An epic Dubrovnik journey that ditches the crowds

Key Points:

• Europe's newest Camino pilgrim trail, the Camino Dubrovnik – Međugorje, opened in March and offers a seven-stage, 145km route from Dubrovnik, Croatia, to Međugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina, following historic trade and pilgrimage paths.
• The trail aims to alleviate overcrowding in Dubrovnik's Old Town by encouraging sustainable tourism and guiding visitors through rural areas and historical sites, including medieval water systems and Mount Srđ.
• The route highlights Dubrovnik's rich history, from its time as an independent maritime republic to its experiences during the Homeland War in the 1990s, with stops like Fort Imperial and the Homeland War Museum.
• Locals and guides emphasize the trail's cultural and spiritual significance, including the Way of the Cross on Mount Srđ, and praise its scenic views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands.
• The initiative reflects a broader effort to slow down fast-paced modern life and reconnect people with nature, history, and the region's heritage through walking the Camino Dubrovnik.