HERZEGOVINIAN FARM BECOMES PART OF NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S TOURIST OFFER

A family farm in the Herzegovinian village of Skrobotno, located on the border between Trebinje and Bileća, has become part of National Geographic’s tourist offering, attracting visitors from around the world thanks to its authentic rural experience, traditional beekeeping and pristine natural surroundings.

The Kovačević family farm is run by four women and has a beekeeping tradition spanning more than a century. The family business was significantly developed in the 1980s by Milica Kovačević’s father. Following his death, Milica, her mother and her sister continued the family tradition with the support of their relatives, transforming the apiary and farm into a unique combination of heritage, nature and rural tourism.

“After his death, my mother, my sister and I inherited the apiary. Many people doubted us because beekeeping is still considered a man’s job in Herzegovina. However, we have successfully overcome all the challenges,” Milica said.

AMONG THE BEST ON THE EUROPEAN TOUR

The authentic rural estate began gaining international recognition two years ago and has since found its place on tourist maps around the world. It was also included in National Geographic’s tourist offering.

“National Geographic recognized the value and authenticity of what we do and offered us the opportunity to become part of their tours. We received the highest ratings on their European tour,” Milica added.

ORGANIC HONEY FROM PRISTINE NATURE

The family produces organic honey in an untouched natural environment. The bees collect nectar from more than 100 species of medicinal Herzegovinian plants, producing meadow honey as well as sage and heather honey.

“Since the four of us carry out all the work, this is definitely a women-run apiary. Since last year, we have held an organic certification for honey production, which is something very few producers possess,” Kovačević emphasized.

As the years go by, the family increasingly appreciates rural life, family traditions, peace and nature. Their story demonstrates that there are no strictly “men’s” or “women’s” jobs when passion, perseverance and family values come together.

That combination of tradition, authentic rural life and the exceptional natural environment of the Herzegovinian karst is precisely what has made the Kovačević farm an increasingly attractive destination for international visitors.