ŠIPOVO HAS COME ALIVE: MARKO RADIĆ REVEALS ITS TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

In recent years, Šipovo has become increasingly recognised on the tourist map of Republika Srpska, with its development particularly noticeable after the pandemic, when many domestic tourists discovered the beauty of this area.

PHOTO: Instagram: Marko Radić

PHOTO: Instagram: Marko Radić

This is also confirmed by Marko Radić, Head of the Tourism Promotion Sector at the Tourism Organisation of Republika Srpska and one of the most prominent tourism professionals in Bosnia and Herzegovina, who recently returned to Šipovo and shared with SeeSrpska the places, flavours and experiences visitors should not miss.

ŠIPOVO IS INCREASINGLY EMBRACING TOURISM

“This is not my first time in Šipovo, but I have to admit that, compared to my previous visit, the place has a much stronger tourism feel. Apartments, bungalows and various eco-zones can be found everywhere, and it is clear that many local residents have begun embracing their role as hosts,” Radić says.

According to him, the growing involvement of local residents is particularly important for the future of Šipovo, especially when it comes to protecting its natural environment.

“During the pandemic, Šipovo, if you can put it that way, came to life. It was discovered. We all discovered it little by little, promoted it, and recognised something unique, valuable and with real potential to be developed as a tourism product,” Radić points out.

JANJSKE OTOKE - A DESTINATION ATTRACTING MORE AND MORE VISITORS

One of the places that should not be missed is Janjske Otoke, where Radić encountered a large number of visitors.

“I was greeted by crowds at Janjske Otoke. The sheer number of cars parked in every possible way creates a certain sense of discomfort. There was also a bus that had just arrived. Janjske Otoke at Dragana’s… colourful, sweet and packed to the brim,” Radić says, describing the atmosphere.

Compared to his previous visits, he also noticed that an increasing number of local households have recognised the tourism potential of the area. Visitors can now find several places nearby to sit, relax and enjoy the surroundings. The offer, he notes, is simple and rural in character – precisely the kind of experience many visitors come looking for.

RIVERS, SPRINGS, WATERFALLS AND PRISTINE FORESTS

Šipovo is particularly rich in natural attractions. Radić recommends the Janj and Pliva rivers, their springs, waterfalls, Janjske Otoke, the Janj primeval forest, as well as numerous other natural sites.

The Janj primeval forest, administratively part of Šipovo, is located near Janjske Otoke. The reserve covers 295 hectares, while logging and any form of human activity are prohibited across 58 hectares, further highlighting the value and importance of this natural area.

During his visit, Radić also explored a waterfall on the Janj River. The path to the waterfall passes through private property, but there is no entrance fee. Visitors can, however, support the local household by purchasing refreshments from a friendly local resident, with prices described as very affordable.

WHEN A COW BECOMES A TOURIST ATTRACTION

One seemingly ordinary scene particularly caught Radić’s attention.

“Cows are everywhere around us. Interestingly, quite a lot of people are taking photographs of them. It gives the impression that they are an attraction. Carried away by the moment, I took photographs too. I often talk about this: original, simple and everyday scenes are changing as a result of major changes in our lifestyles and the pace at which we live. A cow is an attraction. Hey!”

For Radić, scenes like this illustrate what modern tourists are increasingly looking for – authenticity, nature and experiences that cannot be found in everyday urban life.

FROM MONASTERIES TO LOCAL SPECIALTIES

But Šipovo is about much more than nature. Radić’s recommendations also include a monastery, caves, river springs and local gastronomy.

He particularly highlights the flavours that make the area authentic – Janjska pletenica, homemade kajmak and trout, along with numerous other local products and traditional specialities.

Šipovo is increasingly becoming a destination where nature, tradition, local food and hospitality come together to create an authentic tourism experience.

And judging by the crowds Radić encountered at Janjske Otoke and the growing number of local hosts opening their doors to visitors, Šipovo has only just begun writing its tourism story.