AN UNUSUAL RESORT COMES TO LIFE ON THE SLOPES OF MOUNT KOZARA

On the sunlit slopes of the historic Mount Kozara, a new story is taking shape—one that brings together sustainable agriculture and boutique tourism. Above the well-known apple orchards of Turjak and Grbavci, in the village of Kozara, the company PEVA d.o.o. has launched an integrated project that combines organic fruit production with high-quality nature-based tourism.

PHOTO: AgroKlub

At the heart of this vision lies the Kozara Panoramic Resort, a new destination on the tourist map of the Municipality of Gradiška. Situated at an altitude of 400 meters and just 45 minutes from Banja Luka, the resort offers breathtaking panoramic views, clean mountain air, and the rare privilege of complete forest silence.

Privacy, Comfort, and Authenticity

The resort is designed for both domestic and international guests seeking privacy, comfort, and an authentic stay in nature. Five exclusive wooden cottages, each featuring a private pool and sauna, are carefully integrated into the natural surroundings, creating a perfect balance between contemporary luxury and unspoiled wilderness.

A key value of the project is its strong focus on organic food production. Adjacent to the resort, PEVA has established blueberry plantations, complemented by blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and a variety of seasonal vegetables. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy fresh, locally produced food as part of a holistic concept centered on health, relaxation, and a close connection to nature.

“I am a strong advocate of healthy nutrition and environmental protection,” said owner Dragana Malešević-Truscott in an interview with AgroKlub.

Agriculture Meets Refined Tourism

At the beginning of 2025, two dunums of blueberries were planted, featuring the Duke and Bluecrop varieties. In a newly established plantation, the Duke, Brigitta Blue, and Chandler varieties are represented. The plantations have been developed using modern agrotechnical practices, including mulching, organized access between rows, and environmentally responsible land management.

“Together with my husband James, and guided by our family roots in this region, I decided to create a place on Kozara where sustainable agriculture and refined tourism naturally complement one another. Our guests will not only enjoy top-quality accommodation, but also walks through vast meadows and forests, as well as truly clean, organic food,” Malešević-Truscott explains.

From the very beginning, the project has been committed to certified organic production. It is currently in the second year of the conversion process under the supervision of the certification body Organic Control from Subotica, with certification expected in the near future. Expert support is also being provided by specialists from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management of the Republic of Srpska.

Beyond tourism, the project has clear long-term agricultural ambitions. With blueberry production in the Republic of Srpska showing strong growth and domestic demand still exceeding supply, PEVA plans to position itself as a premium producer and a future export partner.