As a resident of Brussels, the bustling capital city of Belgium, I often find myself seeking out new and exciting destinations to explore during my limited free time. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit southern Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro, two picturesque and culturally rich regions that have long been on my travel bucket list.
Arriving in Dubrovnik, Croatia after a short flight from Brussels, I was immediately struck by the city’s stunning beauty. With its ancient stone walls, vibrant red rooftops, and sparkling blue waters, Dubrovnik is a true gem of the Adriatic Sea. I spent a day exploring the city’s historic Old Town, wandering through its narrow cobblestone streets, and admiring its impressive architecture.
The next day, I set off on a road trip to southern Bosnia & Herzegovina, a region known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. The drive was scenic, with spectacular views of the rugged coastline and turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. As I crossed the border into Bosnia & Herzegovina, I was immediately struck by the contrast in landscape – the rugged mountains and lush greenery creating a stark contrast to the coastal beauty of Dubrovnik.
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro is by staying in Trebinje, a charming town in Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Podgorica, the capital city of Montenegro. These two places serve as perfect bases from which to explore the surrounding regions and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Trebinje is a picturesque town located in the Herzegovina region of Bosnia & Herzegovina, known for its stunning architecture, historic churches, and lush vineyards. As you wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, you’ll be transported back in time to a bygone era. The town’s iconic Arslanagića Bridge, which spans the Trebišnjica River, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to gather and enjoy the scenery.
From Trebinje, you can easily explore other attractions in Bosnia & Herzegovina, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mostar. Its Old Town is a maze of narrow streets lined with traditional Bosnian houses, colorful bazaars, and bustling cafes. I spent hours wandering the streets, sipping on strong Bosnian coffee, and admiring the intricate craftsmanship of the local artisans.
After exploring Mostar, I continued my journey to the stunning Kravice Waterfalls, a natural wonder nestled in the lush greenery of Bosnia & Herzegovina. The cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools are a perfect spot for a refreshing swim or a picnic amidst nature.
One of the highlights of my trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina was visiting the nearby town of Blagaj, home to the stunning Blagaj Tekke – a 600-year-old monastery built into the cliffs overlooking the Buna River. The monastery is a peaceful oasis of calm, with its tranquil courtyard and spectacular views of the river below. I spent a blissful afternoon soaking up the serenity of this hidden gem, marveling at the beauty of the natural surroundings.
After exploring the wonders of southern Bosnia & Herzegovina for a few days, I crossed the border into Montenegro, a country known for its rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and charming medieval towns. My first stop in Montenegro was Kotor, a picturesque coastal town nestled at the foot of imposing mountains. The town’s fortified old town is a maze of narrow alleyways, historic buildings, and quaint squares, making it a delight to explore on foot.
One of the highlights of my visit to Kotor was hiking up to the top of the city walls, which offer breathtaking views of the town, the shimmering waters of the Bay of Kotor, and the surrounding mountains. The hike was a challenging one, with steep inclines and uneven stairs, but the reward of the panoramic views at the top made it all worthwhile.
I chose to stay in an Airbnb in the vibrant city of Podgorica. As the capital of Montenegro, Podgorica is a bustling hub of activity, with a mix of modern architecture and historic landmarks. The city’s lively cafes, restaurants, and bars offer a taste of Montenegrin nightlife, and you can easily spend hours wandering through the streets and taking in the sights.
One of the highlights of Podgorica is the Ribnica River, which winds its way through the city and offers a scenic backdrop for a leisurely stroll. The Millennium Bridge, a modern steel and cable-stayed bridge, crosses the river and provides stunning views of the city skyline. For a cultural experience, visit the Montenegrin National Theatre or explore the ruins of the ancient city of Duklja, which date back to Roman times.
One of the must-see attractions in Podgorica is Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans and a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can take boat trips on the lake, go birdwatching in the surrounding wetlands, or simply relax on the shores and take in the tranquil views.
As my trip to southern Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro came to an end, I found myself feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore these hidden gems of the Balkans. From the ancient streets of Dubrovnik to the tranquil beauty of Blagaj Tekke, from the stunning vistas of Kotor to the idyllic charm of Perast, each stop on my journey offered me a new perspective on the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this diverse region.
As I boarded my flight back to Brussels, I left with a renewed sense of wanderlust and a desire to continue exploring the world around me. The beauty and splendour of southern Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro had left a lasting impression on me, and I knew that I would be back to discover more of this captivating corner of Europe in the future.
