Filming a documentary for Transdinarica2

The Transdinarica2 project co-workers have made another long working trip along the Trans Dinarica Route, preparing a documentary which will further promote this route and places along it. More details in the text by Matevž Hribar:

We’re back on the road. And the feeling is... extraordinary! But also... familiar .

As some of you may know (thanks to everyone who responded to our newsletter), we are currently filming a short documentary as part of the #Transdinarica2 project, focusing on the impact of a cycling route spanning over 5,000 kilometers and eight countries

What’s new, and what has stayed the same?

Unlike during our first fieldwork, the new thing is that people now actually understand what we were talking about three or four years ago. They see you grinding your way up the climbs This is especially true for accommodation owners; while your typically brief stops might slightly lower their average length of stay, they certainly aren't complaining about it. They see your tired legs as you gratefully sit down at their tables. They see—and appreciate even more—the beauty of their own land through your eyes. Some, thank goodness, hope this means a few more cows and chickens might remain in the village (we didn't make that up; a local woman said it!). In short: the difference is that Trans Dinarica is leaving a mark.

What remains the same? The mountains that rises proudly above river valleys, rewarding your effort with stunning views. And the people remain the same, too; when you stop for more than just a quick greeting, they invite you in for water, tea, coffee, rakija, freshly boiled milk, and the 'kajmak' skimmed right off the top of that milk. These are wonderful people who—now that we are halfway through the journey—have not yet said a single bad word about the cyclists visiting their natural surroundings and their homes.

Thank you to everyone who understands and appreciates this, and who helps this story continue to unfold

Photos are from Zlatibor (Serbia), Žabljak (Montenegro) and Boračko Lake & Konjic (Bosnia and Herzegovina)