Vrelo Bosne

Vrelo Bosne is a protected park at the source of the Bosna river in Ilidža, on the western edge of Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Clear, cold water wells from limestone springs at the foot of Mount Igman and forms a series of small lakes, streams and waterfalls, then flows towards the town and on through the country. The park was laid out in the Austro-Hungarian period, and a tree-lined avenue called Velika Aleja, about three kilometres long, links the Ilidža tram terminus to the springs. Visitors walk or ride in a horse-drawn cart along the avenue, passing Ilidža's thermal spa hotels, and enter the park, where gravel paths cross small wooden bridges over streams. Swans, ducks and trout swim in the clear water, and the green lawns, old plane trees and picnic areas make it a popular local day out. A small café and kiosks near the entrance sell drinks, snacks and trout. Visitors usually spend two to three hours including the walk from the tram. The best photo angles are at the source pool with the forested slope behind, and from the wooden bridges over the streams. Spring through early autumn mornings are best, with soft light and fewer visitors, while summer weekends fill with local families. Entry costs around 2 KM, with small extra charges for a horse cart or parking. The park is reached by tram line 3 from the centre to the Ilidža terminus, about 35 minutes, then a walk or cart ride along the avenue.