SKIERS FLOOD BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA’S MOUNTAINS

Skiers from Bosnia and Herzegovina and across the region have flocked to the country’s mountains in recent days, taking advantage of excellent winter conditions on Jahorina, Bjelašnica and Vlašić. Heavy snowfall, well-prepared slopes and a lively atmosphere confirm that the winter season is in full swing.

The Olympic Center Jahorina says the mountain is enjoying a true winter idyll, with ski facilities operating at full capacity.

“The ski resort is running at full capacity, with exceptionally well-groomed and prepared slopes. From the very beginning of the season, we have recorded strong visitor numbers, and accommodation capacities are almost fully booked. New snowfall expected in the coming days further promises an extension of excellent conditions for winter activities and mountain stays,” representatives of the Olympic Center Jahorina told Nezavisne novine.

ADVENTURE ON JAHORINA

They point out that interest in Jahorina continues to grow year after year, confirming its status as one of the most attractive winter destinations in the region. A special highlight is night skiing, available daily on the Poljice and Partizan gondolas from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Currently, around 50 centimeters of snow cover the mountain, providing highly favorable skiing conditions.

“The combination of natural snowfall and artificial snowmaking systems allows continuous maintenance of slopes in top condition. The mountain environment, fresh air and stable weather make a stay on Jahorina particularly pleasant during winter days,” the Olympic Center added.

This winter season has also brought a historic moment for Jahorina. After 42 years, the legendary “Olympic Downhill” slope has been reopened to skiers.

“The reopening of this slope carries strong symbolism. Through modernization and new investments, Jahorina is preserving its Olympic heritage while moving forward. Fully prepared and safe, the slope once again welcomes skiers and represents a blend of tradition and modern development,” officials explained.

They also noted that ski pass prices have not changed for three years, despite the current peak season, during which all facilities are operating at maximum intensity.

OVER 50 SKI DAYS ON BJELAŠNICA

The Olympic Center Bjelašnica also expressed great satisfaction with the current winter season, which has already exceeded 50 ski days—an achievement they describe as rare in the region.

“We are particularly proud to have been the first in Bosnia and Herzegovina to open the ski season, confirming our operational readiness and quality management. Accommodation capacities on Bjelašnica and in the surrounding area have been fully booked since mid-December, while interest from guests from the country and the region continues to grow,” representatives of the Olympic Center Bjelašnica said.

They report that snow depth at the very top of Bjelašnica reaches around three meters, ensuring stable and long-lasting skiing conditions. The price of a daily ski pass has been adjusted compared to last season and now stands at 59 BAM for adults.

“Prices have been adjusted minimally and symbolically, considering the significant rise in energy costs, maintenance and other operational expenses. Our goal remains to keep prices affordable while maintaining a high level of safety and service quality,” they emphasized.

WINTER MAGIC ON VLAŠIĆ

Winter conditions have also delighted visitors to Vlašić. Samer Dolovac, director of the Tourist Organization of Travnik, told Nezavisne novine that the mountain has enjoyed a true winter idyll throughout much of January.

“The slopes are perfectly prepared, and a large number of tourists from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region are staying on Vlašić. Weekends are particularly busy, but weekdays are also lively due to school holidays in Bosnia and the region, which brought noticeable tourist turnover. During the New Year holidays and the first ten days of January, we had many guests from Croatia, and now from Bosnia and Herzegovina, with announcements of arrivals from Serbia and Slovenia,” Dolovac said.

He expressed hope that late January and February will also bring good conditions, with slopes ready for skiing.

“So far, it appears that this winter season could be excellent, but we will wait to see how weather conditions develop. One of the reasons for strong visitor numbers is certainly the fact that Vlašić has not changed ski pass prices. When you balance the offer and prices, Vlašić remains at an optimal level,” he added.

According to Dolovac, a daily ski pass on Vlašić costs 32 BAM, while half-day and night skiing passes are priced at 25 BAM.