On Sunday, the cycling event “Along the Ćiro Trail: Hutovo – Ravno – In Memoriam Nikša Vuletić” was successfully held, organized by the HerzegovinaBike association. Despite a slightly smaller number of participants compared to previous years, the event gathered 60 cycling enthusiasts from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovakia, Croatia, and Montenegro, who enjoyed one of the most scenic parts of the Ćiro Trail – the stretch through Popovo Polje.
The ride started in front of the school in the village of Hutovo. Participants cycled 30 kilometers along the route of the former narrow-gauge railway Ćiro, which today stands as one of the most attractive cycle tourism routes in the region. The flat terrain, with no challenging climbs, made it ideal for recreational cyclists of all generations, while the views of the Popovo Polje landscape left even the most experienced cyclists breathless.
This year's edition of the cycling tour held special significance – it was dedicated to the memory of Nikša Vuletić, a great friend of nature, cycling, and one of the key individuals in the development of cycle tourism in this area. Nikša was involved in the Ćiro project from the very beginning, actively supporting every initiative and leaving a lasting legacy through his enthusiasm and vision.
„Nikša was more than a collaborator – he was a friend, a man of vision and heart. This ride is dedicated to him, to his love for nature and belief in the Ćiro project. We truly believe he watched over us today, happy that we are continuing the path he once helped build“, said Toni Zorić, president of the HerzegovinaBike association.
At the finish in Ravno, the cyclists were welcomed by the Mayor of the Municipality of Ravno, Mr. Andrija Šimunović, who once again emphasized the long-standing commitment of this small Herzegovinian municipality to developing cycling infrastructure and promoting active tourism.
“Ravno is a municipality rich in natural and cultural heritage, and we see cycle tourism as a sustainable and authentic way to present this to visitors. Events like this not only bring promotion but also create real bonds between people and municipalities. We are especially pleased to have paid tribute today to a man who gave so much to this region – Nikša Vuletić," said Mayor Šimunović.
Upon arrival in Ravno, participants were treated to a lunch and social gathering at Hotel Stanica Ravno. They also had the opportunity to visit the UNESCO-listed Vjetrenica Cave – a natural gem located right alongside the Ćiro Trail.
The Ciro Trail event is realized with the financial support of: Općine Ravno, Spilja Vjetrenica, tvrtke HT Eronet, Continental Tires, Turističke Zajednice HNŽ/K, Škoda Apolo, agencije REDAH and Capriolo SC Mostar, and in order to promote "South Herzegovina and the Ćiro Narrow Gauge Railway".
The organizers emphasize that events like this are more than just sporting activities – they are a powerful tool for promoting cycle tourism, preserving heritage, and connecting people through nature and shared experiences. While cycle tourism in Herzegovina is still developing, interest from both local and international visitors is growing every day.
HerzegovinaBike has already announced a new cycling event to be held on June 1st, 2025, on the trail section between Hutovo and Neum, and invites all cycling enthusiasts to follow their activities via the website and social media. Association HerzegovinaBike.
