EXPLORING UNTAMED BEAUTY: ZORAN GAJIĆ'S CYCLING JOURNEY

Banja Luka native Zoran Gajić embarks on a unique adventure armed with his GoPro camera and a drone. His mission? To traverse the pristine landscapes of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and beyond, capturing breathtaking footage along the way.

These captivating scenes find a home on his YouTube channel, "Offroad Gastro Cyclist."

Gajić has a penchant for remote, unexplored areas, tirelessly working to shed light on their beauty. "We're probably unaware of the natural treasures right at our fingertips," he muses in an interview with "Glas Srpske."

His desire to immortalize these havens of tranquility stems from a deep appreciation for his homeland's hidden gems. He shares, "It all started as a hobby, but now I have 50 videos."

His repertoire extends beyond Banja Luka, showcasing enchanting landscapes from regions like Krajina, including Drvar, Grahovo, Glamoč, and Petrovac. His lens has even captured the mesmerizing beauty from Virpazar to Lake Skadar.

For Gajić, every corner of his country holds allure. With summer upon us, he sees it as the perfect time for new adventures.

- My goal is to promote the stunning nature. If you veer off the main roads cluttered with litter, you'll find solace in the mountains, he emphasizes. Yet, his mission extends beyond scenery; he aims to spotlight traditional customs integral to Bosnia and Herzegovina's identity.

- These traditions intrigue people, especially Slovenians and foreigners, he notes.

Among these customs is the rich tapestry of ethno-music, alongside efforts to support local livelihoods.

- Those who venture into nature aren't seeking extravagance. Setting up tents in your backyard and indulging in local cuisine is more than enough, he asserts.

While not a cyclist fixated on time, Gajić typically covers between 70 to 100 kilometers daily. However, what truly captivates him is the warmth of Bosnian hospitality.

- People are welcoming and kind. Wherever I go, I'm always invited to share a meal and a drink, he reflects.

Yet, beneath this hospitality lies a concern: the gradual emptiness of rural villages.

- It's a common lament; few return to these places. When I showcase these areas, I often receive messages from their relatives expressing regret over the neglect of such natural splendor, he laments.

In his tireless exploration, Zoran Gajić not only captures breathtaking vistas but also serves as a guardian of Bosnia and Herzegovina's untamed beauty, igniting a renewed appreciation for its landscapes and heritage among viewers worldwide.