On the way from the Makarska Riviera back home to Bratislava we decided to make the return trip a bit more interesting. We had heard several times about the waterfalls on the Una River in Una National Park in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but we never had time to stop by.
What had we heard about them? That they are a smaller, but perhaps even more beautiful and above all quieter version of the Plitvice Lakes. Fewer tourists, less noise, more nature.
The decision was quick – we’ll stop. And since our dog Ibo was traveling with us, it was the perfect opportunity to combine pleasure with usefulness.
Martin Brod – the gateway to the waterfalls
Our route leads to a small village near the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina with Croatia called Martin Brod, which is one of the entry points to Una National Park. There are several parking options right in the village, but they are generally small parking areas.
At the time of our visit there were very few people here. However, it can be expected that on busier days parking may be problematic.
A little way from the parking lot there is a small footbridge for pedestrians and cyclists over the Una River. From it you can already enjoy nice views of the first cascades of the river.
We pay the entrance fee and set off on a short walk around the park area. Ibo is – since we are in a national park and heading into unfamiliar terrain – on a leash almost the whole time.
Veliki vodopad on the Una River
The trail runs just a short distance from the Una River. On the right we occasionally see other tourists having picnics by the river. After a few minutes we find ourselves at the main attraction of this part of the park – the cascades of Veliki vodopad on the Una River.
The place is truly picturesque. Several wooden walkways have been built here, allowing access to spots with unobstructed views of the system of cascades and smaller waterfalls.
Apart from us there are only a few tourists. The atmosphere is calm, without crowds and noise. Ibo, of course, couldn’t care less about the waterfalls – he is more interested in marking the trees than in natural wonders.
To the Bučnica mill and back
After a few minutes spent at the waterfalls we continue along the trail upstream and head towards the Bučnica mill. The route passes between local houses. Some offer accommodation, others small souvenir shops.
Everything feels unforced and modest. There is no pressure, no one is imposing anything on you. The surroundings offer several route variants and circuits, but at the mill we turn around and return to the car. After all, we still have a long way home.
Reluctantly, after about an hour spent at this place, we get into the car and continue the journey home.
Is it worth the stop?
If you ever pass by, definitely stop. The waterfalls on the Una River are an ideal place for a short break during a long transfer. They offer beautiful nature, a calmer atmosphere than more famous locations, and the chance to walk your dog in a truly interesting place.
For us it was a pleasant and easy stop that broke the monotony of the drive home and showed that lesser-known places can pleasantly surprise.
Facts about the Una Waterfalls
- Una River springs in Croatia near the village of Donja Suvaja and is approximately 212 kilometers long. The majority of its course runs through the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Una National Park was declared in 2008 and covers an area of approximately 19,800 hectares in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- The park is located in the Dinaric Alps region and its territory includes the upper course of the Una River and its tributary the Unac.
- Veliki vodopad in Martin Brod reaches a height of approximately 20 to 25 meters and is one of the most prominent waterfalls in the park.
- The area is characterized by travertine barriers and cascades formed by the deposition of limestone from exceptionally clean water.
- Una National Park is one of the less-visited protected areas in the region; it is visited annually by tens of thousands of visitors, which is significantly fewer than in the case of the Plitvice Lakes.
- Besides the waterfalls, the park offers opportunities for rafting, kayaking, fishing and hiking in a relatively well-preserved natural environment.