Una National Park represents a unique natural entity in this part of Europe, essential for preserving overall biological diversity.
Located in the far western part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, within the area of Bihać, the park encompasses the valley areas of the Una and Unac rivers, along with the orographic slopes of the Plješevica, Grmeč, and Osječenica mountains. Covering a total area of 19.800 hectares, this region stands as a distinct natural unit of great ecological significance.
Stretching along the border with Croatia, Una
National Park is only about 30 kilometers from Plitvice Lakes National Park.
The nearest border crossings to the park and the city of Bihać are:
·
Užljebić
Border Crossing
·
Izačić
– Ličko Petrovo Selo Border Crossing
·
Strmica
Border Crossing
The first must-visit destination when exploring Una National Park is one of its true gems - Štrbački buk. With a height of 24,5 meters, it is the most spectacular waterfall in the park, formed through tectonic shifts and the accumulation of travertine deposits. It captivates visitors with its power and beauty in all seasons. The water cascading over the travertine soothes the mind, clears thoughts, and brings you closer to nature.
Orašac, along with Kulen Vakuf, is one of the largest settlements within Una National Park. It is located just before Entrance No. 3 (Ćelije), which leads to the Štrbački buk visitor zone and its waterfall.
Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes, Orašac is a hub of local small-scale producers. Honey and honey-based products, fruit juices, brandies, fresh fruits, and vegetables grown in pristine air, are always available for tasting. Beyond its natural beauty, Orašac also has cultural and historical significance. The ruins of the Old Town of Orašac, built between 1703 and 1730 during the Ottoman period, stand as a testament to the region’s strategic importance. Perched atop a steep hill above the settlement, this historical fortress offers a glimpse into the past.
The heart of Una National Park, Kulen Vakuf, is the largest settlement within the park and a historic crossroads that has attracted travelers for centuries. No matter which direction you take through the stunning landscapes of the park, Kulen Vakuf is a place where you must take a break.
Originally named Kasaba Džisr-i-Kebir (Turkish for ''Great Bridge''), the town was founded during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I (1603–1617) with the construction of his mosque. In the 18th century, it was unofficially renamed after its benefactor (vakıf) as Palanka Mahmut-Paša Kulenović, and in the 19th century, it adopted its present-day name, Kulen Vakuf.
Following the Treaty of Karlowitz in 1699, Bosnian governor Halil Pasha expanded and fortified the town. Built on an artificially created island along the left bank of the Una River, the settlement was strategically enclosed by the river and an artificial canal, which still exists today. In addition to its solid defensive walls, the town also had an extensive protective combat zone.
Overlooking the town on the left side of the Una River and its tributary, the Ostrovica fortress - a medieval and Ottoman stronghold - dominates the landscape. On the right side, the remnants of the Ottoman fortress Havala are still visible. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Kulen Vakuf was constructed between 1603 and 1613 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I, after whom it is named. The mosque is distinctive for having shops and passageways beneath it on all four sides, with entrances accessible via stone staircases. Although it was destroyed during the most recent war, it was faithfully reconstructed in the late 1990s according to its original dimensions (12 × 17 m). However, unlike the original structure, which was built from hewn stone, the reconstruction used brick.
Alongside Štrbački Buk, Martin Brod is one of the most captivating sites within Una National Park. The village is adorned with long waterfalls and cascades, showcasing the park’s extraordinary natural beauty. Among them, Milančev buk stands out due to its striking location, strength, and mesmerizing appearance. Martin Brod is also home to the Rmanj Monastery, an Orthodox monastery built from Una’s characteristic travertine stone in the 15th century. The area is known for the Unac Canyon and traditional watermills used for grinding grain, some of which are integrated into family homes through which the river quite literally flows. Welcome to a place of abundant water treasures, where time leaves its mark on every step.
