When you think of Croatia, the first that comes to your mind are probably the beautiful towns of
Dubrovnik, Split or Rovinj, but there is so much more to see and experience. If you are thinking about spending your next holiday in the northern part of the Croatian coast, or you have already booked a villa in
the Kvarner region- we can definitely say that this was or is a great decision!
Not only because of the amazing coast and the many
beautiful towns that you can visit, but also because of the
terrific hinterland, or to put it correctly,
the vicinity of a majestic mountainous region called Gorski Kotar.
This
region spreads from Rijeka to the inland, all the way
to the Slovenian boarder and up to the town of Karlovac. Most of the region is covered with a
lush green vegetation, and therefore it is often chosen as a weekend destination by many
Croats who wish to recharge their batteries.
But it is also an
ideal spot for hikers among you and those who would like to make an
active trip to change the lazy beach life during their holidays. Therefore we have made a list of interesting and stunningly beautiful mountainous locations to visit.
Bjelolasica
Bjelolasica is
the highest part of of Gorski Kotar, with its highest peak Kula at 1534 m.
It is an
ideal destination for mountain climbers, cyclists, and even ski enthusiasts during the winter.
Thanks to its geological shape, being a grassy plateau, it is ideal for all kinds of sport all year long. This is also why there the
Croatian Olympic center was established. So if you would like to keep yourself fit during your holidays and to profit from the fresh mountain air, Bjelolasica is the place to go. And the best of all, it is just a short drive from the coast.
Risnjak
Risnjak is
the second highest mountain in Gorski Kotar, and due to its lush vegetation and rich fauna, it is
called ”The great green heart of Croatia". Risnjak owns its name most probably to the
Croatian word ris, meaning
lynx. This, of course indicates,
that this is their natural habitat. There is also the
source of the river Kupa, which is a truly magic place to see with its amazing colours. So if you are staying in one of our villas in the Kvarner region, the Risnjak mountain and its National park are definitely worth a visit.
Samarske stijene and Bijele stijene (White rocks and Pack-saddle rocks)
Samarske stijene and Bijele stijene
located south of the mountain Bjelolasica. They are natural phenomena that will leave you breathless. Both of those areas are a
Strictly protected natural reserve, a cluster of
limestone rock formations that are intertwined by rich woods. Due to its geo-morphological attributes and difficult access, they have been
unknown to scientists and mountaineers up until the end of the 19th century. This area requires more attention from climbers but it will be an unforgettable experience, for sure.
But don’t think that this is all Gorski Kotar has to offer, there is so much more that you can find on your way to the mountain top!
And if you still haven’t found your perfect villa in Kvarner, this
link might help:)
Sanda Kesedzic
28.04.2020
MY ISTRIA GUIDE
