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- Gorski Kotar
Gorski Kotar
A serene alpine escape in the heart of Croatia.
- 19 destinations
- 59 attractions
About Gorski Kotar
Gorski Kotar, often referred to as the 'Green Heart of Croatia', is a captivating region of lush forests, rugged mountains, and charming villages. It offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Gorski Kotar is a mountainous region located in the northwest of Croatia, nestled between the cities of Rijeka and Karlovac. Known for its dense forests and picturesque landscapes, it is bordered by Slovenia to the north and the Kvarner Gulf to the south. Key towns in the region include Delnice, Čabar, and Vrbovsko, each offering unique local charm and hospitality. Visitors can explore Risnjak National Park, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking hiking trails, or visit the enchanting caves of Lokvarka and Vrelo. Cultural highlights include traditional wooden architecture and local festivals celebrating the region's heritage. The natural beauty is complemented by deep gorges, crystal-clear rivers, and serene lakes. The best time to visit Gorski Kotar is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities, or in winter for a magical snowy landscape. The region is accessible by car from major Croatian cities, with local roads offering scenic drives. Once there, hiking and biking are popular ways to explore the area.Where to go in Gorski Kotar
Gorski Kotar
Bakar
Kvarner harbor town with Frankopan castle and winding old streets
Gorski Kotar
Ravna Gora
Gorski Kotar mountain town with forests and outdoor adventure
Gorski Kotar
Tršće
Mountain village in Gorski Kotar with alpine scenery
Gorski Kotar
Vrbovsko
Gorski Kotar town with river canyons and outdoor adventure
Gorski Kotar
Čabar
Borderland town with castles, forests, and noble heritage
Gorski Kotar
Mrkopalj
Gorski Kotar mountain village with skiing and hiking trails
Gorski Kotar
Stara Sušica
Gorski Kotar village with fairytale castle and forest trails
Gorski Kotar
Brod Moravice
Mountain village in Gorski Kotar with rich nature
What to see
Delnice · Activities & Adventure
Drgomalj
Mountain village near Risnjak National Park trails
Mrkopalj · Activities & Adventure
Bijele & Samarske Stijene
White limestone towers amid forested peaks
Crni Lug · Cultural Experiences
Crkva svetog Petra i Pavla (Church of St. Peter and Paul)
18th-century Baroque-Classicism Serbian Orthodox church
Vrbovsko · Natural Wonders
Dulin Ponor
Natural karst sinkhole with scenic hiking trails
Bakar · Cultural Experiences
House Built by a Turkish Family
Ottoman-era house with unique Turkish architecture
Skrad · Natural Wonders
Kičljive Jame Caves
Karst cave system near Skrad, Croatia
Lokve · Activities & Adventure
Lokvarsko Jezero (Lake Lokve)
Artificial lake in Gorski Kotar, rich in trout fishing
Lukovdol · Natural Wonders
Lukovdol Waterfall
Scenic waterfall nestled in Gorski Kotar forest
Brod Moravice · Cultural Experiences
Seskov House
Traditional Croatian heritage house in Brod Moravice
Itineraries for Gorski Kotar
Day-by-day routes you can follow as written or borrow from.
Stories and tips
· 9 min read
Croatia by Train: Routes, Timetables, Tickets & When to Take the Bus
Zagreb to Split, Rijeka and Osijek, trains to Ljubljana and Vienna, and the places no train goes
· 4 min read
Wellness Retreats in the Croatian Hinterland
Thermal spas, mountain forests and quiet farm stays: where to go for rest and recovery in inland Croatia, away from the busy coast.
· 4 min read
Croatia Packing List by Season: What to Bring for Coast, Islands and Inland
What to pack for Croatia in summer, the shoulder seasons and winter, with the differences between the Adriatic coast, the islands and inland areas like Zagreb and Plitvice.