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Gacko Polje
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valley
Gacko Polje is an extensive karst field in eastern Herzegovina, situated at an average altitude of about 940 meters above sea level. It is one of the highest poljes in the Dinaric Alps, spanning an area of roughly 57 square kilometers. Surrounded by the massive mountain ranges of Volujak, Lebršnik, and Bjelašnica (Herzegovina), the field is characterized by extreme climatic conditions with long, cold winters. The hydrological network is dominated by the Mušnica River, which flows through the field and disappears into the region's ponors. Near the town of Gacko lies one of the country's largest brown coal deposits, utilized since 1983 by a major thermal power plant that has permanently altered the landscape. Despite the industrial presence, Gacko Polje provides vast grazing lands traditionally used for livestock farming, particularly for the Gacko cattle breed. The geomorphological features of the field, including its dolines and cave systems, are of great interest to geologists. The historical importance of the field as a pass between the Adriatic and the interior is reflected in numerous archaeological finds from various eras.
- Location: Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Top sights: Gacko · Radio Gacko · Pridvorica, Gacko
- Nearby: Sutjeska National Park (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 2 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 9 | 4 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 134 | 131 | 121 | 93 | 89 | 83 | 52 | 49 | 104 | 124 | 162 | 152 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The vast karst field is seamlessly intersected by the main regional highway, providing direct and straightforward access right from the town of Gacko. Drivers can simply follow the completely paved roads across the flat expanse.
Best season
Late spring to early summer is typically the most pretty time when the expansive meadows are incredibly green and bursting with wildflowers. Winters across this high-altitude plain are known to be surprisingly freezing and very snowy.
Terrain & paths
This extremely large natural depression consists mostly of remarkably flat agricultural land and grassy plains, entirely encircled by high, imposing mountains. Walking is entirely undemanding across the extremely flat valley floor.
What to bring
For a standard, easy visit to the valley, everyday comfortable walking shoes and casual outdoor attire are absolutely more than sufficient. A solid windbreaker jacket is highly recommended due to the sudden, strong mountain gusts.
Parking
Finding a place to park is extremely straightforward directly within the town of Gacko, providing a very convenient starting point. Alternatively, visitors can safely pull over onto the wide grassy shoulders located along the rural roads.
Safety
While the flat terrain is quite safe, you must always remain very vigilant of fast-moving local traffic if walking closely along the highway. Additionally, be fully aware of large herds of free-roaming livestock operating in the fields.
Time needed
Simply driving smoothly through this photogenic field and making a few brief stops for photographs will generally take between one and two hours. Opting for longer exploratory walks can easily extend your trip to a relaxed half-day excursion.
Geography
Facts
- Gacko Polje is situated at an elevation between 930 and 960 meters.
- The total area of the karst basin is approximately 57 square kilometers.
- The Gacko thermal power plant produces about one-third of Republika Srpska's electricity.
- The Mušnica River sinks into ponors located at the edge of the field.
- The average temperature in January is frequently below freezing.
- Gacko is famous for its specific cattle breed, the 'Gacko cattle'.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Gacko Polje (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Gacko Polje?
A vast karst field in eastern Herzegovina, known for livestock farming and its thermal power plant.
Which town is located in this field?
The town of Gacko is the administrative center of the region.
What dominates the landscape?
The vast grasslands are overlooked by the prominent chimney of the Gacko thermal power plant.
Are there natural attractions there?
The Klinje reservoir is a nice destination for fishing and relaxation.
What is the climate like in Gacko?
Gacko has a cool mountain climate and is often one of the coldest places in Bosnia.
Gacko Polje: where is it located?
Gacko Polje is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Gacko Polje: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gacko, Radio Gacko, Pridvorica, Gacko.
Gacko Polje: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gacko Polje: why is it worth visiting?
Gacko Polje is an extensive karst field in eastern Herzegovina, situated at an average altitude of about 940 meters above sea level.
Nearby cities
Lukavica
Lukavica is an administrative center in Republika Srpska, which forms a large part of East Sarajevo.
East Sarajevo
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Briješće
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Ilidža
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Konjic
Konjic is located on the Neretva River, roughly halfway between Sarajevo and Mostar.
Foča
Foča is located in the east of the country at the confluence of the Drina and Ćehotina rivers.
Bileća
Bileća is located in eastern Herzegovina on the artificial Lake Bileća.
Kravica Waterfall
A spectacular natural phenomenon on the Trebižat River, often referred to as the 'Little Niagara' of Bosnia.
Ljubuški
Ljubuški is located in the heart of Herzegovina and is famous for the Kravica waterfalls.
Široki Brijeg
Široki Brijeg is the administrative center of the West Herzegovina Canton.
Vogošća
Vogošća is a municipality north of Sarajevo and a key industrial suburb of the capital.
Tihovići
Tihovići is a small settlement near the capital Sarajevo.
Čapljina
Čapljina is located in southern Herzegovina at the confluence of four rivers.
Stolac
Stolac is located in southern Herzegovina on the Bregava River.
Pale
Pale is located east of Sarajevo at the foot of the Jahorina Mountains.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Sarajevo City Hall
Built in the Pseudo-Moorish style, the Vijećnica is one of the most magnificent buildings from the Austro-Hungarian period in Sarajevo.
Hrastov Do Necropolis
Hrastov Do is a significant site for medieval Stećci.
Gacko Thermal Power Plant
The Gacko Thermal Power Plant is located in Eastern Herzegovina and utilizes the surrounding lignite deposits.
Gacko Old Town
Gacko was an important regional center.
Volujak
Volujak is a mountain range on the border between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro.