Verticals
Verticals
Below the surface, along the cliffs and above the city
Herzegovina is not experienced only horizontally. It’s adventure unfolds beneath the water’s surface, along vertical rock faces and above valleys, in spaces that demand focus, respect and presence. Here, verticality is not an extreme — it is a way of moving through the landscape.
Underwater Diving
Diving in Herzegovina takes you below the surface, into a world of cold, exceptionally clear water where every dive requires focus and calm. Local diving associations, such as the Neretva Diving Club from Mostar https://neretva.ba/ organise recreational and technical dives in the Neretva River, its tributaries, springs and karst sources, often combined with education, research and nature conservation.
A special place in the region’s underwater heritage belongs to Lake Desilo, an archaeological site with remains of Illyrian boats and ancient amphorae. Due to its exceptional value, Desilo is closed to visitors and recreational diving, remaining a symbol of depths that are not meant to be conquered, but protected. Beneath the water, Herzegovina still hides riches yet to be discovered.
Via Ferrata
Via ferratas in Herzegovina allow safe movement along rock faces and above valleys, leading through terrain otherwise reserved for climbers. Secured with steel cables, steps and bridges, these routes combine hiking and climbing into an experience that demands attention, but not speed.
Routes such as the Fortica via ferrata above Mostar https://viaferrata.ba/en/ferrate/ferata-fortica/
open wide views over the city, rivers and the karst landscape. Progress along a via ferrata is slow, guided by the rhythm of the rock and breath. It is not about conquering height, but about being within it — a relationship with space built step by step.
Paragliding
Paragliding offers the quietest change of perspective. Without the noise of engines, the flight begins with a simple step, after which the landscape starts to unfold below — rivers, fields and towns merging into a single view.
Tandem flights above Mostar and the Herzegovinian karst make this experience accessible even to beginners, accompanied by experienced pilots and local guides. Flights such as tandem paragliding above Mostar are not focused on adrenaline, but on balance and trust. It is a brief distance from the ground that permanently changes the way the landscape is perceived.
Old Bridge Diving (Stari Most)
Jumping from the Old Bridge in Mostar is one of the most iconic vertical experiences in Herzegovina, deeply rooted in local tradition rather than tourism spectacle. The 24-metre jump into the cold Neretva has been practiced for centuries and represents a rite of skill, discipline and respect for the river.
Today, the tradition is preserved by local diving clubs and associations that train jumpers, pass on technique and ensure safety during organised events. Outside official competitions and demonstrations, jumping is not a casual activity, but one that requires preparation, experience and guidance.
As part of the vertical landscape of Herzegovina, the Old Bridge dive stands between air and water — a moment where height, focus and commitment meet. It is not about thrill-seeking, but about continuity: a living connection between the city, the river and the people who have learned to move confidently through both.
