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Franciscana “Herzegovina route”

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8 Days
Availability : From April till November

Franciscana – A Cycling Route Connecting History, Spirituality, and Nature

Welcome to the Franciscana Route, a unique cultural and spiritual journey that not only takes you through the most significant Franciscan monasteries, museums, and shrines of Herzegovina but also through the most beautiful destinations this region has to offer. This route is not just a journey through history but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local traditions, culture, customs, and the unparalleled natural beauty of Herzegovina.

A Rich History and Spiritual Heritage

The Franciscans have been present in this region for over seven centuries, preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of the people of Herzegovina. Alongside pastoral care, they were teachers, writers, initiators of scientific works, and guardians of historical artifacts. On this route, you will visit places where some of the first historical records of Herzegovina were written, explore rare collections of books and artworks, and experience the enduring spirit of bygone eras.

Cycling Through Untouched Nature

The Franciscana Route combines spirituality and adventure, offering an unforgettable cycling experience through breathtaking landscapes. Starting in Mostar, a city rich in history and symbolized by its iconic Old Bridge, the route leads through picturesque villages, vineyards, fields, and historic sites, such as monasteries in Ljubuški, Posušje, Masna Luka – Blidinje, Rama, Tomislavgrad, and Livno.

Along the way, you’ll pass through Međugorje, one of the most renowned spiritual destinations in the region, as well as stunning locations like the Kravica Waterfalls, Blidinje Nature Park, and Ramsko Lake. Each section of the route provides a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual inspiration.

More Than a Cycling Journey

The Franciscana Route is not just a cycling trail – it’s an experience that awakens all your senses. Enjoy local gastronomy, from authentic Herzegovinian specialties to tasting homemade wines at family-run wineries. At every stop, you’ll meet warm and welcoming locals who will proudly share stories about their homeland.

Why Choose Us?

At ERO Travel, we specialize in organizing pilgrim and cycling tours across Herzegovina. Our team of experts takes care of every detail – from accommodation and meals to luggage transport, guides, and technical support during your ride. Based in Mostar, we’re available 24/7 to meet all your needs during your journey.

Let’s Create Your Unforgettable Adventure!

We invite you to experience Herzegovina in a way that connects past and present, spirituality and adventure. The Franciscana Route awaits you – book your tour today and become part of this unique story!

Tour Details

Franciscana Route – A Unique Blend of History, Spirituality, and Nature

Discover the Franciscana Route, an eight-day cycling journey through Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the rich heritage of the Franciscan order comes alive. Present in the region for over seven centuries, Franciscans have been pioneers in science, education, and cultural preservation. This unique route takes you to the most significant Franciscan monasteries, museums, and their surrounding cultural and historical treasures.

But this is not just a journey into the past. The Franciscana Route offers a chance to immerse yourself in local traditions, vibrant culture, and culinary delights, all set against the backdrop of Herzegovina’s stunning landscapes. Along the way, you’ll explore iconic destinations such as Mostar, Međugorje, Blidinje Nature Park, Kravica Waterfalls, and Rama Lake, blending spirituality with the beauty of nature.

Designed with a recreational tempo and moderate difficulty (hilly level 3), this adventure is suitable for cyclists who appreciate a balanced pace. Throughout the trip, our dedicated team of experts will ensure your experience is seamless, providing support, guidance, and everything you need to create an unforgettable journey.

Join us and let the Franciscana Route inspire your soul and awaken your senses!

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Duration

8 Days

Terrain

Asphalt

Fitness Level

Moderate – 3

Included

  • Transfers This option includes transporting your belongings from hotel to hotel every day separately and a support of a van throughout the entire cycling journey (this option is recommended for larger groups).
  • LunchLocal cuisine or Picnic
  • Single room supplementOn request
  • Transportation to and from the airport

Highlights

Franciscan monasteries and museums

We take you to unique cultural and spiritual journey

Beautifull Deastinations

Visit the most beautiful destinations in Herzegovina

Local Delicacies and vines

Franciscans are known for their top-quality wines
Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Welcome to Mostar – A Blend of History, Culture, and Breathtaking Views

Upon arrival on airport, we transfer to Mostar, the city of stone, history, and captivating charm. Mostar, built by the Ottomans along the emerald-green Neretva River, is famous for its Stari Most (Old Bridge), an architectural marvel that gracefully connects the two banks of the city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site symbolizes the city’s unity and resilience and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Herzegovina.

After settling into the Dompes Hotel, a modern retreat crafted by the Franciscan brothers and located near the Franciscan Monastery, your journey into Mostar begins. A visit to the Franciscan church and monastery of St. Peter and Paul and its impressive church tower, one of the tallest in Herzegovina, promises panoramic views of the city. Wander through the old town, where cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and the historic Old Bridge narrate tales of Ottoman heritage and local craftsmanship.

End the day savoring the authentic flavors of Herzegovina at a traditional restaurant, indulging in local cuisine that reflects the region’s culinary traditions.

Accommodation: Dompes Rooms***
Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at this thoughtfully designed hotel, offering modern amenities and warm hospitality.

Mostar is more than just a destination – it’s a vibrant fusion of culture, history, and natural beauty waiting to be discovered.

Day 2Cycling: Mostar - Međugorje - Ljubuški

Day 2: Cycling from Mostar to Ljubuški – A Journey Through History and Natural Beauty

DISTANCE: 53km;  ELEVATION: 615m

After breakfast and check-out, the adventure begins as we cycle along the historic Ćiro Trail, a repurposed railway line that winds its way along the scenic Neretva River. Passing through quaint villages, we reach Šurmanci, where a gentle uphill stretch leads us to Međugorje, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Europe.

Međugorje gained global recognition in 1981 when six local children reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary, who shared messages of peace and love. Since then, it has become a spiritual haven, drawing over a million visitors annually. Here, we’ll visit the iconic church and take time to explore this serene and inspiring location.

Our journey continues toward the breathtaking Kravice Waterfalls, a natural gem of Herzegovina. Take a break to enjoy the lush surroundings and the cascading waters, offering the perfect backdrop for a picnic and some relaxation.

The final leg of the day brings us to Ljubuški, where we’ll visit the Franciscan Monastery of St. Anthony of Padua in Humac, home to the oldest museum in Bosnia and Herzegovina, established in 1884. The museum features remarkable artifacts spanning from the Paleolithic era to the present day, including the Humac Stone, the oldest known inscription in Croatian, blending Glagolitic and Old Croatian Cyrillic script.

After a day filled with history, spirituality, and natural beauty, unwind with a delicious dinner and a restful night at the local hotel, that offers modern comfort and warm hospitality.

Highlights: Ćiro Trail, Međugorje Shrine, Kravice Waterfalls, Franciscan Monastery in Humac

Day 3Cycling: Ljubuški - Peć Mlini - Grude

Day 3: Cycling from Ljubuški to Grude – A Scenic Journey Along the Trebižat River

DISTANCE: 53km;  ELEVATION: 611m

The day begins with a cycling thru city of Ljubuški. From there, we set off on an unforgettable cycling adventure along the picturesque Trebižat River, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and captivating scenery.

Our first stop is the breathtaking Koćuša Waterfall, located in the village of Veljaci. This natural gem, with a height of 5 meters and a length of 50 meters, is surrounded by traditional mills and stone pillars that add to its charm. Here, we’ll take a moment to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Herzegovina’s lush landscapes.

Continuing the ride, we arrive at the Adventure Park Peć Mlini, an oasis of nature and history. This area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and is rich in Roman, medieval, and modern heritage. Peć Mlini is also the source of the Trebižat River, a unique natural wonder that sinks and re-emerges nine times along its course, earning it the nickname “Phoenix River.” We’ll enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant before resuming our journey.

As we cycle through the charming village of Drinovci and past the serene Krenica Lake, the route leads us to Grude, where the day ends with dinner and an overnight stay at local hotel. We have chosen for you cozy accommodation that offers a blend of comfort and local hospitality, providing the perfect place to unwind after a day filled with natural beauty and cultural exploration.

Highlights: Humac Monastery, Trebižat River, Koćuša Waterfall, Adventure Park Peć Mlini, Krenica Lake

Day 4Cycling: Grude - Posušje - Blidinje Nature Park

Day 4: From Grude to Blidinje Nature Park – A Journey to the Mountain Oasis

DISTANCE: 60km;  ELEVATION: 1.650m

The fourth day of our adventure takes us on a challenging but rewarding ride from the charming town of Grude to the breathtaking Blidinje Nature Park. Known for its Mediterranean climate and natural gems like Lake Krenica and the Tihaljina River, Grude serves as our starting point. Before leaving, we pass by the local church, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of this quaint municipality.

Cycling along scenic roads, we head toward Posušje, a town where history meets tradition. Here, we’ll take a short break to enjoy a picnic and prepare for the most demanding part of the day – the ascent to Blidinje. The climb, though challenging, is manageable at your own pace and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

As we enter Blidinje Nature Park, the beauty of this 358 km² natural reserve unfolds. Nestled between the Vran and Čvrsnica mountains, Blidinje is a sanctuary of pristine landscapes, endemic flora, and fresh mountain air. Our journey takes us past the serene Blidinje Lake, a tranquil body of water that perfectly mirrors the majestic peaks around it.

We continue to Masna Luka, a hidden gem at the foot of Čvrsnica. This area is home to the Franciscan Monastery and Church of Saint Elias, a harmonious blend of spiritual heritage and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush pine and fir forests, Masna Luka offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature. Visitors can explore the Franciscan gallery, showcasing valuable local artwork, or enjoy fresh mountain spring water, including the famous Jasle Spring.

Our day concludes with dinner at a local restaurant, featuring authentic Herzegovinian cuisine, and an overnight stay at the Masna Luka Monastery, offering a tranquil end to a day filled with breathtaking landscapes and enriching experiences.

Highlights: Grude, Posušje, Blidinje Lake, Masna Luka, Franciscan Monastery

Day 5Cycling: Blidinje - Jablanica - Rama Lake

Day 5: Cycling to the Stunning Rama Lake – A Journey Through Nature and Heritage

DISTANCE: 76km;  ELEVATION: 980m

Our fifth day begins amidst the serene landscapes of Blidinje Nature Park and takes us on a captivating journey to the enchanting Rama Lake, a world-renowned destination celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Starting from Blidinje, the first leg of our route is a thrilling 30-kilometer descent to the town of Jablanica, where we’ll cycle alongside the picturesque Jablanica Lake. The shimmering waters and surrounding mountain vistas make this segment a highlight of the day. Here, we’ll pause for a picnic, allowing us to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

After our break, we continue the journey with a gradual climb to the municipality of Prozor-Rama, home to the mesmerizing Rama Lake. Created in 1968 as a reservoir on the Rama River, this 12-kilometer-long lake is surrounded by the majestic mountain ranges of Raduša, Makljen, Ljubuša, and Vran. Its deep blue waters, dotted with islands and peninsulas, create an awe-inspiring landscape. The most famous of these is the Šćit Peninsula, which, with its unique shape reminiscent of a guitar, is a symbol of the lake’s charm.

Our visit includes the Franciscan Monastery and Museum on Šćit, a cultural and spiritual haven steeped in history. The museum, housed in the old monastery building dating back to 1857, is a rare example of architecture from the Turkish period in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its exhibits offer a rich glimpse into the traditions of the Rama region, from ethnographic displays of crafts and housing culture to a friar’s cell and a fascinating textile workshop. The museum also features a collection of flora and fauna native to the area, offering a deeper appreciation for the natural environment.

To end the day, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local specialties. Overnight accommodation at the Rama-Šćit Monastery provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on the beauty and history encountered throughout the day.

Highlights: Jablanica Lake, Rama Lake, Šćit Peninsula, Franciscan Monastery and Museum

Day 6Cycling: Rama - Tomislavgrad

Day 6: Cycling to Tomislavgrad – A Journey Through History and Nature

DISTANCE: 40km;  ELEVATION: 802m

On the sixth day of our adventure, we embark on a scenic ride from Rama to the historical town of Tomislavgrad, named after the first King of Croatia, Tomislav. This stage offers a relatively gentle ride, covering a distance of 40 kilometers with a moderate climb, making it a perfect day for enjoying the beauty of the landscape.

We start the day by cycling along the serene Rama Lake, where the peaceful waters reflect the surrounding mountains. The route gradually takes us uphill to a hilltop viewpoint, offering a stunning panoramic view of the lake below. After soaking in the view, we’ll stop for a picnic, allowing time to rest and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

From here, we continue our journey toward Tomislavgrad, a town with a rich history dating back to the early Christian period. In Tomislavgrad, we will visit the Franciscan Monastery and the Museum of Tomislavgrad, which houses an impressive collection of archaeological, sacral, ethnological, and ethnographic artifacts. This museum, established in 1988, was designed by the Franciscans to showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage. It features five permanent collections, including items from local history, religious artifacts, and even African relics, all curated with great care by Fr. Ante Pranjić and his team.

After exploring the museum and the town’s historic sites, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Our night will be spent at local hotel, a comfortable resting place to unwind after a fulfilling day.

Highlights: Rama Lake, Hilltop Viewpoint, Tomislavgrad, Franciscan Monastery and Museum

Day 7Cycling: Tomislavgrad - Buško Lake - Livno

Day 7: Cycling to Livno – A Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty

DISTANCE: 66km;  ELEVATION: 501m

On the seventh day of our cycling adventure, we depart from Tomislavgrad and set out on a route that will take us through lush landscapes and picturesque villages towards the charming town of Livno. This stage covers 66 kilometers with a gentle climb followed by a descent towards the scenic Buško Lake, one of the largest lakes in Europe.

Our journey begins with a slight ascent as we head towards the lake. Once we reach the shores of Buško Lake, we cycle along its calm waters, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and the beauty of the natural environment. Buško Lake, at an altitude of 700 meters, is not only a popular spot for bird watching and fishing but also holds significant historical value. With its rich past, the lake has been home to many archaeological sites, remnants of the Illyrian and Roman eras, making it a fascinating place to explore.

As we continue cycling along the lake, we make our way to Eco Village Grabovica, a beautifully landscaped village located on the banks of Buško Lake. Here, we will take a well-deserved break and enjoy a delicious lunch while being immersed in the tranquility of the surrounding nature. We’ll also have the chance to explore the village, meet the locals, and tour a traditional farm to learn about the local lifestyle and meet the animals that call this place home.

After our break, we continue cycling through the countryside, passing by several quaint villages, until we reach Livno, a town rich in history and culture. In Livno, we will visit the Franciscan Monastery and Museum, a place that holds an impressive collection of archaeological, ethnographic, artistic, and numismatic artifacts. The museum, officially founded in 1995, is housed in a 19th-century building that was once a church and school. The museum’s collections offer a glimpse into the region’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day. A highlight of the museum is the gallery dedicated to the works of Gabriel Jurkić, a renowned Bosnian-Herzegovinian painter.

After exploring the museum and learning about the rich cultural heritage of the region, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant before retiring to our accommodation at local hotel in Livno for a restful night.

Highlights: Buško Lake, Eco Village Grabovica, Livno, Franciscan Monastery and Museum

Day 8Return trip to Home

Day 8: Farewell to an Unforgettable Adventure

As our cycling journey comes to an end, we reflect on the unforgettable experiences we’ve shared, the stunning landscapes we’ve explored, and the historic sites that have left a lasting impression. Today, we bid farewell to this remarkable adventure.

After enjoying our final moments together, we transfer to the airport, carrying with us not just beautiful photographs but a treasure trove of memories. The laughter, the camaraderie, and the stories we’ve exchanged along the way will stay with us long after we’ve returned home.

On behalf of the entire ERO Travel team, we thank you for joining us on this extraordinary journey and wish you safe travels as you head home. Until next time!

Time to say goodbyeLeave us review!

We hope you had a memorable experience cycling with us. We would appreciate it if you could leave a review on Google or TripAdvisor, as your feedback is invaluable.

Warm regards from the ERO Travel team!

⚠️ ➡️ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

  • The itinerary is subject to change in terms of accommodation, lunch, picnics, locations we visit  👉 Contact us and together we will make an offer that best suits your requirements.
  • Are you a vegetarian and want a special kind of food? No problem. We will contact accommodation facilities and restaurants to make meals that suit your requirements.
  • You want your peace and a single room in the accommodation facilities. Not a problem!
  • Important: During the trip, all our employees are at your service through assistance and suggestions, all in order to give you the best possible vacation.

In case of any ambiguities or the need for changes, please do not hesitate to contact us – info@ero-travel.com

Map

Photos
CHOOSE YOUR BEST OPTION

GUIDED TOURS What is included?

We recommend guided cycling tours to anyone seeking complete relaxation, with nothing to focus on but the joy of cycling. Our guides will handle everything else—navigation, fascinating local insights, and technical support. Guided tours are also ideal for meeting fellow cycling enthusiasts from around the world and forming lifelong friendships.

This tour is tailored for cyclists comfortable with consecutive days of riding and capable of managing the specified average daily distance and elevation. E-bike rentals are available to assist with climbs, though they require more handling skills due to their increased weight. Participants should be able to cycle independently from the start to the endpoint each day. While this tour is less demanding than some of our other programs, it is not suitable for non-cyclists, infrequent riders, those lacking confidence in their biking skills, or those without experience riding in traffic when necessary. Please be sure to review the age restriction information.

Rates are valid per person, for group toures, based on double occupancy on pre-scheduled departures. For individual departures feel free to contact us for the offer.

SELF-GUIDED TOURSWhat is included?

If you’re considering a self-guided cycling tour, there are several factors to ensure it’s the right choice for you. Our self-guided tours are best suited for individuals with experience in self-guided travel and proficiency with GPS navigation. A basic understanding of bike maintenance, including fixing flat tires and making minor adjustments, is essential.

Participants should be able to navigate and orient themselves using the provided information independently. E-bikes can assist with climbs but require more handling skills due to their increased weight and challenging terrain.

If this description doesn’t match your experience or preferences, a guided cycling tour might be a more enjoyable option. Be sure to check the age restrictions for the tour.

The cost of a self-guided bike tour varies based on the group size, tour dates, and booking availability. Please contact us for a detailed quote. See below for starting prices per person based on double occupancy.

TAILOR-MADEWould you like to customize this tour?

Would you like to customize your bike tour? If you’re concerned about your physical readiness or wish to choose a different starting or ending point, or even take a day off before, after, or during the tour, just let us know. Email us at info@ero-travel.com to discuss your options.

Reviews and comments from our guests

  • Een aan te raden reis als je van fietsen houdt. Mooie streek, Ciro Trail door een mooi landschap.

    Trui Van Maele
  • Perfect! We rented two mountainbikes at very short notice. The bikes were in excellent condition and well taken care of, not expensive and with flexible pickup/dropoff times. The owner was extremely friendly and helpful.
    Biking the Ciro trail to the south is really fun, even on hot days. You’re always close to the river for a quick splash.

    Jonas Vincken
  • Ponuka spoločnosti aj prístup jej pracovníkov bol skutočne výnimočný. Služby tohto bike shopu odporúčam. A to jazdím už cca 20 rokov.

    Maroš Smolec
  • I biked the Ciro trail with my mum this summer and (a) the Ciro trail itself is absolutely stunning, well-organised, (practically) all paved and beautiful (b) I would no longer go cycling in August, the temperatures can really be very high if you are unlucky (c) I would definitely book using this company again – they were very helpful, kind and always very organised. Whatever problems we had were solved easily and quickly, the e-bikes we got were in very good shape and everything happened just as planned, we stayed in nice hotels and did not have to organise anything ourselves. It was well worth the money. All in all, it was a great holiday, thank you Toni and Matej!

    Zbynek Loebl
  • We had a day trip for our family at a very reasonable price to Kravice and Blagaj from Mostar. Our guide and driver Matej was very flexible and patient with family needs and our car was very comfortable. It was perfect for us and helped us to really enjoy the sites of Bosnia!

    Will Baldwin-Cantello
  • Great bike ride from Mostar to Blagaj and back with lot’s of cool stops on the way. Matej was an awesome guide for our family of four (two adults with two teenagers).

    Arno van Ras
  • Reserved 2 mountain bikes over the weekend via WhatsApp with Toni from Ero Travel. We picked up bikes, helmets, locks, pump, emergency tire patching kit in Capriolo Sport smoothly. We visited the Millennium Cross on the first day, and part of the suggested Ćiro trail from Mostar to Capljina on the next day. The scenic Ćiro trail is amazing with very little traffic and it is relatively flat, suitable for every one. 2 thumbs up!

    Wilson Ho
  • We had a great time during our cycling vacation. The scenery on the Ciro is enchantingly beautiful, very quiet roads. Toni and Stana were wonderful guides, always concerned about their participants. Not only did they support us technically (cycling) but they also introduced us to the history and culture of their country. Highly recommended

    Anja Dewitte
  • Dank zij Ero Travel – Cycling tours ontdekten wij een schitterende regio in Bosnië-Herzegovina. De oude Ciro-spoorlijn vormde de rode draad voor onze tocht van Mostar naar Dubrovnik. Toni was een uitstekende begeleider, gids en technieker. Ero Travel is uw garantie voor een geslaagde fietsvakantie in Bosnië & Herzegovina.

    Daniel Piceu
  • Wij deden een 5-daagse Ciro Trail onder de deskundige begeleiding van Stana en Toni, super enthousiaste mensen, heel behulpzaam! Hele mooie fietsroutes gedaan, mooie zichten en veel deskundige en geschiedkundige uitleg!
    Echt een aanrader 👌👌👌

    Myriam Van Lancker
  • Thank you Tony for your professional guiding and assistance on the magnific Ciro cycling tour.
    Joseph & Dina

    Dina Braeckman
  • Super Radweg, professioneller Kontakt und gutes Rad!

    Sonja Biwer
  • Definitely the best!

    We went bike and horseriding near Mostar and had a traditional (and delicious) dinner in Goranci. Even though the trip we wished to do wasn’t on the website, it was no problem to organise it custom made for us.

    Originally we planned to do the trip on Monday. Because the weather would get worse on Monday they especially opened the shop on Sunday for us. We got complimentary helmets and GPS navigation. Even when we got a flat tyre they were there to help!

    Never had this experience somewhere else! Thank you so much!!

    Adriaan van der Linden
  • HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! This is the best bike service I have ever come across, and I’ve cycled with a lot of different bike companies.
    Very helpful, I think I asked about 50 questions haha and all of them we answered.
    The price is very good for the service and the bike you get.
    Great bikes, all the kit you need.
    Helped me feel so safe my first time travelling through Herzegovina, I will definitely be back!

    Bronagh Mc Caffrey
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