From a Natural Gem to a Tourism Business: Šipovo Attracts Visitors and Investment

In recent years, Šipovo has become increasingly recognised on the tourism map of Republika Srpska, with its development particularly noticeable after the pandemic, when many domestic tourists discovered the beauty of the area.

This is also confirmed by Marko Radić, Head of the Tourism Promotion Sector at the Tourism Organisation of Republika Srpska and one of the most prominent tourism professionals in Bosnia and Herzegovina. During another visit to Šipovo, he highlighted for SeeSrpska the places, flavours and experiences that visitors should not miss, reports SeeSrpska.

Šipovo Is Increasingly Living from Tourism

“I am not visiting Šipovo for the first time, but I have to admit that, compared with my last visit, the place feels much more tourist-oriented than before. Apartments, bungalows and various eco-zones can be seen everywhere, and it is quite clear that a significant part of the local population has begun to embrace the role of hosts,” Radić says.

According to him, the growing involvement of the local population is crucial for Šipovo’s future, particularly when it comes to protecting nature.

“During the Covid period, Šipovo, so to speak, came back to life. It was discovered. We all discovered it little by little, promoted it, and saw something unique, important and full of potential that could be offered to tourists,” Radić points out.

Janjske Otoke – A Place Attracting More and More Visitors

One of the essential stops is Janjske Otoke, where Radić encountered a large number of visitors.

“I was greeted by crowds at Janjske Otoke. The sheer number of cars parked in every possible way is unsettling in itself. There was also a bus that had just arrived. Janjske Otoke at Dragana’s place… colourful, sweet and packed like a pomegranate,” Radić describes the atmosphere.

Compared with his previous visits, he also notices an increasing number of local households that have recognised the tourism potential of the area. There are several places nearby for rest and relaxation, and the offer, he says, has a simple, rural character — precisely what many visitors come for.

Rivers, Springs, Waterfalls and a Primeval Forest

Šipovo is particularly rich in natural attractions. The list of recommendations includes the Janj and Pliva rivers, their springs, waterfalls, Janjske Otoke, the Janj primeval forest, as well as numerous other natural sites.

The Janj primeval forest is located near Janjske Otoke and administratively belongs to Šipovo. The reserve covers 295 hectares, while logging and any form of human activity are prohibited across 58 hectares, further demonstrating the value and importance of this natural area.

During his visit, Radić also visited a waterfall on the Janj River. The path to the waterfall passes through private property, but visitors are not charged for access. They can, however, support the local household by purchasing refreshments from a friendly local woman at very affordable prices.

A Cow as a Tourist Attraction

One seemingly ordinary sight particularly caught Radić’s attention.

“Cows are everywhere around us. What is interesting is that quite a lot of people are taking photographs of them. You get the impression that they are an attraction. Caught up in it, I take a photo too. I often talk about this: authentic, simple and everyday scenes are changing as a result of major changes in our way of life and its pace. A cow is an attraction. Hey!”

According to Radić, scenes like these show what modern tourists are increasingly looking for — authenticity, nature and experiences they cannot find in everyday urban life.

From Monasteries to Janj Braided Cheese

Šipovo is about more than nature. Radić’s list of recommendations also includes a monastery, caves, river springs and local gastronomy.

He particularly highlights the things that make the area authentic — Janj braided cheese, homemade kajmak and trout, along with numerous other products and flavours characteristic of the region.

Šipovo is thus increasingly becoming a destination where nature, tradition, local food and hospitality come together to create an authentic tourism experience.

And judging by the crowds Radić encountered at Janjske Otoke and the growing number of local hosts opening their doors to tourists, Šipovo has only just begun writing its tourism story.