Bosnia Herzegovina - Crossroads of the East and West

10 days Guided Groups, Fixed Departures

One of the world's most exciting emerging destinations! A land full of surprises and, for those that can alter their perceptions, a land of unimaginable contrasts - miles of untouched forest, 2000 metre mountain peaks, sweeping vistas to the coast, highland villages harbouring centuries - old cultural heritage and traditions - a genuine East meets West melting pot.

Home to some of Europe's last remnants of primeval forest, this intriguing corner of the Alps is welcoming tourists back to discover the hundreds of hiking trails inherited from the former Yugoslavia. A natural border between Mediterranean and Alpine climate, the diverse landscapes are replete with abundant flora and fauna including one of Europe's largest bear and wolf population. Who would have thought it home to so many stunning emerald rivers, dramatic canyons and beautiful waterfalls? From historic Sarajevo and Mostar , peaceful for over a decade, to ancient mountain villages in the Bjelasnica hinterland, from the magnificent mountains of Sutjeska National Park, to the untrodden paths of Herzegovina's 'Himalayas', you will experience this fascinating country whilst also contributing to the communities and the eco-systems they are so reliant on.

Discover more surprises on an eco-tour that takes you to the country's highest mountain and village, Olympic slopes, mediaeval forests, ancient royal hunting trails, Ottoman monasteries - even into Montenegro! Nowhere else in Europe can one find such a magical mix of ancient civilisations, where Europe meets the Orient - at peace.

Day 1. Sarajevo

Fly to the restored capital - a mix of elegant piazzas and boulevards leading to a maze of alleyways, mosques and markets imbued with the aroma of Turkish coffee. Visit Princip's Bridge where World War I began on a guided tour .

Days 2 and 3. Bjelasnica and Lukomir Village

A fantastic introduction to highland life. Trek along a ridge Co that leads you to the stunning canyon of Rakitnica, the Si least explored canyon in Europe into which the beautiful W cascades of Studeni Potok tumble 400 metres. Arrive at Lukomir (1496 metres), the country's highest inhabited Ac village. Mediaeval tombstones and villagers in traditional dress (with the occasional turban and fez) greet you. The De following day's hike takes you from the 1984 Winter Olympic ski slopes to the summit of Hranisava (1953 metres). Views of the entire central Dinaric Alps fill a 360 degree vista.

Days 4 and 5. Sutjeska National Park - and Montenegro!

Transfer to one of the country's oldest National Parks where you walk through forest and open mountainous errain to the tranquil lakes of Donje and Gornje Bare. Ascend to the summit of Planinica (1772 metres) with its sheer 1200 metre drop, offering one of the best views of he Sutjeska valley, Perucica primeval forest and Volujak's sheer limestone walls. The next day embark on the most challenging walk of the trip - mighty Maglic, at 2386 metres the highest peak in the country. The route takes you across the border into Montenegro (passpor ts equired just in case!) to the serene Trnovacko Lake. The surrounding peaks reflect in its emerald waters and you can choose to either relax here or tackle the final steep slopes to the top.

Day 6. Mostar

Visit the Herzegovinan town of Blagaj with its Ottoman monastery, built for the Dervish cults. Continue to Mostar , justifiably famed for its picturesque architecture and location on the Neretva River with its emblematic bridge, so symbolic of the war , now proudly rebuilt.

Days 7 and 8. Herzegovina's 'Himalayas'

A magical day hiking in pristine wilderness along one of King Karadjordzevic's old hunting trails. Climb through beech forest star ting from the untouched valley of Diva Grabovica. Lunch is taken overlooking the largest rock face on the Balkan Peninsula at over 1,000 metres - fit for a king indeed. Your last day's hiking is spent on Velez Mountain in an area known for its chamois, wild boar and bear .

Days 9 and 10. Neretva and Homeward

The Neretva is an emerald "gem" flowing through Herzegovina to the Adriatic. Expect deep canyon walls and a wild environment on your final trek. There is also the option to raft. Return to Sarajevo. Fly back to the UK the following day.