Prenj Massif from Konjic

The Prenj massif rises above the Neretva valley near Konjic in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is regarded as one of the country's wildest alpine ranges, with limestone peaks above 2,100 m such as Zelena Glava. Hikers usually start from the Konjic area, where a taxi to the trailhead costs roughly BAM 30-60, as public transport does not reach the mountain. The approximate route described here covers about 18 km return with around 1,200 m of ascent and takes eight to ten hours, which makes it a hard day: the climbing is sustained, the terrain is rocky and there are sections of scree and rough scrambling. Surfaces range from forest tracks in the lower valleys to bare karst, boulder fields and steep stony ground higher up. Shade exists only in the lower beech and fir forest, and the upper plateau is open to sun, wind and fast-changing cloud. Marked trails exist but waymarks can fade, so a map and GPS track are important, and a guide from a Konjic mountaineering club is a sound option for first-time visitors. Landmarks include glacial lakes and cirques on the high plateau, and the views extend toward Čvrsnica, Čabulja and the Neretva canyon. Sensible turn-around points are the saddles below the main summits, particularly if cloud, wind or thunderstorms approach. Mountain huts operate in the range and need to be booked in advance, since opening depends on season and volunteer staffing; hikers should confirm availability with the local mountaineering society before planning an overnight stay. Water is scarce on the karst, so about three litres per person should be carried, with springs used only if confirmed locally. Mine contamination from the 1990s conflict remains a recognised hazard in parts of the wider area, so hikers should stay strictly on marked paths.