Wine and culture in equal measure in Herzegovina

In association with: Herzegovina Wine Route

Uncover the hidden side of the Mediterranean on the spectacular Herzegovina Wine Route

Interspersed with the imposing mountains and winding rivers that define Bosnia and Herzegovina’s landscape, the Herzegovina Wine Route showcases the region’s greatest vistas as well as its exceptional wines.

This Balkan destination enjoys the Mediterranean’s favourable climate and has nurtured a rich winemaking tradition for centuries. Its four distinct grape varietals, žilavka, blatina, trnjak and vranac, each offer a unique flavour.

Across six towns, visitors can explore 29 wineries along the Herzegovina Wine Route, from family-owned vineyards to premium estates. Across the region, winemakers welcome guests and serve their wine with generous hospitality.

Uncork its history and adventure

Winemaking traditions on the Herzegovina Wine Route are rooted in history. Travellers can delve into captivating stories of the region’s people and explore locations rich in history and culture.

In Mostar, a city steeped in more than 500 years of history, visitors can wander over the Old Bridge, a Unesco World Heritage Site, that crosses the Neretva River. Down in the small village of Međugorje, marvel at the Queen of Peace statues that attract millions of Catholic pilgrims every year.

For adventurous clients seeking more than just wine, recommend Trebinje, the southernmost city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. As well as indulging in wine tastings on barges along the river, visitors can embark on guided cycling tours, take a sunrise mountain hike, or enjoy canoeing on Lake Lastva.

There are a range of authentic wine experiences to enjoy alongside the day’s activities, from visiting a family winery where the cellar is dug seven metres underground into the rock to stopping at larger wineries with vast 100-hectare vineyards.

For a touch of mystery and charm, explore the hidden wine cellars beneath centuries-old monasteries. The warm, welcoming locals make every experience even more memorable as they share their winemaking passion and expertise..

Discover the wine towns

There’s plenty to explore in the six main wine towns along the Herzegovina Wine Route. Mostar exudes history and has been named the European Wine City Dionisio for 2024, while Stolac offers a unique blend of ancient ruins and local wineries.

Further south, Trebinje is renowned for its slow food initiatives, while the towns of Čapljina and Ljubuški are defined by their rivers and waterfalls.

Finally, in Čitluk, there’s no shortage of family-owned vineyards for wine enthusiasts to sample some of the region’s finest wines and enjoy some local hospitality.

The perfect itinerary

For a relaxing day, recommend a day of wine tasting and water activities. Start with a canoe trip down the Trebižat River or opt for a boat trip along the Buna River. Charming wineries and restaurants line the banks, making the perfect pitstops for sampling local wines and tasty cuisine.

In the afternoon, explore one of the enchanting old towns or visit a historical monastery, before ending the day in style with a visit to one of the many picturesque wine cellars.

For more inspiration and information, visit hwr.ba

PICTURES: Globe Guide Media, Vadim Lavra