Hiking  in Croatia          

The primary mountain range in Croatia is the Dinaric mountains which runs parallel to the coast. Its highest peak is 1831m. Following are the best hiking spots in Croatia:

Ucka Mountain
Between Istria and Kvarner, the 1400m Ucka (pronounced ooch-ka) mountain has a densely forested eastern slope and the canyon valley of Vela Draga on the western side. The mountain can be reached directly from Lovran or Opatija. You won't soon forget the views over Kvarner bay. Tourist offices in either town will have more information or contact Ucka Nature Park.

Risnjak National Park
Its blanketed by snow in the winter but from late spring to early autumn you can climb from the park entrance at Bijela Vodica to the 1528m-high Veliki Risnjak.

Northern Velebit
The Velebit range dominates central Croatia. The best hike is the Premuzic trail. This 50km-long path runs along a ridge at an average altitude of 1000m and leads from Zavizan through the central Velebit range to the Baske Ostarije pass, offering breathtaking views of the coast. You can find more information at the Northern Velebit National Park office or the Velebit office.

Paklenica
A number of easy day hikes are available from the national park base in Starigrad as well as more demanding hikes along the Velebit ridge. You would launch the latter hike from the Planinarski Dom mountain hut.

Biokovo Mountain
Rising behind Makarska, Mt Biokovo is a popular hiking spot. Try the Vosac peak at 142m or, if you have more energy follow the marked trail to the 1762m Sveti Jure peak. The Botanical Garden near Kotisina makes another lovely outing. The Makarska tourist office has more information.

General Hiking Information

Hiking paths are marked with a white dot within a red circle but in more remote areas the markings have worn away or been removed by shepherds.

There are a number of mountain huts, especially in the Velebit range, that provide simple but adequate lodging. It's wise to reserve in advance on summer weekends.

And don't forget to check your medical coverage in Croatia!

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