Road Trip Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sara Vozlič
11/14/2024
Our road trip across the Balkans in a 1984 VW RV named Roza was truly one-of-a-kind. We began in Split, where the coastal scenery set just the right tone for our start. Next was Plitvice Lakes National Park, where turquoise and waterfalls made it feel like some sort of storybook. If you go, get your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines.
From there, we crossed into Bosnia and headed towards Jajce, a city with beautiful waterfalls that fall into lakes of the purest water. We camped in a Camping lot and met very friendly and hospitable people. Local food was delicious; every meal was a pleasant surprise in Jajce.
Continuing deeper into Bosnia, we drove through several villages, each having its own characteristic appeal. Other activities that remain etched in our memory include camping at Rama Lakes. The serenity of the surroundings made it easier for us to relax, and we spent the evening canoeing on the still waters, surrounded by nothing but nature.
We then went to Mostar, which boasts the very well-known bridge, crossing over into Montenegro. In Herceg Novi, a really fun evening-out was quite different from quiet nature: full of energy, music, and smiles.
Our last stop was in Makarska, a beautiful town in Croatia where mountains meet the sea. Really, it was the perfect place to wrap up our journey, with breathtaking views and a really laidback vibe. This trip was all about incredible nature, waking up by the lake, and meeting fellow travelers.
A huge thank you goes out to Marko, the owner of Roza, for his great van, which was very well equipped, and whose communication was always on time. We felt we had a friend along for whatever might come up. Roza took us through winding roads, across borders, into some of the most beautiful places we have ever seen.
It is one of those trips that you cannot explain in words; you simply have to experience it.