This region characterizes the diversity of its above-ground and underground waters. The source of the Buna is one of the largest and most beautiful in Europe.
It is the finest example of an underground karst river. It flows out of a 200m cliff wall and single-handedly creates the Buna River. Unsurprisingly, the Ottoman sultan was impressed, and ordered a tekija to be built right next to it. This 16th century house/monastery was built for the Dervish cults and is still one of the most mystical places in all of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is open to visitors all year round and serves cold drinks, tea and Turkish coffee in a beautiful garden overlooking the source of the River.
Tekija
The region is also known for the diversity of its flora and a number of endemic species. At lower altitudes there are many evergreen plant and deciduous thicket species, while at higher altitudes in the hills there is sparse forest. Fertile cultivable land is suitable for the agriculture typical of the Mediterranean climate.
TO DO & SEE
Blagaj's old town is worth taking a walk through. This lazy Herzegovinian town moves at a slow pace and many of its old structures are reminiscent of Ottoman days.
A newly built heritage trail around the town is a rather pleasant 30-45 minute walk starting at the Tekija-Dervish House. The Velagic House was built in 17th century and is a beautiful example of Ottoman stone masonry. In the vicinity are also old flourmills that the strong Buna powered. Just a short walk from the Tekija house is the Norfish restaurant. Here you can handpick your choice of fresh trout from the cold waters of the Buna (it maintains a constant temperature of 10°C).
Velagića Houses
The food is excellent and they serve traditional meat dishes as well as trout. With wine, a hearty meal will cost around 20KM or less. Pass the restaurant back towards town in the old carsija, and you'll see the Sultan Sulejman Mosque from 1520 and the beautiful Ottoman Karadoz-begova ćuprija built in 1570 over the Buna River. The well kept paved trail then follows the Buna back to its source on the other side and to great spots for photographing the spring and the Tekija House.
If you are in for a bit of hiking, you could walk to the fortress of Herceg Stjepan, who ruled Hum (present-day Herzegovina) in the Middle Ages. This fort was originally an Illyrian tribe settlement that was later reinforced by the Roman invaders, further fortified by the ruling Bosnian state and significantly expanded with the arrival of the Ottomans. Atop the high cliffs, this fort is accessible by a winding trail that takes about an hour to walk. It has not been conserved but many of its high walls are still intact. It is a great place for a view of the Neretva Valley and an ideal picnic spot. The trail is not marked but easy to find. There are no guides or entrance fees to the fort.
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