What’s the situation with mines along the Trans Dinarica cycle route?

On a few occasions, we’ve received the following question: “Does the Trans Dinarica cycle route come close to former minefields? Where?” This is a valid concern for cyclists who are planning to cycle the Balkans, especially across regions like Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, where remnants from the 1990s war may still exist. 

All the roads on our Balkan bike route have been in frequent use for many years, ensuring a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.

Let us be clear about this: if you stay on the Trans Dinarica route, there is no chance of danger from mines. This, however, doesn’t mean that a few areas crossed by the Trans Dinarica haven’t suffered from the war of the 1990s. In some parts of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, you will come across red signs reading “Mine! Zabranjen prolaz!” (Mines! Do not pass!) on the side of the road. In other places, there are also signs with maps where mined areas are specially marked (see the two photos below).

All roads on our Balkan bike route have been in frequent use for many years, so there is no fear of encountering a mine. But, also, to reiterate: in places where you see such signs, keep to the route. These are not the places to wander into the woods to pitch a tent.

Although we are strongly aware of this situation, we encourage cyclists not to focus on or emphasize the Balkan wars when communicating about the region or the Trans Dinarica cycling route. We encourage you to facilitate peace and focus on the nature and the people. We want to focus on the love of life, not the fear.