WHEN LJUBINJE SMELLS OF LAVENDER – A BEAUTY THAT EVEN OUTSHINES TUSCANY

Across the vast Ljubinjsko polje stretch lavender plantations covering around ten hectares of aromatic purple flowers, creating landscapes reminiscent of the most beautiful Mediterranean scenery. This Mediterranean plant fits perfectly into the Herzegovinian karst – it demands very little, thriving best in strong sunlight, dry soil, and open spaces.

PHOTO: Instagram - Ljekobilje

PHOTO: Instagram - Ljekobilje

PHOTO: Instagram: Ljekobilje

PHOTO: Instagram: Ljekobilje

Lavender has a wide range of uses in culinary arts, medicine, and cosmetics, while the lavender grown in Ljubinje is primarily used for the production of essential oils. Alongside lavender, other medicinal plants such as immortelle, sage, and heather are also cultivated, further confirming this area’s reputation as a region rich in aromatic and healing herbs. Its quality, as well as its medicinal and therapeutic properties, are widely known and highly valued.

Special attention is drawn to the plantations managed by Ljbilje from Ljubinje, a company that has operated for more than twenty years under the brand Ljekobilje. 

The company successfully engages in the cultivation, purchasing, and processing of medicinal, aromatic, and spice herbs, making an important contribution to local production and the recognition of the region.

On plantations that resemble landscapes from Tuscany or the south of France, two types of lavender are grown – gross and angustifolia. 

Through the distillation process, high-quality essential oils are obtained and later used in the production of creams, massage oils, and other cosmetic products.

Lavender is most commonly planted in two periods – spring or autumn – and reaches full bloom in late June and throughout July. During this time, Ljubinjsko polje becomes a true attraction: fragrant rows of purple flowers create scenes that many locals and visitors capture in photographs year after year.