Nestled in the heart of Europe, this small town is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls, a hidden treasure worth the detour.
Are you looking for a destination combining natural beauty and cultural heritage that will surprise your loved ones and which is not too crowded, far from the crowds that gather in Europe’s most popular cities? Here’s a great travel idea that’s off the beaten track. This small town, still untouched by mass tourism, has just been named one of the most beautiful places in the world by TimeOut magazine.
Its jewel is undoubtedly its spectacular Pliva waterfall, 22 meters high. Formed at the confluence of the Pliva and Vrbas rivers, it offers a breathtaking spectacle at the foot of the medieval city, with a fortress dominating the entire valley in the background. A flower-filled pedestrian bridge spans the river, offering a breathtaking view of this miracle of nature.
But the wonders of our mystery destination don’t stop there. A few kilometers from the center is Lake Pliva and its iconic water mills placed on stilts. These traditional wooden constructions, once used to grind grain, seem frozen in time. Their reflections on the peaceful waters of the lake make it a paradise for professional and amateur photographers alike.
Did you guess? This town seen as a little gem is called Jajce, in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Beyond its natural assets, Jajce surprises with the richness of its heritage. The city is a stunning mix of Ottoman architecture, Christian churches, monasteries and mysterious underground catacombs. The 14th century castle, perched on the heights, offers a breathtaking panorama of the mountainous surroundings. You will dominate the city, for a small fee of a few euros to make the visit.
To not miss any of the treasures of Jajce, plan at least two days there. The ideal is to visit it from May to September, when the weather is good. You can then swim in the river above the falls to cool off. From the capital Sarajevo, it takes around 2.5 hours by road. Far from the crowds, Jajce is a gem just waiting to be discovered. Bosnia is counting on this little treasure as well as the old Mostar bridge and its numerous hiking routes to develop its tourism, particularly among Europeans.