Ograde and Ubla belong to the same local community, Zubci, whose seat is in Grab. When planning a trip, it helps to distinguish between the surrounding area's main attractions: the Orjen massif is known for its varied landscapes, while Vjetrenica offers an underground natural world. Churches, fortresses, a river and regional foods round out these highlights.
Getting Your Bearings and the Landscape
A specific landmark is the cemetery beside the Church of Sveta Petka in Grab. It lies in the Zubci field, right next to the road. If you travel from Trebinje via Tuli, you will pass it on the left, 1,000 metres before Grab. Families from Ograde are among those who still use the cemetery today. Its significance therefore lies both in helping visitors find their way locally and in its ongoing connection to the area's families.
The Orjen massif is part of the Mediterranean biogeographical region and covers about 18,156 hectares. Forests, grassland, mountain pastures and meadows shape the landscape, as do caves. The caves are not open to the public. In the wider area around Ograde, Vjetrenica is a different natural highlight: it is a protected natural monument and a tourist destination. Its explored underground passages extend for about 6,700 metres. Wide passages and halls, sinter formations, lakes, several waterfalls and permanent streams shape the cave. The two natural attractions therefore differ: the Orjen is known for its varied landscape, while Vjetrenica is distinguished by its underground formations.
Churches, Fortresses and Historic Traces
The Monastery of Svetog Đorđa on Bravenik was built in the first half of the 13th century. Today, it remains an active brotherhood with an active monastic and liturgical life. The Church of Svetog Đorđa serves as the parish church for the entire Zubci plateau. If you would like to include a visit to the monastery in your trip, check the specific liturgical times in advance.
Fortress Strač also combines history with far-reaching views: it is considered one of the largest Austro-Hungarian fortifications in the Balkans. From there, you can see Zupci, Petrovo Polje, the Trebinje forest and Trebinje. Vučija Bridge stands on the site of a former Roman road that led from Dubrovnik to Montenegro; it is thought to date from the 13th century. Another historic connection belongs to local tradition: Kaluđerska Cave is associated with monks who fled to the mountains to the east after the monastery was destroyed.
Excursions, the River and Regional Traditions
The Ćiro Trail follows the former route of a narrow-gauge railway through landscapes dotted with old railway stations, tunnels and stone bridges. Those interested in historic railway lines will find a different way to explore the area's history here than at its churches and fortresses: the traces can be seen along a former rail line. Ubla has an excursion area offering opportunities to enjoy nature and take trips; recreational winter sports are also available there. The event “Iz ustanka nicaše sloboda” is traditionally held in Ubla, preserving folk traditions and customs. If you would like to plan your trip around the event, check the date in advance.
The Sušica River is suitable for fishing and swimming; there are bathing spots and a campsite along its banks. So, as well as mountains and cultural attractions, the surrounding area offers a river landscape for waterside leisure. For a taste of the food culture, explore the regional products: Herzeg House offers cheese, pršut, honey and wine. Trebinje's Green Market also offers regional products and is a tourist attraction. Herzeg House focuses on specific types of products, while the market offers a regional selection.
Discover more destinations: Staro Rudo, Jahorina, Lukavica, Kotor Varoš, Laminci Sređani, Doboj, Bileća, Foča.
For the wider travel overview: Republika Srpska.
