Blagaj is a picturesque village in southern Herzegovina, best known for its dramatic natural setting and rich cultural heritage. Nestled at the base of towering cliffs where the emerald-green Buna River bursts from a massive karst spring, Blagaj feels like a place where nature and history meet in perfect harmony.

            The heart of Blagaj is the Buna Spring - one of the largest and most powerful karst springs in Europe. The water emerges from a 200-meter cliff face after traveling through an extensive underground system of caves and channels within the limestone mountains of the Dinaric Alps. This complex karst network collects water from a wide region, including rainfall and meltwater that seep deep into the porous terrain before reappearing dramatically at Blagaj. The result is a steady, crystal-clear river that maintains a remarkably constant temperature year-round.

            Numerous bird species use the steep cliff above the Buna source as a secure and sheltered breeding site. The rocky ledges, warm southern exposure, and constant availability of fresh water create ideal nesting conditions for many cliff and cavity-nesting birds like Alpine Swift, Western Rock Nuthatch and Blue Rock Thrush.

            Just outside Mostar lies a remarkable site in Herzegovina where an immense colony of Sand Martins, estimated at roughly 5000 breeding pairs has made its home. It is likely among the largest colonies of this species anywhere in Europe. The sky above the nesting grounds is filled with continuous, agile movement as the birds dart and twist in flight. Their sheer abundance draws various raptors to the area.

            Hutovo Blato Marshlands is one of the most remarkable wetlands in the Balkans, located in the southern part of Herzegovina. Formed around the karstic depressions fed by numerous underground springs, it creates a sprawling mosaic of lakes, reed beds, wet meadows, and marsh channels.

            All water from Hutovo Blato Marshlands exits through the Krupa River. The willow trees along the Krupa provide ideal habitat for breeding birds such as Golden Orioles, Wrynecks, Penduline Tits, Bee-eaters, Cuckoos, Woodpeckers etc... The river is approximately 9 kilometres long, with an average depth of about 5 meters.

            The Krupa is considered unique in Europe because it can flow in both directions. Under normal conditions, it flows from its springs, filling the marshlands and then meandering through them before feeding into the Neretva River. However, in winter, when the Neretva’s water level rises significantly, the Krupa is pushed in the opposite direction, causing the river to reverse its flow. Rich in biodiversity, the Krupa supports numerous fish species, including many endemic to the Neretva basin, which inhabit both the river itself and the lakes within the Hutovo Blato Marshlands.

            Počitelj is a fortified stone village on the banks of the Neretva River, admired as one of the most atmospheric historic settlements in Herzegovina. First mentioned in the 15th century, it developed into an important medieval stronghold before flourishing under Ottoman rule. Its strategic hillside position allowed rulers to control the valley below, and over the centuries Počitelj became a vibrant cultural and trading centre connected to major routes linking the Adriatic coast and the interior of the Balkans.

            Within the lower part of the settlement stands the graceful Šišman Ibrahim Pasha Mosque from the 16th century, a masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture framed by cypress trees. Nearby are the hammam, madrasa, and traditional konak houses, all forming a unique architectural ensemble that has been recognized as a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

            The village is best known for its remarkably preserved architecture, which blends medieval and Ottoman elements into a harmonious whole. Narrow, cobbled paths wind between stone houses with slate roofs, rising toward the imposing Kula-the medieval fortress tower that dominates the landscape.

            The Kula in Počitelj is the village’s dominant medieval fortress tower, rising high above the stone houses and the Neretva River. Built in the 15th century, it served as the main defensive stronghold, protecting the settlement from invasions and controlling movement through the valley. Its thick stone walls, narrow openings, and elevated position reflect the strategic importance Počitelj once held. Climbing to the Kula offers sweeping views of the historic village, the river, and the surrounding cliffs.

            During our visit to the medieval village of Počitelj, we will meet a local resident Sevdija who has lived her entire life within the ancient stone walls of the old fortress. She will welcome us into her historic home and serve traditional Bosnian coffee along with her own homemade juices made from pomegranate, mint, sage, rose, and elderflower. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience genuine local hospitality and learn about life in a centuries-old community. Her garden, full of pomegranates, cherry trees, and vegetables, reflects the traditional way of living in Počitelj.

            Nature enhances Počitelj’s timeless charm. The Neretva River flows just below the village, its emerald waters contrasting with the limestone cliffs that surround the settlement. Mediterranean vegetation thrives on the terraces: figs, pomegranates, and grapevines grow beside wild herbs that scent the warm air. The elevated viewpoints offer sweeping panoramas of the river valley.