Kupi River

The Kupa, spelled Kupi in some local forms, flows through Brod na Kupi, a small village in Gorski Kotar, close to the Slovenian border, and it is the main feature of a quiet and green valley. The river rises in the mountains of Risnjak, runs along the border between Croatia and Slovenia for much of its upper course and then turns east on its way to join the Sava at Sisak. At Brod na Kupi, it is clear, cool and gently flowing, with gravel banks, grassy shores and forested slopes rising on either side. The village's name means Ford on the Kupa, and the river was long its main route and boundary, so the settlement grew up around a crossing.

The valley is known locally as the Valley of Butterflies. The meadows and forest edges around Brod na Kupi support a very large number of butterflies and moths, with local descriptions speaking of hundreds of species, which is a significant share of the country's insect fauna. The variety comes from the mixture of habitats, with wet meadows, dry slopes, woodland and river banks within a small area, and from the clean, unspoiled environment. Summer is the best time to see them, when wildflowers are in bloom and the air is full of colour and movement, and nature lovers and photographers come with cameras and nets, though collecting is not encouraged. The valley is also rich in birds, fish and dragonflies.

The river itself is a place for simple pleasures. The water is clean enough for swimming, and many people come to cool off in the heat of summer, to fish for trout and grayling, or to paddle in canoes and kayaks along the gentle current. The banks invite picnics and leisurely walks, and the surrounding forests and meadows offer hiking and cycling routes, with views over the valley. There are no admission fees or set opening hours, so you can enjoy the river whenever you like, though it is wise to be careful in swimming areas and to avoid the river after heavy rain, when the level can rise quickly.

History is also part of the visit. Along the river, you can find the ruins of a castle built by the Zrinski family in the 17th century, associated with Prince Petar Zrinski, who was executed in 1671 after a failed conspiracy against the Habsburgs. The baroque parish church of St. Mary Magdalene is another landmark, and the Zrinski Fortress houses the Museum of Forestry, Hunting and Fishing, which tells of the traditional life of the region. A walk through the village combines these with views of the water.

The valley suits nature lovers, families, anglers and photographers, and it is a quiet alternative to busier destinations. Visit between late spring and early autumn, and bring insect repellent, sun protection and a swimsuit.