First time in Herzegovina with a campervan
Herzegovina is often where first impressions of Bosnia and Herzegovina shift. The climate is warmer, the rivers are clear and quick, and the roads open into wide valleys. Travelling here by campervan gives you freedom to stop by the Neretva, camp beside Jablanica lake, and reach Mostar and Blagaj without strict schedules.
Why Herzegovina works for first timers
Driving is straightforward compared to some mountain regions. The M17 follows the Neretva valley, with fuel stations and shops in every town. Camps are shaded and usually have pitches for vans with electric hook ups. Hosts are used to international visitors and speak enough English or German to make check-in simple. The combination of rivers, lakes, and cultural towns means every stop feels like an event.
A suggested route
Day one: Sarajevo to Konjic
Pick up your campervan in Sarajevo and drive about one hour south to Konjic. Park at a riverside camp. The Neretva here is narrow and lively, with rafting trips starting in town. Konjic also has a historic stone bridge worth a short visit.
Day two: Konjic to Jablanica
Continue along the M17 to Jablanica lake. Camps along the shore offer lake swimming, fishing, and barbecue spots. Jablanica is famous for roasted lamb, which is served at roadside restaurants.
Day three: Jablanica to Mostar
Drive about 40 minutes to Mostar. Choose a camp near Blagaj or just outside the city for easy access. Spend the day visiting the Old Bridge, walking the cobbled streets, and trying ćevapi or baklava. In the evening return to camp for quiet time by the Buna river.
Day four: Blagaj and back
Blagaj Tekke monastery is built under a cliff beside the Buna spring. Camps nearby are walking distance from the site. If you plan a longer trip, continue toward Trebinje or cross into Croatia.
What to expect at Herzegovina camps
- Level pitches with electricity, often 6–16A
- Clean showers and toilets
- Wi Fi near reception
- Small restaurants serving grilled trout, lamb, or fresh bread
- Family run atmosphere, often with children and pets around
Prices are lower than in Western Europe. Expect to pay modest nightly fees in BAM (KM), with small extras for power or pets.
Driving tips
- The M17 is busy in summer, so drive early or late to avoid traffic
- Camps near rivers sometimes have gravel access roads, check reviews before arrival
- Parking in Mostar city centre is tight, so use camps on the edge of town and take a taxi in
Local flavour
Herzegovina is proud of its food and wine. In Blagaj, try trout fresh from the river. In Mostar, visit a small bakery for pita filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. South toward Trebinje, vineyards offer tastings of local red wines. Hosts often share rakija in the evening, a gesture you should accept with a smile.
Safety and good practice
- Always swim in marked areas, currents in the Neretva are strong
- Camps may collect tourist tax on arrival, so keep small notes in BAM
- Summer heat can be intense, use shade and keep plenty of water on hand
- Respect quiet hours at night, usually from 23:00 to 07:00
Frequently asked questions
Is Herzegovina safe for campervans ?
Yes, roads are good and camps are welcoming.
Can I find food and supplies easily ?
Yes, supermarkets and markets are in every town along the M17.
Do camps allow pets ?
Most do, but confirm when booking.
Can I cross into Croatia from Herzegovina ?
Yes, Trebinje and Neum crossings are common. You need a green card from your rental company.
Is Wi Fi reliable ?
In camps near towns yes, in rural spots speeds vary.
