The Via Dinarica hiking trail, a magnificent thread woven from three long trails through the eight countries of the central Dinarides, found its place in the 2020 National Geographic book “100 Hikes of a Lifetime”. This recognition reflects not only the physical beauty of the trail but also its cultural significance.
The National Geographic text begins with a description of the Western Balkans as an area defined by its rugged, mountainous landscapes and a long history of wars, conquests, changing religions, and visiting peoples.
It is emphasized that technically the Via Dinarica is not one path, but three long paths that connect ancient routes with newly built junctions. The Blue Line follows the coast, the Green Line weaves through forests and valleys, and the White Line meanders through high zones, climbing some of the highest peaks in each country.
So far, the White Trail is the only one that has been completed, covering about 783 miles (1,260 km) and ascending and descending more than 160,000 feet (50,000 m).
“On its way through the Balkans, the White Line of Via Dinaricacrosses numerous white limestone mountains and karsts of various shapes and heights, deep beech forests, high meadows full of wildflowers, glacial lakes, and remote communities where locals still live and work on farms and pastures. In some areas, hikers camp. In others, they stay in lodgings ranging from remote cabins to family guesthouses. Between communities, it is possible to see deer, bear and chamois. Also watch out for foxes, rabbits, snakes and even wild boars. Hikers say the trail’s undiscovered nature and encounters with enthusiastic locals are some of the highlights of the trek,” writes National Geographic.
The president of the organization Zemlja Dinarika – Terra Dinarica, which founded Via Dinarica, and experienced mountaineer Zehrudin Isakovic states that they are proud of the fact that this top trail is included among the 100 most attractive trails in the world.
