Oldtimer muzej Šardi

Oldtimer Muzej Šardi is a private museum of vintage vehicles in Selnica, a village in Međimurje, the small, hilly region in the far north of Croatia. It is known as the country’s first museum of its kind, and it is the product of a lifelong passion for old cars and motorcycles, which gives it a personal, intimate character that larger, more formal museums often lack.

The idea of an oldtimer, as such vehicles are called in Central Europe, is simple: a car or motorcycle old enough to be considered a classic, usually at least twenty or thirty years old and preserved or restored to its original condition. Collectors search for them in barns, garages and auctions, and restoring one can take years of work, from rebuilding engines to finding exactly the right paint, upholstery and chrome. The result is a moving piece of history, since each vehicle reflects the design, technology and taste of its era. Visitors can see how motoring changed over the decades, from the elegant, upright cars of the early period to the sleeker, more powerful models of later years.

The collection is arranged in an intimate setting, with vehicles close enough to see in detail. Cars and motorcycles from different eras stand beside period objects, signs, tools and memorabilia, and these give a sense of the culture and lifestyle in which the machines were used. The owner, whose dedication built the collection, often acts as a personal guide, sharing stories about each vehicle, how it was found and restored, and who drove it. This is the great strength of a small private museum: the knowledge and enthusiasm of the person who made it. Photography is welcome, and photographers will enjoy the gleaming paintwork, the chrome details and the curved lines.

Međimurje is a pleasant region to explore, and a visit can be combined with the Vino Lovrec winery nearby, where the organic wines of the region can be tasted. The landscape is one of vineyards, orchards and small villages, and the roads are quiet and good for driving or cycling. The food of the region, from the layered pastry known as Međimurska gibanica to dishes cooked with pumpkin oil, makes a good addition to the day.

Opening hours are not fixed in the way of larger museums, so it is best to contact the museum in advance to arrange a visit, particularly for groups, and weekdays are quieter than weekends. A visit takes about an hour. The museum suits car and motorcycle enthusiasts, families, couples and anyone curious about transport history. Bring a camera and some questions for the host.