The 128-kilometer ride starts on Sunday, March 29, from Mostar through Čapljina, Ljubuški and Grude – the same section that the world’s cycling elite will pass a few weeks later.
In the world of cycling, there is one race that surpasses all others – the Tour de France. For amateurs around the world, the pinnacle of dreams is not just watching that race, but participating in the L’Etape event, which allows them to ride the same route, under the same conditions as the professionals. It’s that mythical moment when an amateur steps on the starting line and, at least for a day, lives the life of a professional.
In 2026, that mythical moment will come to Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is not just a recreational ride – this is cycling’s “Holy Sunday”. This is your chance to feel the pulse of the asphalt that the world’s elite from 38 countries will race through just a few weeks later at the premiere edition of the Tour of Bosnia and Herzegovina. You will be the first to “test” the terrain.
Drive in the paths of heroes: A section that writes history
Forget about ordinary weekend drives. This is your chance to become part of a global cycling story. The 128-kilometer route that we drive as part of the “Meet Herzegovina” event is the official section of the 2nd stage of the Tour.
This means that you will enjoy every kilometer to Počitelje, evaluate the sprint through Čapljina, and ride that brutal, decisive climb in Peć Mlini (which will be the mountain finish of the race) exactly as the professionals will do it a few weeks later. Just like in the “Haute Route” or “L’Etape” races, there is no hiding here – either you will conquer the Herzegovinian hills, or they will conquer you.
More than cycling: The smell of local cuisine and Herzegovinian feast
While in Flanders they drink strong beer and eat waffles after a victory, we in Herzegovina celebrate in our own way. Our route is not just asphalt; it is the smell of homemade rastika, prosciutto, cheese and top wines. It’s the taste of Herzegovinian cuisine that will greet you at the finish line, reminding you why this is a country that everyone falls in love with all over again.
Logistics at the professional level
You don’t have to be Eddy Merckx to feel like a champion. We have provided the kind of support that participants in the world’s biggest races enjoy:
- Escort and security: With the support of GumaM and the Dacia Bigster official vehicle,
the road will be safe and passable. - Refresh the champion: Vivia water, fresh fruit and isotonics are waiting for you at the key
route points. - The technical elite: M-Bike Shop service team will be your “Mavic” support on the road,
ready to solve any malfunction on the fly. - Choose your pace: Pro-style or Enjoyment
In order to ensure the best experience for everyone, the participants will be divided into two groups:
1. FAST GROUP (Pro-style): For those who want to feel the intensity of the race and test their legs at the pace of the Tour.
2. SLOWER GROUP (Recreational): For enjoying the landscapes, taking photos of Kravica and slowly turning the pedals while socializing.
Event details:
- The date: Sunday, March 29, 2026
- Start: 10:00 a.m. | Croatian home of Herceg Stjepan Kosač (Rondo, Mostar)
- Route: Mostar – Čapljina – Ljubuški – Drinovci – Grude – Ljubuški – Mostar (128
km) - Applications: Open on LINK.
This event is realized with the selfless support of partners: HT Eronet, Tourist Board HNŽ/K, Vivia, M-Bike Shop and GumaM. Join us! Come to open the season together, feel the pulse of the Tour and show the world the cycling heart of Herzegovina. For, before they arrive for glory, we will pass for pleasure. See you at the start – feel the pulse of the Tour!announced from Herzegovina Bike.
(www.jabuka.tv | Photo: PR)
