Kupa River Canyon

The Kupa is one of the great rivers of the Croatian interior, a 296-kilometre stream that begins in the mountains of Gorski Kotar and then flows along the border with Slovenia before turning east to join the Sava at Sisak. Its upper course is among the most beautiful stretches of river in the country, with cold, clear water running between forested slopes, rocks and small gorges. The area near Brod Moravice, on the Gorski Kotar side of the border, is one of the places where the river and its valley can be enjoyed away from crowds.

The source of the Kupa is a classic karst spring, in the territory of Risnjak National Park near the village of Razloge. Here the water emerges from the foot of a steep limestone wall into a deep, clear basin, a pool of striking blue-green colour, surrounded by vertical rock and dense forest. The spring lies at an altitude of a little over 300 metres, and its depth is hard to measure because the water rises from underground channels fed by rain and snow that soak into the high karst. Such springs are typical of the Dinaric region, where rivers disappear into the limestone in one place and reappear in another. The colour of the water changes with the light and the season, and it stays cold all year, so swimming is not allowed.

Marked trails lead to the spring and into the wider landscape, and the paths are suitable for walkers of different abilities, from short, easy strolls to longer forest hikes. The forest is rich in beech, fir and spruce, and the area is home to many plants, mushrooms, birds and mammals, including, in the wider region, bears, lynx and wolves, although these animals are shy and rarely seen. The protection of the area helps keep the landscape quiet and clean.

Along the Kupa valley itself, the villages of Brod Moravice and nearby settlements have a few small sights, among them the church of St. Nicholas and a historic building known as the Seskov House, both mentioned in this guide. The river is also used for canoeing and fishing in suitable stretches, and the old road along the valley offers pleasant drives.

Plan your visit for late spring or autumn, when the water is high, the colours are good and temperatures are mild. Bring sturdy shoes, a rain jacket and water, since there are few services, and check access conditions locally in winter. The area suits hikers, nature lovers, photographers and anyone interested in karst landscapes and quiet rivers. Allow a half day, longer if you plan a longer walk.