Hipodrom Oroslavje Stables

Hipodrom Oroslavje is a trotting racetrack with stables on the edge of Oroslavje, a small town in Hrvatsko Zagorje, in northwestern Croatia, around thirty kilometres from Zagreb, and it is one of the better-known Croatian trotting tracks. It is a local sporting facility, and its setting among the green hills of Zagorje makes it a pleasant place for a walk as well as for watching horses.

Trotting, or harness racing, is a form of horse racing in which horses pull a light two-wheeled cart and a driver, and must keep to a trot rather than break into a gallop. It is popular in several European countries, and in Croatia it has a following in the continental part of the country, with tracks at a number of places and a calendar of race days through the season. The sport rewards patience and training, since a horse that breaks stride is penalised, and the races are often tactical. A good track needs a firm, even surface and sweeping bends, and the stables around it house the horses, drivers and grooms who prepare for each meeting.

Hipodrom Oroslavje combines the track with several Stables and a large hall on the grounds, which is used for gatherings and events. Throughout the season the place fills on race days with owners, drivers, families and fans, and the atmosphere is informal and friendly, with food and drink available and children running about. Outside race days, the facility is quieter, and hiking routes that cross the countryside lead to the grounds, so walkers often pass by. Visitors are generally welcome during public events, though access outside these times depends on arrangement with the operators.

Oroslavje has a history that goes back several centuries, and its tradition of horse keeping and riding is linked to the manor houses and castles of the area. The Donje Oroslavje Castle and the surrounding Vraniczany park, a landscaped park around the old manor, are among the local landmarks, and the Domahovo Valley offers pleasant walking. The Science Park is another attraction in town that appeals to families. The wider Zagorje region offers vineyards, castles, thermal baths and small restaurants serving local dishes, so the stables can be one stop in a varied day.

The hippodrome suits horse enthusiasts, families who want an outdoor day and anyone curious about a sport that is not widely known outside the region. Check the race calendar before visiting, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a jacket since the grounds are open and the weather can change.