Circular route around Hutovo Blato

Navigation Pack for Unforgettable Cycling Adventures

Discover the magic of Bosnia and Herzegovina with the HerzegovinaBike Navigation Pack! Each route comes with detailed navigation materials, GPX files, QR codes for the Ride with GPS app, and personalized support. Enjoy a safe and well-planned journey with access to local attractions, accommodation, and restaurants. Support sustainable tourism and enjoy a cycling trip through the beautiful landscapes of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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Our cycling adventure begins in front of Hotel Storia, located in the heart of Čapljina, where those coming from distant locations can safely park their vehicle. If you'd like to explore this small Herzegovinian town further, you can choose to stay overnight at the hotel and enjoy the beauty of Čapljina before embarking on your cycling journey.

Right from the start, the route becomes unforgettable. We cross the old Ćiro bridge, still used by locals to cross the Neretva River, connecting the two sides of the town. This bridge symbolizes the beginning of our ride, which leads us through the town and its narrow streets, where you can feel the authentic rhythm of life of the local people.

After leaving Čapljina, we head towards Struge, riding along a local road that is also part of the popular "Ćiro Trail." We enjoy the beautiful views of the Trebižat River, which flows into the Neretva here, while passing through peaceful villages that allow us to experience the true spirit of Herzegovina.

At the 9th kilometer, we arrive at the Tersana Bridge, the longest bridge on the Ćiro trail, from where we can enjoy a spectacular view of the Neretva River. After that, we continue cycling across two more small local bridges over the Krupa River, whose wooden planks make it easy for cyclists and locals to cross.

The ride takes us further towards Dračevo, where we reach the former main road to Neum. Today, this road is mostly used by locals, making it perfect for cycling. Along the river, we are treated to stunning views of Hutovo Blato and Svitavsko Lake, while cycling through local villages and enjoying the gentle Herzegovinian landscapes.

At the 20th kilometer, in the village of Svitava, we turn off the paved road and switch to gravel paths. The climb towards Svitavsko Lake is not too demanding, but it offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature. Here, you’ll experience the charm of cycling through Herzegovina’s karst terrain, and the ascent reveals even more breathtaking scenery.

After the climb, we arrive in Derani at the 26th kilometer, where we switch back to asphalt and continue towards Boljuni. At the 27th kilometer, we turn right towards the Boljuni stećak necropolis, which is about 5 km away. A visit to Boljuni adds another 10 kilometers to the ride, but every pedal stroke is worth it for the impressive history and surroundings.

On our way back from Boljuni, at the 36th kilometer, we turn towards the villages of Čore and Prebilovci, where we face a challenging gravel section with frequent ascents. This part of the route is ideal for mountain bikes, though gravel bikes may find it more challenging due to the terrain. Still, the climbs are well worth it, as you’ll enjoy views of three small lakes at Hutovo Blato: Deransko Lake, Orah Lake, and Jelim Lake. Here, if you're lucky, you may spot metal bird-watching huts, as Hutovo Blato is home to over 200 bird species.

At the 38th kilometer, after all the climbs, comes the joy – a descent towards the villages of Grlići and Prebilovci. In Prebilovci, you’ll pass one of the most beautiful monasteries in Herzegovina, perfect for a short break and a photo.

At the 40th kilometer, we reach Klepaci, where we find another attraction: the bridge in Klepaci, which spans the Bregava River. The bridge, declared a national monument, was built in the 16th century and is part of Ottoman architecture. It remains one of the most important cultural monuments in the region.

Only three kilometers separate us from the end of the route and the return to Hotel Storia. Here, you can enjoy a well-deserved meal at the Storia restaurant, the perfect place to relax after today’s ride.

Picturesque, challenging, and full of history – this cycling route is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through the best of Herzegovina!

RECOMMENDATION

Although the trail mostly takes us through populated areas and you drive on an asphalt section, the trail also contains macadam sections that are quite demanding. We started our trip with Gravel bikes, so we felt the discomfort of the Herzegovinian karst and the difficulty of this trail, which in some places showed climbs of up to 12%. We believe that with mountain bikes and 29' wheels the ride would be much more pleasant. Of course, we always think that on longer rides it is necessary to bring a mini tool and a tool for patching inner tires, so the rule also applies to this section. We definitely recommend that you inform your family or friends about your cycling plans before going for a ride.
Helmet mandatory!

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE ROUTE: 

• A challenging cycling route about 56 kilometers long will take you through the beautiful landscapes of Herzegovina.
• Unforgettable moments driving over old bridges and macadam paths, with several ups and downs.
• Getting to know the local culture and tradition through Čapljina and neighboring villages.
• Enchanting views of Hutovo blato, Svitava Lake and the rivers Trebižat, Neretva and Krupa.
• Visit to the necropolis of Stećak Boljuni, a rich cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Discovering historical and natural attractions, including monasteries and bridges.
• Enjoying photographing birds by Hutovo lake and observing the rich flora and fauna.
• End of the ride with a refreshing lunch at the Storia restaurant, in the Storia Hotel.