Welcome, wine-loving travelers, to an exciting journey through the picturesque landscapes of Croatia and Bosnia! Today, we embark on a unique expedition with none other than Samra Morris, the esteemed winemaker at Alma Rosa Winery in Solvang. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of her homeland and indulge in exquisite wines from charming family-owned wineries. From Sarajevo to Dubrovnik and everything in between, get ready to experience a trip like no other!
This is an edited version of an interview with Samra following her return from the trip. Conducted by Gail Sherman, Founder/CEO of Wine Lovers Travel:
Discovering the Enchanting Sarajevo
“As the Alma Rosa Winery group set foot in Sarajevo, the excitement was palpable. For me, this was a dream come true – sharing my roots with fellow wine enthusiasts. Sarajevo, a city like no other in Europe, offers a fascinating blend of four religions dating back centuries. Travelers were enchanted by the sight of a mosque standing beside an Orthodox church, next to a Catholic church with a synagogue nearby– a testament to harmonious coexistence of multiple faiths.
Growing up in Sarajevo, I had the privilege of experiencing the unique celebrations of all four religions. Sharing this enriching cultural experience with the group left everyone in awe, breaking stereotypes and fostering a deeper appreciation for diversity.
Bosnia’s Natural Beauty and Hedona Winery
As we journeyed through Bosnia, our group was awestruck by the lush greenery and untouched rivers that crisscrossed the landscape. The rivers’ clarity and drinkability astonished the visitors, who reveled in the refreshing experience of drinking right from these pristine waters.
One highlight of the trip was a visit to Hedona Winery, nestled in the hills of Sarajevo. The stunning panoramic view of the city combined with the warm hospitality of the winemaker left a lasting impression on everyone. Not to mention our visit down to the cellar where we were surprised by the old bottled covered with cobwebs! A delightful multi-course meal paired with intriguing wines made this visit truly unforgettable.
Enchanting Croatia: Market Tour and Oyster Delight
The adventure continued as our group arrived in Split, Croatia. A walking and tasting tour of the bustling market offered a delightful glimpse into the vibrant Croatian culinary scene. A sumptuous lunch followed, showcasing the locals’ generous and welcoming nature. Probably more food than we should have had, but food in Croatia is more than nourishment. It’s a display of hospitality and love.
Another of the trip’s highlights was a visit to Mali Ston, where we indulged in freshly harvested oysters and mussels harvested moments earlier, right from the sea’s perfectly cold water. The experience of savoring these delicacies, on the half shell for the oysters and steamed for the mussels, minutes after being caught left everyone saying these were the best they’d ever eaten.
A Day on a Family Farm in Konavle
Stepping away from the wineries, our group embarked on a different kind of adventure. A visit to a family farm in Konavle introduced us to a more rustic and organic way of life. Picking vegetables and fruits, making our own bread, and preparing a meal together provided an intimate connection with nature and the local way of living.
The genuine hospitality of the farm owners, who treated us like family, created cherished memories and a sense of belonging. It was a welcome break from the wineries and a reminder that travel is about embracing diverse experiences.
Memories at Bibich Winery
The journey wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Bibich Winery, renowned as Anthony Bourdain’s favorite winery in Croatia. The group enjoyed tasting and pairing unique wines while savoring the scenic ambiance of the outdoor seating area. From the picturesque olive trees to the charming cork-filled decorative bottles, every detail at Bibich Winery was picture-perfect.
Throughout the trip, the winemakers and hosts displayed unparalleled warmth and generosity, sharing their stories and wines with unreserved enthusiasm.
Embracing Brač Island: A Summer Haven
For me, Brač Island holds a special place in my heart, as I spent many summers here while growing up. Our group relished the laid-back atmosphere of the island. With a tinge of nostalgia, I wished that we’d had more time on the island to fully immerse ourselves in its beauty. We didn’t get to do all the activities I’d loved as a girl, so there was a lot of talk about returning in the future to enjoy kayaking, lounging on the beaches and savoring delectable meals at quaint restaurants.
Nevertheless, the trip left everyone with a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
What’s next?
Samra closed the interview by saying that she’s certain that the memories created with our Alma Rosa Winery’s trip will remain etched in the hearts of our travelers. From enchanting Sarajevo to the bountiful Croatian markets, and the picturesque landscapes of Bosnia and Croatia, this trip was truly unforgettable.
Samra’s passion for her homeland and her warm hospitality enriched the experience, turning it into a once-in-a-lifetime journey for the wine enthusiasts who joined her. The trip reminded us that travel is not just about visiting places, but also about embracing cultures, sharing stories, and forming connections that transcend borders.
If you’re a wine lover and an adventurer at heart, a trip like this with all of the winemakers who host a Wine Lovers Travel journey is an experience you don’t want to miss. So, pack your bags and get ready to raise a glass to unforgettable memories on your next wine trip, be it through Bosnia and Croatia or any of the other amazing destinations we visit!