Biking In Bosnia
8 days - from $1530
A pioneering ride through the remote mountain regions of Bosnia & Herzegovina - the ultimate off road adventure
Although mountain biking is relatively new here, the spectacular scenery and extensive network of mountain trails provide the perfect destination for an adventurous route. The natural beauty of this region is truly stunning, with ancient forests, rugged peaks, hidden waterfalls and numerous alpine lakes where we can stop en route. Challenging rides take us deep into the mountains along fast gravel tracks and exciting natural singletrack, passing small isolated settlements where the way of life has remained unchanged for centuries. Off the bikes there is time to explore Sarajevo, Bosnia's capital city that hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, and the charming Mostar with its famous reconstructed bridge. Both cities are fascinating, with an ancient mix of European and Near Eastern culture, as well as their more recent wartime history. This will be an unforgettable week of riding.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Start Sarajevo. 2 Todays route takes us through Bjelasnica Olympic Mountain Park to Lukomir, Bosnia & Herzegovina's highest village (1496m). Possible ascent of Bjelasnica (2067m), the highest peak in the area. 3 Fantastic 'three mountain tour' taking in Bjelasnica, Visocica and Prenj. The ride ends with nearly 1500m of fast descent to Boracko Lake. 4 A spectacular ride through the region known by the locals as the 'Herzegovinan Himalayas'. We take in Mt. Velez before descening to Potoci. Short transfer to Mostar for some evening sightseeing. 5 Transfer to Tjentiste; a challenging climb through Perucica primeval forest takes us to Trnovacko Lake in Montenegro. Scenery today is beautiful and remote and the ride culminates with an exciting descent. 6 Full day ride along rocky trails through the grasslands of Zelengora Mountain in Sutjeska National Park. 7 We start with a long climb to the Grasshopper Waterfall before enjoying an exhilarating 1300m descent along the old highland route right into the old town of Sarajevo. Free afternoon for sightseeing. 8 End Sarajevo.
Mode of travel: Average daily distance: 50km (31 miles) No. of days cycling: 6 Vehicle support: 100% Terrain and route: 75% off road. Great riding mostly on a mix of vehicle width gravel and singletracks; some days feature longer tarmac sections. Rides are mostly undulating with some long climbs (up to 1200m) and fast descents often in remote terrain. Off road experience and a good level of fitness is essential.
Group size: Normally min. 6, max. 16, plus cycling leaders and driver
Accommodation: 6 nights hotels, 1 night mountain cabin.
Food: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $140.00
Trip Reference: MVH
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Notes: Local Bike Hire: GT Avalanche or Specialized Rockhopper mountain bikes with front suspension GBP70, paid on booking
Trip Reference: MVH