Zeleni vir i Vražji prolaz
The Zeleni vir area is known for its unusual geological formations. The name means “Green Pool”, and refers to the emerald pool formed by a little waterfall gushing from an opening high up in a rock face. The second attraction in this area is Vražji prolaz – or the Devil’s Pass. This is an 800m long canyon carved out of the rock by a wild, foaming stream. You can walk along galleries and bridges the whole length of the canyon, and at the end you’ll come to a cave, “Muževa hiša”, with stalagmites, stalactites and a small underground lake. Zeleni vir is near the little town of Skrad, just off the A6 motorway (Zagreb direction).
NP Risnjak
Glowering above the city of Rijeka, in the densely forested Gorski Kotar region, are the primeval forests, mountain meadows and karst formed peaks of Risnjak National Park. This range of mountains, from which can be viewed the Julian Alps and the Adriatic is by far the wildest and most untouched in the country – mostly thanks to the somewhat inhospitable climate; it has an average temperature of 12.60 in July. The park is a haven for deer, bears, wildcats and lynx (ris) – from which the park takes its name. Wolves and wild boar also put in an occasional appearance.The Information office for the park is in Crni Lug, a small village that perches at 724m above sea-level (no mean feat with the sea around 25km away) and 12km from Delnice – the main regional town. From the villages of Razloge or Kupari, small winding paths can be followed up to the source of the Kupa river. From the jagged karst the water wells up into a lake and then tumbles downwards through the ‘valley of the butterflies’.
Kamačnik Canyon
Kamačnik is a river and a canyon in Gorski kotar region, in the Dinaric Alps. The river is only 3 km long, after which it discharges into a much larger Dobra river. The geomorphological features of karst in the area, along with the well-preserved watercourse and the surrounding flora and fauna make the Kamačnik canyon ecologically extremely important. A walking trail with wooden bridges and galleries runs along the crystal-clear river through a rich vegetation and wild life. There is a newly set educational-didactic trail, which explains the natural features of the protected area. You will also come across the Pan Trail, a series of five sound installations that will complement the unique experience of the pristine nature in the canyon. Gong, Bear's marimba, Doormouse's bells, Deer's horn and Brook organ are set along the track for you to test your music skills and release an inner artist within. The path is very diverse, so no need to rush. Take enough time to inhale the fresh air, clear the mind and let your eyes fill up with greenness. At the end of the path, you will reach the spring of Kamačnik. It is at least 95 meters deep which makes it one of the deepest water springs in Croatia. Here, next to the spring, soak your feet in the cold stream water, it will serve as a perfect refreshment after the hike. On return, stop at the Kamačnik Bistro which offers homemade dishes in a beautiful setting above the river estuary.
Photo by Foto studio Magadalena
Golubinjak park - forest
A perfect place for spending a day in nature with family and friends. Golubinjak is located near the main road so it is easy to find and surprisingly peaceful despite the proximity of the highway. Beautiful large meadow at the entrance to the Park-forest, surrounded by tall trees that rise high above the white cliffs will simply take your breath away. In 1955 the 51 hectare of Golubinjak area was declared a protected park-forest. The park-forests in this area emerged on the karst relief. Because of this, they feature not only forest vegetation, but also a variety of karst phenomena. Golubinjak Park-Forest with its caves, rocks, sinkholes, stone bridges and other interesting formations, is a typical example.There is a walking trail through the forest which will take you to the Dove Cave and the Ice Cave whose refreshing temperatures definitely justify its name. At the beginning of the trail, you will come across the Queen of the Forest – the largest fir tree of Gorski kotar which is over 200 years old, with the height reaching 37 m which truly deserves the crown.
At the entrance to the park there is a multipurpose grass-playground which is ideal for the outdoor games. You can also rent out a bbq area and have a fun day in the wild. Those who are not in the mood to do their own grilling may opt for specialties of the Gorski kotar cuisine served at the Park’s catering facility.
Gorski kotar Tourist Board Archive
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