The Neretva River and its basin are home to a remarkable variety of lakes, ranging from remote glacial and karst lakes in the mountains to vast wetlands and artificial reservoirs created for hydroelectric power generation. Together, these lakes form an important part of the Neretva's natural and cultural landscape.
Natural lakes support exceptional biodiversity and provide habitats for numerous fish, amphibians, reptiles and more than 300 species of birds. Wetlands such as Hutovo Blato and Lake Kuti are internationally recognized for their ecological importance and attract nature lovers, birdwatchers and photographers from around the world.
Reservoirs built along the upper and middle course of the river, including Jablanica, Grabovica and Salakovac, have become prominent landscape features while also supplying renewable energy. Although artificial, they have developed into popular destinations for boating, swimming, fishing and outdoor recreation.
Whether hidden among limestone mountains, surrounded by Mediterranean wetlands or stretching through deep river canyons, the lakes of the Neretva Basin reveal another fascinating dimension of one of the Adriatic region's most beautiful rivers.
Visitors interested in the lakes of the Neretva Basin may also enjoy exploring Hutovo Blato Nature Park, one of Europe's most important wetland reserves, and the nearby Baćinska Lakes, a beautiful group of karst lakes located close to the Adriatic coast.