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Gorski kotar

Discover Gorski Kotar

Welcome to Gorski kotar, a stunning destination located in the heart of Croatia. Here you will find abundant natural beauty and adventure that captivate your senses. From breathtaking mountain views to lush forests, pristine lakes and crystal-clear rivers, Gorski kotar is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway or an active vacation.

Gorski kotar offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a tranquil escape or an adrenaline-filled adventure, this region has it all. Explore the fascinating scenery by taking a hike through the mountains or visiting one of the many castles scattered throughout the area.

Enjoy unique and authentic dishes of Gorski kotar inspired by nature, such as wild game and fresh fish from local rivers. Relax in beautiful holiday houses surrounded by lush forests and enjoy the fresh air while breathing in the beauty of this enchanting destination.

Many tourists are still not aware of how much Gorski kotar has to offer. This Croatia`s hidden gem is perfect for all nature lovers who love to explore and enjoy nature off the beaten track.

What to see and do in Gorski kotar?

Gorski Kotar, a stunning mountainous region between Karlovac and Rijeka in Croatia, offers visitors a unique experience of nature, culture, and history, with lots of sights, natural beauties and exciting activities.

From hiking trails that lead through dense forests to crystal-clear rivers and streams, there are plenty of activities to enjoy here. In addition to outdoor activities like hiking and biking, you can also participate in bird watching or just relax by one of the many lakes or rivers.

And there are a lot of sights in Gorski kotar you can explore & discover. Here we bring you the ones you shouldn`t miss while visiting Gorski kotar.

Explore Risnjak National park

Risnjak National Park

One of the main attractions in Gorski Kotar is Risnjak National Park. This park offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most spectacular landscapes in Croatia.

Risnjak is also home to three large beasts – the wolf, bear and lynx – as well as chamois and many other mammals. 114 species of birds live in Risnjak National Park, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.

There are also several historical sites located within the park that offer insight into Croatia’s past. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to take in some breathtaking scenery, National park Risnjak has it all.

The park's trails range from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone. You can take a leisurely stroll through the woods or challenge yourself with more demanding hikes. We invite you to explore its many trails with a local guide.

If you want a unique and unforgettable experience, a guided tour of Risnjak National Park in Gorski Kotar is a perfect choice. With a local guide in Risnjak National park, you will find out many interesting facts and discover spots of unique beauties.

Enjoy rafting on the Kupa river

Rafting on the Kupa river

Whether staying in Gorski kotar or on a nearby coast or islands, rafting on the Kupa river is an excellent holiday activity.

The Kupa River originates from a turquoise well, creating a tranquil lake surrounded by stunning scenery.

It flows through the Valley of Butterflies, an isolated area that hides rare butterfly species.

Witnessing the rocky canyon it creates is a spectacular view.

Kayaking and rafting down the Kupa River is an incredible experience, as you take in nature's beauty while enjoying the ride's thrill.

Rafting down this river gives you an opportunity to explore its hidden secrets while having fun on the rapids. It's an adventure like no other and will surely leave you with unforgettable memories!

If you are on a family vacation, your kids will love this unique rafting adventure. Rafting is a good idea if your children are 8+. If they are younger, consider kayaking. It is calmer and also a fantastic, unforgettable family experience.

Kamačnik and Devil's Passage - stunning canyons of dramatic beauty

Canyon Devil's Passage (Vražji prolaz)

Kamačnik and Devil's Passage (Vražji prolaz) are among the most beautiful canyons in Croatia.

Kamačnik is a protected landscape near the mountain range Velika Kapela and Dobra river, with gorgeous watercourses formed of Jurassic limestone, full of waterfalls and small lakes. It is the perfect getaway for those looking for peace and quiet, surrounded by calming views and sounds of water.

When rain or snow melt, the scenery is made even more spectacular due to the vast amounts of water that accumulate.

Devil's Passage (Vražji prolaz) is another stunning canyon, described as Dante's path to Hell due to its dramatic beauty. It is located in Gorski kotar near Skrad. Devil's Passage is a narrow canyon with steep and rocky walls, where Jasle brook churns and foams.

The area offers plenty of hiking trails. Visitors can also explore caves located along the canyon walls. With its breathtaking scenery and abundance of wildlife, Devil's Passage is worth visiting!

Hiking in Gorski kotar

Another exciting site in this significant landscape near Devil's Passage is Zeleni vir (Green Vortex), which features a cave spring and waterfall that swoops down from seventy meters high rock. This stunning natural feature makes Zeleni vir a trendy destination for tourists who admire its beauty and take pictures of its unique scenery.

There is also a power plant, "Munjara," built in 1921 and still in operation.

The combination of Devil's Passage (Vražji prolaz) and Zeleni vir creates a truly remarkable landscape that will leave any visitor in awe.

Devil's Passage and Zeleni Vir are great destinations for a relaxed and exciting family trip to nature. We invite you to explore Devil's Passage (Vražji prolaz) and Zeleni vir it with our local guide specialized in heritage interpretation - it will be a fantastic experience for the whole family.

Visit unique lakes surrounded by forests

Lake Bajer in Gorski kotar

The reservoir lakes Lokvarsko and Bajer fit perfectly into the mountainous landscape of Gorski kotar. Located near the Risnjak mountain, these lakes are surrounded by lush forests and provide a perfect spot for outdoor activities such as picnics, horse-riding, canoeing, surfing, swimming and more.

The crystal clear waters of the lake make it an ideal place to enjoy nature and enjoy the area's beauty.

Fishing enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Lokvarsko lake is home to some of the largest trout in the world.

Dreamy castles in Gorski kotar

The Zrinski-Frankopan Castle in Severin na Kupa

The Zrinski-Frankopan Castle in Severin na Kupa, although dilapidated, is still an impressive reminder of the Frankopan noble family. It is an excellent example of how these castles have stood the test of time despite adversity.

Visitors to this area can also explore other castles that belonged to the Zrinski family. For example, Petar Zrinski's castle in Brod na Kupa is today a natural history museum. In the Zrinski castle in Čabar, you can see what the forges used to look like.

The castles of Gorski kotar are witnesses of the history and culture of this region. If you are looking for something even more ancient, you can visit the Prezid, which hides an ancient Roman wall - the remains of the classic Roman limes.

Exploring these castles and ruins will give you a unique insight into this part of Croatia's past.

Spectacular caves of Gorski kotar 

Vrelo cave in Gorski kotar

Caves in karst regions, like in Gorski kotar, hide spectacular shapes.

In Gorski kotar, be sure to visit the Lokvarka, Vrelo and Bukovac caves.

One of the largest Croatian caves, the Lokvarka cave is a place of extraordinary beauty. It is located near the village Lokve, as the name suggests. It is a unique natural attraction you should visit.

Lokvarka is full of spectacular cave formations, with a year-round temperature of 6.5-8°C. The cave has been explored since 1884, and is estimated to be around 4 million years old. It is 275 m deep, and the nearby stream floods the cave in the rainy season.

The cave Vrelo near Fužine is another impressive Croatian cave dating back 3.5-4 million years. Although it is only 300 meters long, it still hides many wonders that make it worth visiting.

Inside, you can find an underground lake surrounded by beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, and other interesting rock formations. In addition to its beauty, Vrelo is also known for being completely flat, without steps, which makes it accessible for wheelchairs.

The Bukovac Cave (Hirčeva špilja) near Lokve is an excellent archaeological site. It hides traces of prehistoric people and a cave bear. Namely, Gorski Kotar has been the home of man since prehistoric times.

How to reach Gorski kotar

Lake Bajer in Fužine

Gorski kotar is easily accessible from the island of Krk.

You can reach Gorski Kotar by highway in less than an hour. The highway connects the main cities, but if you want to explore the area in more detail and prefer to travel slowly, you should take one of the smaller local roads.

These roads will take you through stunning scenery but can also be quite challenging due to their mountain bends and narrow passages. Fortunately, these roads are usually quiet, so there won't be too much traffic.

We encourage you to discover the Lujzijana road. Lujzijana is a historic road built in Croatia between 1803 and 1811 and is 141 km long.

It was one of the most modern roads of its time, and its purpose was to connect the northern and southern parts of Croatia. Lujzijana connects the cities of Rijeka and Karlovac.

The road is an important part of Croatian cultural heritage because travelers, traders and armies passed through it for centuries.

The Louisiana road is still in operation and has been paved and modernized. The road is also well maintained to ensure that it remains safe for travelers.

Despite its age, Lujzijana is still important for Croatian culture and history. It serves as a reminder of the country's past, while at the same time providing a vital connection between different parts of Croatia. It also provides you with an authentic experience of Gorski Kotar.

Gorski Kotar is a beautiful region in Croatia, and driving through it can be a fantastic experience. This area can be covered with snow during winter. So, if you are exploring the Gorski Kotar region in winter, prepare for winter conditions.

A revitalizing holiday in amazing nature

Vacation in Gorski kotar

Gorski Kotar is the perfect destination for those seeking to escape the city life's hustle and bustle. Here, you can find accommodation that provides a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Whether it’s a hotel, apartment or private cottage, you can rest assured that your stay will be comfortable and relaxing. The gentle murmur of the forest and birds chirping will lull you to sleep each night, providing a much-needed break from the noise of everyday life.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly rooms & apartments to luxurious holiday houses and hotels, so there is something for all budgets and preferences. With its amazing natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, Gorski Kotar is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a revitalizing holiday in beautiful nature.

Gorski kotar local delicacies

Local cuisine of Gorski kotar

Gorski Kotar is a region in Croatia that offers a unique and delicious culinary experience. The local cuisine is based on traditional recipes, using ingredients sourced from the hills and forests of the area. 

Venison specialties and other local delicacies such as smoked meats, cheeses, mushrooms, and wild herbs are prevalent. Visitors to Gorski Kotar can enjoy a variety of dishes prepared with these ingredients, including stews, soups, casseroles, and grilled meats.

One of the most popular dishes in the region is blackberry strudel – it’s worth trying!

And don’t forget to try the local delicacy of frog legs if you visit Lokve or Fužine – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

Visitors to Gorski Kotar can enjoy a range of restaurants offering an authentic taste of the region. From rustic taverns serving hearty meals to fine dining establishments with exquisite menus, there's something for everyone.

Each restaurant has its unique atmosphere and charm, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the region's culture truly. With a richness of flavor and locally-sourced beverages, visitors can rediscover long-lost flavors while enjoying a memorable meal.

Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or an evening out with friends, Gorski Kotar has a lot to offer!

Gorski kotar awaits you. So, come and enjoy!

Nature in Gorski kotar

In Gorski kotar, you will experience every possible shade of green. This mountainous area, affluent in forests and water sources, will delight you with its vantage points, hiking trails, caves, mountain peaks and picturesque places.

Here you will enjoy magnificent nature, clean mountain air, beautiful landscapes, sleepy castles, and mountain delicacies - gifts of nature.

Gorski kotar is not only an area that connects the sea with the interior of Croatia. It is a slightly undiscovered region of exceptional beauty that provides plenty of experience for a day trip and a multi-day stay.

Gorski kotar indeed has something for everyone! Check out some of the exciting activities available in Gorski kotar.

You can also discover Gorski Kotar on the three-day self-drive trip "Gorski Kotar - 50 Shades of Green". On this trip through Gorski Kotar, you can enjoy carefully selected experiences in Gorski Kotar at your own pace.

Find out more about picturesque towns and villages in Gorski kotar worth visiting in the section below. Discover Gorski Kotar and enjoy it!

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Gorski Kotar destinations

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