Why Stolac?
Sereen craves simplicity, authenticity, and a very slow routine, which is why Stolac is the perfect small town for her. “Stolac is a very special place to me, I struggle to find the right words and I’m not sure I can explain it. I think Stolac is a feeling, not a place. It’s a magical hidden gem and I wish it remains hidden. But the only way to understand what I’m trying to convey is by experiencing Stolac yourself.”
It’s located in Bosnia and conveniently situated between Mostar and Trebinje. According to Sereen, Stolac offers a unique blend of the peaceful pace of a village and the excitement of bigger towns and cities, as both Mostar and Trebinje are roughly an hour drive from Stolac. “In Mostar, you can experience the past and its mesmerizing architecture and in Trebinje you can shop till you drop!” Do you want you learn more about Trebinje? Click here to read the Ivana’s story.
What immediately caught your attention in Stolac?
“The magical river called Bregava and the beautiful old mills and bridges that cross it caught my eye. This river has so much to offer; from hidden waterfalls in icy caves to beautiful meadows where locals spend a lovely afternoon playing games, singing songs, and dipping in the cold see-through clean water.”
What did you not know about Stolac?
Stolac is home to people with diverse backgrounds where religions co-exist in peace and harmony. Sereen didn’t know how beautiful the people are. “During a typical day, your ears will be soothed by the calls to prayer from the Church and the nearby Mosque.”
Stolac is also where Mak Dizdar, one of the greatest poets of Bosnia and Herzegovina, was born. “I highly recommend visiting Mak House, a museum and gallery center dedicated to his life and work. Also make sure to find the poet’s grandson for a tour of the museum to discover tons of historical facts on Stolac and the country.”
“The magical river and the beautiful old mills and bridges that cross it caught my eye.”
What are your top recommendations?
- Stay at the national monument called Mehmedbasica Kuca. “Yes, you read it correctly, a national monument. This historical residence is now a tourist accommodation. It’s a treasure with amazing views from its cute garden.”
- Sereen says it’s a lovely evening activity to stroll down the old town by the river. “You can stop for a coffee or a meal at one of the cutest cafes or hike up the old fort of Stolac for an amazing sunset.” This fort stands on an elevation above the centre of Stolac and is a defensive structure, one of the largest forts in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Visit the Standing Stones (Radimlja, necropolis of stećak tombstones), a UNESCO World Heritage site near Stolac. Radimlja has 63 decorated tombstones and ranks amongst the most ornamented necropolises in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In addition, it showcases a unique burial tradition. The tombstones are oriented from northwest to southeast, with the head of the deceased pointing northwest and the feet southeast. The intricate carvings on the tombstones reveal the skills of the artisans who crafted the tales of warriors, animals, and religious symbols.
- “Visit Daorson – either by car or by hiking – for another amazing sunset scenic hilltop; and a lot of history.” Daorson was the capital of the Hellenized Illyrian tribe of Daors, who thrived from 300 to 50 BC in the Neretva River valley. The ruins give a glimpse into a fascinating ancient history. For example, the Daorsi adopted the Greek language and alphabet. The most remarkable discovery is a bronze helmet with depictions of Greek deities such as Aphrodite, Nike, Helios, Dionysus, the Muses and Pegasus.
- Do you want to listen to live music at night? Let the sound of Ammar, a talented young musician from Stolac, lead you to his gig in one the old town’s bars (check his Instagram for updates). “His voice matches the magic of his hometown.”
- Stay long and discover all that Stolac has to offer! “I would highly discourage NOT spending enough time in Stolac. A drive through could be sufficient for some, but in my humble opinion, Stolac deserves to be savoured slowly and therefore I recommend spending at least a couple of days there.”
What is your fondest memory?
“One of my absolute favourite days, ever, is a day I spent with my two very good friends walking up the Stolac river. We probably walked 2 kilometres up to the river camp, making stops along the way to swim in the fresh river, picnic in the meadows, admire the beautiful old houses and pick berries and figs. Truly a perfect day in Stolac!”
Read more stories from other travellers here.
