The Balkans are a dozen countries in the south-east of Europe, located on the peninsula of the same name. They are united not only by their geographical location, but also by an abundance of natural attractions and cool locations. You can see about 100 national parks, more than 18,000 different lakes and water bodies (in Albania there are only 15, in Romania – more than 3,500), more than 10,000 caves and hundreds of mountains, dozens of landmarks and resorts…
To make sure you don’t get lost in such diversity, we have made a selection of 12 picturesque natural places of the Balkan coastline – from Bosnia and Herzegovina to Montenegro.
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Bosnia and Herzegovina
Kravica Waterfall
Kravica Waterfall is an amazing cascade of water 25 metres high and about 120 metres wide, located in the heart of the country. The place is literally drowned in greenery. Thousands of travellers and locals come here to swim in the cool refreshing water and enjoy the unity with nature. The infrastructure is excellent, so picnicking on the shore, kayaking or dining in a café or restaurant is easy.
Mount Maglić
Mount Maglić is a real treasure peak with stunning panoramic views. At 2,386 metres above sea level, it is the highest point in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its beauty, history and outdoor activities (mountain biking in summer and skiing or snowboarding in winter) attract tourists from all over the world.
The journey to the summit begins with a breathtaking drive through the beautiful Bosnian landscape: verdant forests, mountain streams and pastoral villages create an inexpressible atmosphere. Maglić Mountain is also a historical symbol, as there are ruins of a medieval fort that played an important role in Bosnian history.
Rama Lake
Rama (Bosnian: Ramsko jezero) is an extraordinary semicircular lake with many bays and islands, surrounded by lush greenery. It was artificially created 55 years ago as a result of the construction of a dam on the Rama River.
It has crystal clear turquoise water reflecting the sky, panoramic views of the mountains, sandy beaches and the proudly standing island of Schchit with its Franciscan monastery, where people come to find tranquillity and inner harmony. There is also the opportunity to go hiking, cycling, water sports, swimming and fishing – any leisure activity to enjoy the Bosnian scenic nature.
Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most stunning natural reserves in the world, with emerald oases, cascades of waterfalls, virgin forests, rich flora and fauna, and fabulous wooden bridges and trails. The water in the lakes is so clear that you can see their bottoms even at great depths and watch the colour change from sapphire to emerald.
Deer, bears, wolves and many species of birds are also found here, so as you walk through the park you will be immersed in a natural world that has remained unchanged for thousands of years. This is probably the best place in Croatia that is impossible not to visit.
Korcula island
Korcula island is a true gem of the Adriatic, which combines cultural wealth, wine-making traditions and beautiful natural landscapes. Most of the island is covered in greenery and has dozens of charming bays with beaches, and main town is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved on the Balkan coastline.
Come here to swim in the picturesque bays, stroll from sunset to sunrise through narrow streets with Venetian architecture and marble tiles, watch performances in the spirit of the medieval past and taste the best Croatian wines.
The Blue Cave
The Blue Cave on Vis island is another gem of the Adriatic, far away from mainland Croatia. The cave on the island of Vis is famous for its blue-coloured walls (created by the reflection of sunlight from the cave floor and sea water) and bizarre shapes, which make it accessible only by a small boat with oars. Once inside, you can dive or snorkel and explore the richness of the underwater flora and fauna of this part of the planet.
Montenegro
Durmitor National Park
Durmitor National Park – UNESCO World Heritage Centre is where majestic mountains, picturesque lakes and ancient forests come together to create the inexpressible natural beauty of the Balkans. Driving along the mountain road, you will enjoy the high peaks, picturesque villages and streams.
In the national park itself you will find the Durmitor range, including the highest peak Meded, which attracts climbers and trekkers from all over the world, the clear Lake Bled, the 38 metre high Skakavica waterfall and wild fauna like bears, wolves also rare birds. This location will definitely become an integral part of your Balkan trip and will reveal Montenegro in all its colours.
Boko Kotor Bay
In Montenegro, everything is close: just drive half an hour or even a quarter of an hour and you will find different landscapes, different cuisine and people of a different anthropological type. Perhaps the most amazing and hospitable part of the country is the Kotor Bay or Boka in local parlance, where the Balkan flavour is closely linked to Byzantine tradition and the heritage of the Republic of Venice.
Boko Kotor Bay is Montenegro’s calling card. Its nature is reminiscent of fjords, and its bays and islands offer stunning scenery and the opportunity to explore every corner of the area: Sveti Djordje Island, Gospa od Shkrpela Island, the luxurious yacht harbour of Porto Montenegro, the town of Herceg Novi, the fortress island of Mamulaji and, of course, the Kotor old town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the spirit of medieval Italy.
Sveti Stefan Island
Sveti Stefan Island is a living open-air museum and one of the most famous and luxurious islands in Montenegro. First inhabited in the 14th century and home to monks for centuries, the island is now a tourist attraction and is open to all to stroll around. Stone streets along the fortress walls, stylish luxury hotels, national seafood specialities, honeymooners in wedding costumes and beautiful sunsets await you on this unique island all year round.
Albania
Dhermi Village
A village on the coast of Dermi – spread at the foot of the Aksoret Alps. This place is famous for its beauty, tranquillity and secluded beaches with snow-white sand and the purest water of the Adriatic Sea.
Here you can do a variety of water activities, explore the architecture of the surrounding towns or go hiking or cycling to the national parks of Tomorri and Luroi. Either option will be good for you and will give you endorphins for further travelling in the Balkans.
Xamil resort
Xamil is one of the most picturesque resorts on the coast of Albania, where nature, culture and history come together in one place. It still has the same white sandy beaches with crystal clear water as many places on the Adriatic coast, rich architectural heritage and many islands and coves where it is easy to have a great time.
Porto Palermo Castle
Porto Palermo (Albanian: Kalaja e Porto Palermos) is a castle in southern Albania, a few kilometers south of Himarë along the Albanian Riviera. Huffington Post ranked Porto Palermo first among 15 Undiscovered European Destinations for 2020.
Built in ancient times, it served as a defence fortress, was one of the first Albanian monasteries and a place to watch the sea routes. Today, Porto Palermo is drowned in legends and mysteries, as well as greenery and all kinds of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. So a combo of historical, natural and cultural programme is guaranteed in any month of the year.
