Vrh Sušec (Strahinjščica)

Vrh Sušec is one of the viewpoints and summits on the ridge of Strahinjščica, a forested mountain in the Zagorje region of northern Croatia, near the small town of Radoboj and not far from Krapina. Strahinjščica is not a high mountain by Alpine standards, since its main summit reaches only a little above 800 metres, but it rises prominently from the soft hills and vineyards of Zagorje and gives some of the widest views in the region. It is a favourite with local walkers, who use its trails for day hikes, for training and for quiet weekends. The ridge is wooded with beech and oak, with open meadows on the slopes and rocky outcrops at the top, and the paths rise through a changing sequence of landscapes.

The walk to Vrh Sušec follows marked trails that start in the villages at the foot of the mountain, such as Radoboj and Strahinje Radobojsko. Some routes are gentle and suitable for casual walkers, while others climb steeply and require a better level of fitness. As you ascend, the trees thin out and the landscape opens, with views over the rolling hills of Zagorje, the church spires, the scattered farms and, on a clear day, the Kalnik and Ivanšćica mountains and the lowlands toward the Sava. The summit is a peaceful spot for a rest, a picnic and photography, and there are no buildings or facilities at the top, so the mood is of unspoiled nature. In spring the forest floor is covered with wildflowers, in summer the shade is welcome, and in autumn the leaves turn gold and red.

The area has other points of interest that can be combined with the hike. Radoboj is well known to geologists for its fossil-rich rocks, which preserve plants and insects from a warm period millions of years ago, and for a former sulphur mine. Jelenska Cave, a karst cave on the slopes, can be visited with a local guide or experienced caver, and the Orchid Trail on Strahinjščica shows the rich plant life of the mountain, including several wild orchid species in late spring. The Sanjiva Dolina, or Sleepy Hollow, is a quiet wooded valley, and a crucifix shrine at Strahinje Radobojsko is a small local landmark.

There are no admission fees or opening hours, so the trails can be used at any time, but daylight is essential, and the weather can change quickly. Wear sturdy shoes with grip, bring plenty of water and snacks, carry a map or a downloaded route and check the trail markings. In wet weather, the paths can be muddy and slippery.

The summit suits hikers, families with older children, photographers and anyone who wants a quiet day in the hills near Zagreb. Allow a half day for the walk, and finish with a meal in one of the Zagorje villages.