Risnjak National Park

Named for the extraordinary and rare Risnjak lynx which roams its virgin forests (ris in Croatian), Risnjak National Park is a stunning wilderness home to imposing peaks, lush valleys, turquoise rivers, and diverse wildlife.

Risnjak National Park invites nature lovers to explore a region little-known outside of Croatia. It is located in the heart of Gorski Kotar, the mountainous and heavily forested region in the north of Croatia often referred to as “the green heart of Croatia” or “Croatian Switzerland.” The park acts as an important geographical barrier between the coastal and the continental parts of Croatia, with regard to both climate and vegetation. It also serves as a natural link between the Alps and the Balkan mountains.

The park’s two tallest peaks, Risnjak and Snježnik, provide spectacular panoramic views which extend to Istria, the Adriatic Sea, and even the Slovenian Alps. At the foot of the mountains, the Kupa River provides fresh, cool water to nourish the plants and animals of the park; its source one of the deepest and most powerful wellsprings in Croatia. The valley which surrounds the source of the Kupa has been nicknamed the “Enchanted Butterfly Valley” for its colorful inhabitants, whose occupancy is proof of the natural harmony and balance found there.

Risnjak National Park’s main entrance can be found in the picturesque village of Crni Lug, easily reached from the main highway connecting Zagreb and Rijeka. Crni Lug is also the starting point for the “Leska Educational Path,” a 4.2 km circular walking trail with 23 sign posts highlighting the park’s natural and cultural heritage. Walking the Leska path is a wonderful way to become acquainted with the history, flora, and fauna of Risnjak.

The park can easily be visited on a day excursion from either Opatija or Zagreb.

Risnjak National Park Facts and Figures:

Surface area: 6350 hectares (~15,700 acres)

Highest Point: Risnjak Peak – 1,528 meters (~5,000 ft)

Lowest Point: Kupa Valley – 290 meters (~950 ft)

Flora:

• 1,148 flora species and sub-species can be found in the park

Fauna:

• The park is home to large carnivores such as the brown bear (Ursus arctos), the wolf (Canis lupus) and the lynx (Lynx lynx), in addition to other mammals such as chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), Red Deer (Cervus elaphus), Roe Deer (Capreolus capreouls), and Wild boar (Sus scrofa)
• 114 bird species have been registered in the national park and its surroundings, 78 of which nest within the park
• 89 species of butterflies, 11 of which were endangered species, have been recorded in the park

Active travelers and outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves at home in Risnjak National Park, with a wide variety of captivating and engaging activities on offer.

Things to do in the Risnjak National Park:

• Hiking, Trekking, and Mountaineering
• Mountain Biking
• Fly Fishing
• Skiing
• Bird and Animal Watching

For more information about the park, we recommend you visit their official website.

All photos courtesy of the Croatian National Tourist Board.