RISING TOURISM IN HAN PIJESAK

Han Pijesak is experiencing a surge in popularity among tourists, with an increasing number of visitors from Belgrade, Novi Sad, Bijeljina, and Brčko expressing interest in building vacation homes in this picturesque mountain town. This trend, confirmed by the municipal Tourist Organization, highlights the growing appeal of Han Pijesak as a destination.

Svjetlana Tomović, acting director of the Tourist Organization, attributes this rise to several factors, including the declaration of Han Pijesak as an air spa by the Government of Republika Srpska and the opening of the Igrišta Ski Center. According to Tomović, these developments represent a significant step forward for tourism, promising to attract more visitors and boost the local economy.

"This will promote Han Pijesak as an attractive tourist destination, not just in winter but also during the summer months, where visitors can enjoy the benefits of the air spa, hiking, cycling, and other activities," said Tomović. She added that the municipality’s rich natural resources, including pristine landscapes, clean mountain air, freshwater springs, and forest fruits, position it as an ideal getaway for both domestic and international tourists.

TOURIST GEMS OF HAN PIJESAK

One of the region’s most notable attractions is the royal residence of King Alexander Karađorđević, built in 1921 and the only royal residence in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although partially damaged during World War II and later used as a government residence, the castle was destroyed by fire in 2005. Reconstruction efforts began last year, with the first phase completed under the supervision of the Institute for the Protection of Cultural, Historical, and Natural Heritage of Republika Srpska.

"The second phase of reconstruction, which started in August, includes building and roofing the structure," Tomović explained. She noted that the restored residence would closely resemble the original 1921 design and is expected to be functional within two years.

"The facility will have cultural, historical, and commercial elements, including a museum, wine cellar, seminar hall, and royal apartments," she added. Tomović emphasized the castle’s importance in preserving historical and cultural values while also contributing to regional tourism development.

Another historic site near the village of Pjenovac is Pošijak, a medieval fortress built in the 11th or 12th century. This architectural gem is perched on a ridge overlooking the Pištica and Bjesnica streams and features remnants of medieval ceramics and iron slag.

"The fortress, shaped like a ship, includes a rock-adjacent structure and a northern-side cistern filled with stones. Archaeologists visited the site in 1962 but have conducted no further research since then," Tomović said. Adjacent to the fortress is an Orthodox necropolis with stećak tombstones, adding to the historical significance of the area.

FOREST TRAILS AND NATURAL BEAUTY

Han Pijesak’s lush forests and expansive meadows offer an ideal setting for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. These trails wind through stunning landscapes and lead to viewpoints that provide breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding area.

"Cycling along forest paths and open meadows allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and history of the region," Tomović remarked. She also highlighted the municipality’s rich biodiversity, including various wildlife species, medicinal herbs, edible mushrooms, and rare plants.

The area’s dense forests and mountain meadows create a serene and inviting environment for nature lovers and adventurers alike. "Walking trails through attractive forest areas end at viewpoints offering magnificent views, making them the perfect way to explore the charms of our municipality," said Tomović.

PROMOTING TOURISM

Founded on November 21 last year, the Han Pijesak Tourist Organization has already participated in several international fairs to showcase the region’s beauty and potential. Among its initiatives are the publication of a brochure detailing hiking and cycling routes as well as accommodation options, and the organization of the fourth annual Gastro-Tourism Goulash Festival, supported by the Municipality of Han Pijesak.

The organization’s next promotional event will be at a fair in Belgrade from February 20 to 23, where it plans to unveil new promotional materials aimed at attracting even more visitors to this hidden gem of Republika Srpska.