Ultimate Trebinje Bosnia And Herzegovina Travel Guide – Explore Hidden Gems

Trebinje Bosnia And Herzegovina Travel Guide

Trebinje Bosnia and Herzegovina
Trebinje Bosnia and Herzegovina

Everybody has heard of Dubrovnik, the stunning but impossibly overcrowded Croatian city on the Adriatic Sea, and only a few people will know about Mostar, the most important cultural city in the Herzegovina region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, just across the border.

Indeed the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stari Most (Old Bridge) in Mostar is probably the most iconic historical landmark in the entire country.

Mention the town of Trebinje however and it’s safe to assume that most people will draw a blank, I included until I decided to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina during my travels through the Balkans.

Trebinje, the southernmost town in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is only 28km from Dubrovnik but tourist-wise it is a world apart from its more famous neighbor and an excellent place to break the journey if traveling between Dubrovnik and Mostar.

Trebinje Old Town

Trebinje Old Town
Trebinje Old Town

The Old Town of Trebinje emerged in the 18th century and soon developed into a trading & crafts center named Kastel.

There is barely a town in Herzegovina that was not erected along a freshwater river. Trebinje is no exception: its old town lines the banks of the Trebisnjica River that flows through the heart of the city.

The river and the city have always been known for the enormous old mills treading the Trebisnjica. Although they are not fully functional today, they stay a symbol of Herzegovina’s not-so-distant past when everything was directly connected to the power of nature.

In Trebinje, that power of nature was bigger before the Grancarevo dam curtailed the river, some 15 km north-east of Trebinje. This dam was bound to swallow the Arslanagic Bridge. To save this beautiful example of an Ottoman stone bridge building, came, stone by stone, from a village seven kilometers up the river, and rebuilt in downtown Trebinje.

Hercegovačka Gračanica Church

Hercegovačka Gračanica Church Trebinje
Hercegovačka Gračanica Church Trebinje

At the southernmost end of Bosnia, in the area governed principally by Bosnian Serbs, is this beautiful Orthodox church. It’s at the top of a hill overlooking the town of Trebinje and offers lovely views. It’s surrounded by a neat courtyard, with tables where visitors can enjoy the view, and lush green trees and lawns. The church itself has a traditional eastern Orthodox style, including a number of domes as well as gold crosses on the roof.

It was built in the late 19th century and has a rich interior, featuring extravagant gold chandeliers, ornate paintings, and carved columns. The church is open to visitors and is a lovely spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon looking out over the town below.

The Trebinje Wine Region: A Hidden Gem in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Trebinje Wine Region
Trebinje Wine Region

Nestled in the heart of Herzegovina, the Trebinje Wine Region remains one of the best-kept secrets in the world of wine. Unlike its more famous counterparts like Napa Valley in California, Bordeaux in France, or Tuscany in Italy, this region boasts a unique charm that sets it apart: its very name, “Herz-Ego-Vina,” translates to “land of wine.”

A Rich Wine Making History

The picturesque town, situated along the banks of the Trebišnjica River, serves as the epicenter of wine production in this region. Here, vineyards stretch across rolling hills, their roots deeply intertwined with centuries of history. Among the notable wineries, the Tvrdoš Monastery stands out. Its wine cellars, some dating back to the 15th century, have become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the ancient stone chambers and taste wines crafted from indigenous grape varieties.

Unique Grape Varieties

Bosnian wines draw from a diverse range of grape varieties. Blatina, Žilavka, Trnjak, and Vranac are among the stars of the local vineyards. Blatina, a red grape, produces robust and earthy wines, while Žilavka, a white grape, yields crisp and refreshing flavors. Trnjak and Vranac contribute to the region’s rich viticultural heritage, each offering distinct characteristics.

Wine Tasting Adventures

A visit to the Vukoje Cellars provides an immersive experience. With friendly guides, you can explore the entire winemaking process, from vine to bottle. The highlight? A wine tasting on the terrace, overlooking the charming town of Trebinje.

Another must-see is the Cellars of the Tvrdos Monastery. Here, you’ll learn how wine production has supported the monastery financially, contributing to its restoration efforts. The combination of history, spirituality, and excellent wine makes this spot truly memorable.

Hidden Beauty

As you wind your way through the region, the drive itself becomes part of the adventure. The road meanders alongside rivers and through mountains, revealing breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or seeking a romantic escape, the Trebinje Wine Region promises an unforgettable experience.

 

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