built in the 16th century during the Ottoman period. The bridge is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of reconciliation and cooperation between cultures. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005, and your drive through Mostar gives you the opportunity to explore its charming streets, wonderful old town, and interesting museums and galleries.

First section: Mostar - Stolac (Necropolis of Radimlja)

Our adventure begins with cycling along the Ćiro Railway, a historic route that leads from Mostar to Čapljina, passing through the stunning landscapes of Herzegovina. This old railway line, now arranged for cyclists, offers a unique ride with wonderful views of the Neretva River, the surrounding mountains and rural parts of Herzegovina. Upon arrival in Čapljina, we depart for the picturesque settlement of Počitelj, one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Herzegovina, known for its oriental architecture and impressive fortress. After a short stay in Počitelj, we continue cycling towards Stolac, where we will visit Necropolis of stećak Radimlje, one of the most important historical locations in the region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Second section: Stolac – Zavalu (Window Cave)

The drive from Stolac to Zavala takes you again through the rural parts of Herzegovina, far from the busy city streets, through the picturesque Popovo polje and the Trebišnjica river. Zavala is home to the Wind Cave, one of the most important speleological locations in the region. Vjetrenica Cave, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its biological and geological diversity. This cave is over 6 kilometers long and is home to a large number of endemic species, including the famous manfish. In Vjetrenica you can explore rich stalactites and stalagmites, underground lakes and fascinating shapes that have been formed over thousands of years. This natural phenomenon leaves visitors breathless.

After visiting the cave, we continue our adventure towards the Adriatic coast, passing through lovely small villages and valleys that abound in natural beauty, following the Ćiro railway and Ćiro's old abandoned stations.

Third section: Zavala - Dubrovnik

The final section takes us towards Dubrovnik, one of the most famous UNESCO cities in the world. Dubrovnik, also known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", is a city of incredible historical importance, located along the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Its massive city walls, impressive fortresses and numerous historical sights such as the Duke's Palace, the Cathedral and the Stradun attract thousands of visitors every day. Dubrovnik was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 due to its exceptionally well-preserved medieval architecture and historical importance.

Biking through Dubrovnik gives you the opportunity to explore this beautiful city in a way that is different from classic tourist visits. The city is surrounded by impressive walls that are among the best preserved in Europe, and driving around them offers spectacular panoramas of the city, the sea and the surrounding islands. Cyclists here have the opportunity to experience Dubrovnik from a completely new perspective.

Reasons why to discover UNESCO heritage by bike

There are many reasons why UNESCO sites are best accessed by bicycle. Cycling provides a steady pace that takes you through historical and natural beauty, while also allowing you the flexibility to stop, enjoy the view and meet the locals. By pedaling at your own pace, you gain a unique and unforgettable perspective of each place, and cycling through nature allows contact with the environment in a way that a car or bus cannot provide.

This tour offers a combination of adventure, culture and nature and allows you to experience the rich heritage of Mostar, Stolac, Zavala and Dubrovnik in a unique way. Through four destinations, riding a bike, you will explore history, nature and culture, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The UNESCO Heritage Cycling Trail provides the perfect balance between physical challenge and cultural enjoyment, allowing you to get up close and personal with the most important heritage sites of South East Europe.

Join us on an unforgettable cycling adventure that takes you through some of the most significant UNESCO monuments and natural beauties of Southeast Europe. This unique route offers the opportunity to explore cultural and natural magic while pedaling through the picturesque regions of Herzegovina and Dalmatia.

Our adventure begins in Mostar, where you will be fascinated by the Stari Most, one of the most recognizable symbols of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This masterfully built bridge with elegant arches offers impressive views of the Neretva River and the old town. Following the historic Ćiro railway, we head towards Čapljina, passing through green valleys and charming landscapes that take your breath away.

After that, our route takes us towards Stolac, where we will visit the Necropolis of Stećak Radimlje. These fascinating archaeological sites, located near the city, are known for their rich collection of stećaks - stone monuments from the 15th and 16th centuries that reflect the medieval history of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

We continue towards Zavala, where the Vjetrenica Cave is located, one of the most important speleological sites in Europe. The cave is known for its incredible biodiversity and fascinating underground formations, providing a unique experience of exploring natural beauty as you pedal towards this natural wonder.

At the end of our route, we arrive in Dubrovnik, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic". A city with a rich history and an impressive old town, which is fully preserved and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Through the narrow streets of Dubrovnik, explore incredible historical sights, including the city walls and numerous palaces and churches that reflect the rich cultural heritage of this wonderful city.

On this cycling route, you will not only enjoy the physical challenge and the beauty of the landscape, but you will have the opportunity to deeply immerse yourself in the cultural and historical values ​​of Herzegovina and Dalmatia. Each segment of this adventure offers its own special charms, allowing you to discover the wealth of UNESCO heritage and natural beauty that surrounds us. Join us on this incredible trip and experience a unique combination of sports, culture and nature.

RECOMMENDATION

Although the trail will mostly lead you through populated areas and you will drive on an asphalt road, it is always advisable to be prepared for all situations, especially on longer rides. Therefore, in addition to being on an asphalt section, don't forget to bring a mini tool and an inner tire patcher. These rules also apply to this section so you can be prepared for possible technical difficulties during the ride.

Also, we advise you to inform your family or friends about your plans before going on a cycling adventure. That way, in case of any unforeseen circumstances, someone will be aware of your movements and where you are.

Don't forget that a helmet is mandatory!