The Neretva River, river flowing in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in Croatia. The Neretva River rises on Lebršnik Mountain and flows northwest past Konjic to Jablanica (Jablaničko) Lake, then southwest via Mostar to enter the Adriatic Sea near the city of Ploce. In this last part of its journey, the Neretva river is a slow and peaceful river, somewhat resembling a human being in his last years of life. But it seems that this river made its most special landscape right here at its end. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural scenery, it’s a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking to go kayaking, hiking, kiteboarding or kitesurfing or simply soak up the beauty of the surroundings, the Neretva River has something for everyone.
Introduction to the Neretva River and its location.
The Neretva River is the largest river of the eastern part of the Adriatic basin which stretches for 220 km in Bosnia and Herzegovina and for the last 20 km in Croatia. Neretva River flows through valley, surrounded by mountains: to the north Bitovnja (1700 m above sea level) and Vranica (2112 m asl), south side of the limit of the mountain (2103 m asl) and Čvrsnica (2226 m asl), while in the west is Bjelasnica (2062 m asl).
It is extremely rich in water and in natural resources with many endemic and fragile life forms which are threatened and often exploited in an unsustainable manner, thus endangering landscapes, habitats and biodiversity. It is still recognized for its natural beauty and diversity of its landscapes and contains the significant portion of fresh drinking water. The main present and potential pressures are: existing and planned hydropower utilization, gravel and sand extraction, river regulation resulting from the use of floodplains for agriculture and settlements, navigation, water use for irrigation, inappropriate management of fisheries etc.
Neretva – The Valley of Life
Narrow canals and backwaters, untouched nature, underwater towns, exquisite gastronomy, green fields full of colorful citrus fruits and a history to fall in love with. The land you dream of – the Neretva Valley! The Dubrovnik- Neretva county, among other things, is the only host of a delta in Croatia. The river Neretva is open to the sea making the towns along it Mediterranean in every sense. Since prehistoric times, the area of the Neretva valley has been inhabited – mainly because of its naturally rich soil. One of the richest archeological sights in the valley, because of its geographical position is surely Narona, or today the town of Vid, located 3 kilometers from Metković. When sailing the Neretva river in authentic boats, through hidden backwaters and streams you can either have a picknick or just enjoy the sight of the ripening fruits along the way.
The bustle and the hustle of the city life will not follow you here – to a land full of interesting stories, legends and adventures just waiting to happen.
Rafting and kayaking adventures on the river.
The Neretva River is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts, offering a range of rapids and currents suitable for all levels of experience. From gentle family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping white-water rapids, there’s something for everyone on the Neretva River. Experienced guides are available to lead you through the rapids and ensure your safety, while also providing insight into the local history and culture. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the thrill of rafting or kayaking on the beautiful Neretva River.
Kitesurfing on Croatian river Neretva.
Adrenaline junkies will enjoy the fact that Neretva is a true paradise for kitesurfers. The location is ideal for this sport due to Croatian winds called maestral and tramuntana.
If you are not into adrenaline sports, make sure to visit the delta of Neretva anyways. The swimming experience and chilling on a soft sandy beach are unique and different. You can always observe experienced surfers and learn something from them.
However, if you want to learn about kite equipment, flying technics, safety, piloting an inflatable kite, water relaunch, body dragging in the water, and self-rescue technics, enroll in a kitesurfing school.
Two following kite centers operate on the Neretva estuary, each with a private kite school: Kitesurfing, Neretva Kiteboarding is the best place to learn kitesurfing and Kiteboarding Komin Neretva (kiteboarding-komin-neretva.com)
Hiking and exploring the surrounding nature.
In addition to rafting and kayaking, the Neretva River and its surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. The nearby mountains provide stunning views and challenging hikes for experienced hikers, while more casual nature lovers can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbanks. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and even wild horses. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a peaceful escape into nature, the Neretva River has something to offer.
Cultural experiences and historical landmarks in the area.
In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, the Neretva River region is also rich in cultural experiences and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Mostar, known for its iconic bridge and Ottoman-era architecture. The nearby town of Počitelj offers a glimpse into medieval Bosnia, with its well-preserved fortress and traditional stone houses. And for those interested in the region’s more recent history, the Neretva Valley was the site of fierce fighting during the Bosnian War, and visitors can learn about this period at the War Photo Exhibition in Mostar.
Tips for planning your Neretva River adventure.
If you’re planning a trip to the Neretva River, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your adventure. First, decide what activities you want to do and plan accordingly. If you’re interested in rafting, for example, make sure to book a tour with a reputable company and bring appropriate gear. If you’re more interested in hiking, research the best trails in the area and make sure to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Additionally, consider the time of year you’re visiting, as weather conditions can vary greatly. Finally, don’t forget to take some time to explore the region’s cultural and historical landmarks, as they offer a unique perspective on the area’s rich history and traditions.
