JANJSKE OTOKE, THE PRIMEVAL FOREST, AND RELIGIOUS TOURISM ATTRACT VISITORS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Šipovo has experienced a tourism boom, with a large number of foreign visitors coming from former Yugoslav countries, Europe, and across the globe, said municipal mayor Milan Kovač in a statement to SRNA.

The tourism development trend over the past three years in this small municipality in western Republika Srpska has been significant.

“All families involved in rural accommodation are satisfied, the Janj Islands are ready, as well as all associations and tourist destinations. From May 1st, there are no free beds available in the municipality — everything is fully booked,” said Kovač.

In line with the municipality's development strategy and the preparation for the current tourist season, Kovač explained that the local administration, through the Tourist Organization, has created the basic conditions necessary for a successful season and for ensuring that visitors leave satisfied with what Šipovo has to offer.

“Experience so far shows that everyone who visits this local community once continues to return year after year,” Kovač proudly added.

EVERYONE IS SATISFIED

Kovač emphasized the importance of the tourism sector thriving in Šipovo, highlighting that everyone benefits from its success — especially Republika Srpska, with the local community benefiting the most.

He believes that overall satisfaction is high and that there are many reasons to support the growing tourism story in the region.

“We offer a well-rounded tourist package through the Tourist Organization, and so far it has proven to be very successful. In addition to natural beauty, we also promote religious tourism, and in the coming years, we will intensify efforts to develop rural tourism further,” Kovač said.

According to him, Šipovo is also following the global trend of “forest bathing” — a practice that originated in Japan — thanks to its untouched natural environment, including the Janj primeval forest.

RURAL ACCOMMODATION, A HOTEL, AND TWO MOTELS

The Šipovo Tourist Organization told SRNA that, in addition to rural accommodation, the municipality offers lodging in one hotel and two motels.

When it comes to natural attractions, special attention is given to Janjske Otoke (Janj Islands), Veganska Cave, the Pliva springs, the Janj spring, the Glogovac Monastery, and the Janj rainforest.

The municipality also supports activities such as sport hunting and fishing, both of which are in high demand.

A wide range of events is organized throughout the year, including “Days of Šipovo,” “Janj Gathering,” and “Janj Games.” During the winter, Šipovo hosts the “Winter on the Town Square” event around New Year's and Christmas.

The Tourist Organization highlights strong cooperation with neighboring municipalities such as Jezero, Mrkonjić Grad, Ribnik, and Jajce, as well as with other municipalities and cities across the region and beyond.

NEED TO RENOVATE THE MEDIEVAL FORTRESS SOKOGRAD

In terms of future plans, the Tourist Organization emphasizes the need to renovate the medieval Sokograd fortress in the village of Sokolac near Šipovo, including the access road and walking path around the site.

They also believe it's necessary to restore hiking and walking trails, particularly a 300-meter section in Veganska Cave.

Tourism professionals point out the need to improve the town’s tourist signage, enhance the overall promotion of its tourism capacities, protect Janjske Otoke, and construct a walking trail to the Janj spring.

The Tourist Organization also takes part in national and international events in cooperation with the Tourist Organization of Republika Srpska. These events feature local handicrafts and the region’s culinary offerings, prepared according to traditional recipes using locally sourced ingredients.