Gorski Kotar, located in the heart of Croatia, represents a true pearl of untouched nature and peace. As the green lungs of Croatia, this area offers an exceptional combination of dense forests, high mountain peaks and clear waterways, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking for an escape from the daily stress and noise of urban life.

In the heart of this green paradise is the Risnjak Nature Park, one of the most beautiful and valuable natural gems in Croatia. The park encompasses diverse ecosystems that are home to various plant and animal species, including rare ones such as the lynx, after which the park is named. Walking and hiking through Risnjak offer not only physical challenge but also spiritual satisfaction, where every step reveals new charms of the wilderness.

The Vrelo cave, known for its impressive beauty and ease of access, is a must-see for visitors. This cave, located at the source of the Kupica River, enchants with its turquoise clear water and fascinating calcite decorations that bear witness to millennia of geological development. A visit to the Vrelo cave provides a unique insight into the underground world and offers cooling during hot summer days.

Further on, Gorski kotar also hides Zeleni Vir, a beautiful place where water tumbles down the rocks forming a waterfall, and a forest path leads to the spectacular Vražji prolaz canyon. This natural attraction is perfect for adventure and photography lovers, where they can explore and enjoy the dramatic scenes that nature has to offer here.

In addition to these great natural attractions, Gorski Kotar offers many other activities. For fishing enthusiasts, numerous clean lakes and rivers, such as Lake Lokvar, are ideal for sport fishing. Cyclists and pedestrians can enjoy the many marked trails that pass through picturesque landscapes, providing an opportunity for an active holiday in nature.

During the winter, Gorski Kotar transforms into a true winter idyll. Ski areas such as Bjelolasica and Platak offer excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding, while snowy landscapes invite sledding and walks in the snow. In addition, traditional winter festivals and events further enrich the tourist offer, allowing visitors to experience local culture and customs.

The cultural aspect of Gorska Kotar is also rich and varied. Numerous old country houses, ethnic collections and museums, such as the Museum of Forestry and Hunting in Kupari, provide an insight into the historical and cultural development of the region. Traditional festivals like "Gorski kotar Fest" celebrate local culture, art and gastronomy, where visitors can taste local products like honey, cheese and brandy.

The offer of accommodation in Gorski kotar is diverse, from luxury hotels to rustic mountain houses and camps, offering something for everyone. Regardless of whether you come looking for adventure, peace or cultural enrichment, Gorski Kotar offers an authentic experience that combines nature, history and modern tourism.

Every corner of Gorska Kotar offers unique stories and experiences. I invite you to discover these stories, feel the peace that this region offers and experience its countless beauties. Gorski Kotar is not just a destination, but a place where nature speaks, and we have the opportunity to listen.

The second part of our journey through Gorski Kotar takes us to the heart of its cultural and historical heritage, where tradition and modernity intertwine, creating an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Gorski kotar is not only a natural paradise, but also a place where history lives on through its architecture and cultural manifestations. The traditional architecture of Gorska Kotar is reflected in the old wooden houses with stone foundations and shingled roofs, which gives a special charm to the small villages scattered throughout the region. Preserved ethnic houses, which have been turned into museums or are used for tourist purposes, provide an insight into the way of life that was once prevalent in this area. One such place is the Etno house "Bitoraj", which offers visitors an authentic experience of Gorska Kotar through the display of old customs, tools and lifestyle.

The cultural scene of Gorska Kotar is rich in numerous festivals and events that take place throughout the year, attracting visitors from all over Croatia and abroad. Gorski kotar Fest is one of the most famous, offering a rich program that includes musical performances, exhibitions, workshops and the presentation of local products. This festival is not just fun; it is an opportunity for visitors to experience local culture and tradition in one place.

The gastronomy of Gorska Kotar is one of the main attractions for many tourists. Traditional dishes such as mountain pot, game and štrukli are prepared with a lot of love and according to old recipes, often with the use of ingredients collected from the local nature. A visit to one of the local taverns or restaurants offers the opportunity to taste the authentic flavors of the region, along with tasting local cheeses, honey and brandy produced by local artisans.

In addition to gastronomy, Gorski kotar also offers a variety of cultural activities that visitors can experience. Workshops on traditional crafts, such as making wooden souvenirs or weaving in the old fashioned way, enable tourists not only to see but also participate in the preservation of local cultural heritage. These activities not only enrich the tourist offer, but also teach visitors about the importance of preserving traditional skills.

Local exhibitions and art galleries provide space for local artists to display their works inspired by the nature and culture of Gorska Kotar, while numerous cultural centers organize concerts of classical and contemporary music, making the cultural life of the region dynamic and accessible to everyone.

Finally, a visit to Gorski kotar is not complete without experiencing the hospitality and warmth of its inhabitants. Socializing with the local population, either through participation in local festivals or simply in conversation with them, provides the most honest insight into the spirit of the region. The people of Gorska Kotar are proud of their heritage and will be happy to share the stories and legends that make this region special.

Every corner of Gorska Kotar exudes its own story and bears witness to a rich heritage that has been nurtured and passed down for generations. This is a region that provides not only rest for the body but also for the soul, where every visitor can find something for themselves, whether through researching the rich history, enjoying the cultural contents or just relaxing in an authentic environment.

Visit Gorski kotar and experience how tradition and nature live in perfect harmony, and how the hospitality of this region makes every visit unforgettable. Come and feel for yourself why Gorski kotar is a place where everyone who visits it once returns.