Discover one of the most iconic cycling routes in the Balkans on an unforgettable journey along the Ćiro Trail, perfectly combined with the rich wine heritage of Herzegovina. Starting in Trebinje, the tour follows the historic narrow-gauge railway built during the Austro-Hungarian era, today transformed into a scenic and mostly traffic-free cycling route.
Cycling from Trebinje toward Zavala, you ride through peaceful local villages and past the Grad Sunca complex, entering the original Ćiro railway line. Along the way, you pass abandoned settlements, former railway stations, reliving the rhythm of life once shaped by the legendary steam locomotive. Dramatic karst landscapes and panoramic views over Popovo Polje create a strong sense of history and tranquility.
In Zavala, a refreshment stop at Restaurant Zavala is recommended, followed by an optional visit to the impressive Vjetrenica Cave, one of the richest caves in the world in terms of underground biodiversity.
The return route leads across the vast plains of Popovo Polje, followed by a scenic ride along the main road toward Tvrdos Monastery, where centuries of spiritual tradition meet winemaking excellence. A tasting of monastery wines made from local varieties such as Žilavka and Blatina concludes the experience before cycling back to Trebinje and your hotel.
This tour blends cycling, history, nature, and wine into one authentic Herzegovinian experience, offering a deep connection to the landscapes and heritage shaped by the legendary Ćiro railway.
Rated 2 out of 4 our Intermediate tours are designed for sporty people who are looking to enjoy some more challenging rides. E-bikes are available on all of our tours, making the tour accessible to mixed groups and anyone who wants extra support on the tougher segments.
The tour begins in Trebinje, where participants pick up their bikes at a pre-arranged location. Our team will ensure each bike is perfectly adjusted to your preferences, from seat height to gear setup, so you’re ready for a comfortable and smooth ride.
After a short briefing on the route and safety tips, you’ll start cycling adventure begins.
Optional: Hotel pick-up and drop-off are available upon request — please inform us in advance.
Start your ride in Trebinje, cycling through quiet local villages and past the Grad Sunca complex before joining the historic Ćiro Trail. Follow the original narrow-gauge railway line toward Zavala, riding through abandoned settlements, former railway stations, tunnels, and viaducts that bring the story of the legendary Ćiro railway to life.
Arrive in Zavala, where a short break is recommended, with the option to visit Restaurant Zavala and explore the spectacular Vjetrenica Cave, one of the richest caves in the world in terms of underground biodiversity.
Continue cycling across the vast plains of Popovo Polje, enjoying wide-open landscapes and authentic Herzegovinian scenery. The route then follows the main road back toward Trebinje, with a final stop at Tvrdos Monastery to experience Herzegovina’s wine tradition through a tasting of local wines.
Finish the tour back in Trebinje, completing a full-day cycling experience that blends railway heritage, karst landscapes, and wine culture.
☕︎ EAT
Option to reserve lunch at a local restaurant in Zavala
☾ SLEEP
NO sleep today 🙂
⎌ CYCLE
Trebinje → Zavala → Trebinje, 88km, 520m
Upon arrival in Zavala, you reach the midpoint of the tour. This is the perfect place to take a break and refresh at Restaurant Zavala, where we recommend tasting local specialties and traditional Herzegovinian cuisine before continuing the ride.
NOTE: Lunch must be requested in advance if you wish ERO Travel to arrange a reservation. However, we recommend choosing and paying for your meal directly at the restaurant for easier organization and flexibility.
Cycle back toward Trebinje along the Herzegovinian wine road, passing through the heart of the region’s most important vineyards. The route leads to Tvrdos Monastery, where centuries of spiritual tradition meet winemaking excellence.
Visit the monastery cellar and enjoy a wine tasting, learning how the monks produce their renowned wines from local grape varieties.
NOTE: Wine tasting must be booked in advance. We recommend paying on site for easier organization.
The tour concludes in Trebinje, with a visit to the charming Old Town, a favorite afternoon gathering place for locals. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, stroll through historic streets, and choose from numerous restaurants and cafés offering excellent local cuisine and a unique gastronomic experience — the perfect way to end your cycling journey through Herzegovina.
Share your experiences, provide feedback on Google or TripAdvisor, and depart with unforgettable memories of adventure, culture, and scenic cycling in Herzegovina.
ONE-DAY SELF-GUIDED CYCLING EXPERIENCE
We’ll welcome you at the start of your ride, provide a full briefing on the route, and ensure you have everything needed for an enjoyable cycling experience.
Each participant receives a Navigation Pack with GPX routes, route descriptions, and suggested stops along the way.
Before you set off, our skilled mechanics at Capriolo Bike Shop will prepare your bike and adjust it to your preferences, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
Our team is available for support throughout the day in case of any unexpected situations, ensuring you can ride safely and confidently.
We recommend participants have basic knowledge of puncture repair and minor bike adjustments to make the most of the ride.
We have a flexible cancelation policy – please take a look at our cancellation policy at the time of booking. If you have any doubts please reach out and we’re happy to help.
We rate our tours from Level 1 (Leisure) to Level 4 (Epic). Each tour contains a description of the level, expected daily ride time, distance and elevation. If you have any doubts we’re more that happy to speak to you on the phone and help to find you the perfect trip!
We recommend that you hire a bike for your tour and will work with you after you book to help you to choose the best size and model for your ride style. If you prefer to bring your bike, it’s no problem. Please be aware that on some of our epic trips we charge a supplement to transport your bike box to our finishing location. If you have any doubts, please ask!
Insurance is not included in our tour packages. We highly recommend contracting travel insurance at the time of reservation with a company from where you are from.
Health insurance which covers you for illness or injury whilst cycling in your chosen destination is mandatory, we’ll ask you for details of your insurance provider before you travel.
