SeeSrpska

HAN PIJESAK: A HIDDEN GEM WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED

Marko Radić, Head of Tourism Promotion at the Tourist Organization of the Republic of Srpska and former director of the Trebinje Tourist Organization, has described the untapped potential of Han Pijesak in a unique and captivating way.

HAN PIJESAK: A HIDDEN GEM WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED

Here is his full Facebook post:

In June, I visited Han Pijesak for the last time, and when I think about that place, I picture a peaceful mountain town, seemingly waiting to be discovered.

Nestled at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, Han Pijesak feels like a true masterpiece of nature. The air here has a refreshing, cleansing quality, and each breath is a reminder of how precious health is. This corner of the Republic of Srpska, with an average annual temperature of just 6.5°C and over 120 days of snow cover, is tailor-made for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Surrounded by dense pine forests and fresh, clean air, it’s a place where nature’s healing power is palpable. I’ve read that there are more windy days here than calm ones—yet another testament to the purity and circulation of the air. This unique climate offers more than just rest; it provides both spiritual and physical rejuvenation. Han Pijesak is an air spa like no other, not just in this part of the world but far beyond.

Though small and tranquil, this municipality holds enormous potential. It remains in its discovery phase, but every day it becomes clearer that it stands on the brink of significant transformation. Ongoing projects, such as the construction of new hotels and bungalows, the development of forest trails for hiking and biking, and the restoration of the royal summer residence, are just the beginning of a major tourism story in the making.

That same residence, the only royal castle in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has survived many historical challenges and is now closer than ever to becoming a true tourist attraction.

The recently revitalized Igrišta ski resort (www.ocigrista.com), just 15 km from Han Pijesak, further cements this region as an ideal destination for both winter and summer holidays. The Olympic Center Jahorina (www.oc-jahorina.com) and Sarajevo, only 70 km away, make Han Pijesak even more accessible—not just to nature enthusiasts and sports lovers but to the many people living in the surrounding region.

But these changes are about more than just infrastructure and tourism. Han Pijesak is something greater—a call to reconnect with nature, to embrace healthier living, and to remember the importance of preserving what we have. I believe this place has a bright future, but its success depends on us—on how much we believe in it, invest in its people and resources, and work to promote it and attract investments.

A place that is now gaining recognition will soon become a center of healthy tourism. I believe that a new tourist haven will flourish here, attracting those seeking refuge from stress, a chance to enjoy nature, and an opportunity to recover from the challenges of modern life.

The photo was taken by Gorštak, whose profile features more beautiful photos and videos of Han Pijesak—the next big destination.