EAST SARAJEVO PLANS CONSTRUCTION OF 150 KM OF CYCLING TRAILS

East Sarajevo is set to significantly expand its tourism offer with the development of over 150 kilometers of mountain biking trails connecting the region’s most scenic peaks—Jahorina, Ravna Planina, and Trebević—according to Denis Šulić, Minister of Trade and Tourism of Republika Srpska.

PHOTO: Pixabay

The project, titled "Establishing Bicycle Trails Sarajevo–Pale–Ravna Planina–Jahorina–Dvorišta–Trebević–East Sarajevo," aims to link almost all municipalities within the city of East Sarajevo. Minister Šulić announced that the first phase is expected to be completed within the year and emphasized the five-year plan to promote cycling tourism, one of the fastest-growing sectors in global travel.

“Republika Srpska has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor tourism,” Šulić said, highlighting the region’s existing trail infrastructure and the rich natural beauty that makes it ripe for expansion. “This project will enrich the tourism offering of East Sarajevo and help build year-round tourism across the Sarajevo-Romanija region.”

The long-term goal is to have East Sarajevo certified as a “Bike Friendly” city, placing it among the world’s top cycling destinations. The trails will traverse areas known for their biodiversity and pristine nature, connecting major natural landmarks.

Igor Ikonić, Director of the East Sarajevo Tourism Organization, described cycling tourism as a key opportunity for developing summer tourism in the city.

He revealed that the total project value is estimated at 550,000 KM, and that a cooperation protocol will soon be signed, including financial support for the initial phase.

“This is a strategic project for the city. We will also apply for funding from international financiers,” Ikonić stated. He added that work will complement the ongoing construction of a cycling trail from Bistrik in Sarajevo to Pale. By the end of the year, a segment from Pale to Ravna Planina is expected to be completed, with further expansion planned toward Jahorina, Dvorišta, Trebević Nature Park, and Tvrdimići.

While the complete 150 km network is unlikely to be finalized in 2025, priority will be given to marking and securing already defined trail routes. “The most financially demanding section is the integration of the trail through Pale due to its urban character,” Ikonić noted.

Pale Mayor Dejan Kojić expressed strong support for the project, noting that his municipality will benefit the most from it. The trail will run from Stanica–Pale, through the town center, to Ravna Planina, and onward to Jahorina and Trebević.

“We are fully committed and will support the project both financially and operationally,” said Kojić.

Nemanja Vučetić, representative of the Jahorina Hoteliers Association, stressed that the association was one of the project’s initiators. He emphasized the need to expand the region’s summer tourism offer and ensure the project leads to sustainable operations for local businesses.

“Our strength lies in the proximity of Sarajevo, which must be leveraged. We are following global tourism trends, and our goal is to define a unique summer tourism product for the region based on cycling tourism,” said Vučetić.