The HerzegovinaBike Association and the Visit Konjic Outdoor Agency are launching a project to develop a 350-kilometer-long bicycle path that will connect Sarajevo, Mostar and Dubrovnik, three key destinations in the region. This “bicycle route” will serve as a main route to which smaller routes will subsequently be connected, enabling the connection of numerous places and destinations throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina and expanding the country’s outdoor offerings.
In the long term, they hope to network cycling routes throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in the long term they have the ambition for Bosnia and Herzegovina to become part of the Eurovelo network, which would give BiH a significant place on the European cycling map. The intervention is being implemented within the framework of the broader project “EU for Local Communities” funded by the European Union, and implemented by the Center for the Promotion of Civil Society (CPCD) with the partner organization HELP.
Route through the most beautiful parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina
The trail will pass through Bjelašnica, Lukomir, Visočica, Glavatičevo, Boračko Lake and Rujište, connecting Sarajevo with Mostar. From Mostar it will follow the already known Cira's trail all the way to Dubrovnik in a length of 140 km. This route offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural sights of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Through an analysis of tourist trends, we realized that this section is one of the most sought-after among cycling and outdoor sports enthusiasts. It is important to emphasize that it passes through spectacular mountain landscapes and rural areas, allowing tourists to experience nature and local culture authentically."," said Toni Zorić, president of the HerzegovinaBike Association..
“By creating a new route and a network system, recognized by National Geographic, we are bringing our tourism potential closer to foreign tourists from all over the world. It will contribute to the development of local communities and initiatives along the way, as the new approach will attract new tourists who will use the services,” speaks Jelle Scherpereel from Visit Konjic.
Project development phases
The development of the cycle path will take place in two phases. The first phase plans to tour the route, map it, record promotional videos and photos, collect information and familiarize the local population with the project, as well as install bicycle signs and signs along the route. The second phase includes the creation of a visualized website, the organization of marketing activities and promotional events, and regular reporting on the progress of the project.
A new dimension of tourism in BiH
In addition to connecting Sarajevo, Mostar and Dubrovnik, this project has a wider significance for the development of tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Main route it will enable the joining of smaller local trails, opening up additional opportunities for adventure and rural tourism. "In the future, we see a highway passing through Bosnia and Herzegovina, which would leave the M17 highway ideal for cycling, and we see this route as key for connecting to the Eurovelo network, which would position Bosnia and Herzegovina as an important outdoor destination at the European level.", Zorić added.
“This cycling trail is not only an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, but also a bridge that connects local communities and contributes to their sustainable development. We are happy that the importance of this intervention, which will enrich the experiences of all cycling enthusiasts, has been recognized by the European Union within the framework of the EU Local Communities Project.", pointed out Aida Nadarević, manager of this project at CPCD.
Safety and sustainability
Although cyclists already use the M17 highway, with the development of the highway in Bosnia and Herzegovina, that road will become safer and more attractive for cyclists. The project also encourages sustainable development, promoting cycling as an environmentally friendly form of tourism and transport.
This ambitious project not only connects the region but also contributes to strengthening the tourism infrastructure, attracting foreign tourists and extending their stay in BiH. The Sarajevo-Dubrovnik bicycle path will certainly become one of the most important attractions for cycling and nature lovers.
