The EU is Funding a New Tourist Attraction: Development of the Sarajevo-Dubrovnik Cycling Trail
The HerzegovinaBike Association and the Outdoor Agency Visit Konjic 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 – the Sarajevo-Dubrovnik Cycling Trail. This “ cycling 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 famous Ćira trail all the way to Dubrovnik, a distance of 140 km. This route provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauties and cultural landmarks of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Through the analysis of tourist movements, 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 HerzegovinaBike.
By creating a newly created route and networking system, recognized by National Geographic, we are bringing our tourist potential closer to foreign tourists from all over the world. It will contribute to the development of the local community and initiatives along the internship, given that the new approach will attract new tourists who will use the services – says Jelle Scherpereel from Visit Konjic.
Project Development Phases
The development of the bicycle path will take place in two phases. The first phase will include: a tour of the route, mapping, recording of video material and photos for promotion; information gathering and familiarization of the local population with the project; the installation of bicycle markings and signs on 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 Bosnia and Herzegovina
In addition to connecting Sarajevo, Mostar and Dubrovnik, this project has wider significance for the development of tourism in BiH. The main route will enable the connection of smaller local trails, opening up additional opportunities for adventure and rural tourism.
In the future, we see the passage of the highway through Bosnia and Herzegovina, which would leave the M17 main road ideal for cycling, and we see this route as key to connecting with the Eurovelo network, which would position Bosnia and Herzegovina as an important outdoor destination on 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 project for local communities – emphasized Aida Nadarević , manager of this project at the 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.
Read more about the cycling trail here. Learn more about Active Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina.