Nature & wildlife trip
The Northern Velebit National Park in Croatia is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful parts of the Via Dinarica. Nature here is extreme, unique, and precious, as evidenced by the four special protection areas located in this national park.
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Embark on a very special guided mountain adventure, connect with nature by walking along the amazing Velebit trails and sleeping in mountain huts and then enjoy the luxury of a unique mountain ranch. Along the way, you may see an array of animal species, ranging from the gorgeous apollo butterflies or olive bee hawk moths to reptiles, birds, and amphibians. You might also find yourself in an opportunity to see large carnivores, such as bears, wolves, and lynx, from a very safe distance. What you’ll definitely enjoy is the horseback exploration of the surroundings of the ranch.
Zavižan mountain lodge in north Velebit is one of the places where you'll be staying over night
Velebit Nature Park was included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves within the UNESCO “Man and the Biosphere” Program from 1978 because of its specific relief, vegetative, and landscape features. There are four special protection areas located in the Northern Velebit National Park – the strict nature reserves of Hajdučki and Rožanski Kukovi, the Visibaba ("Snowdrop") Botanical Reserve, the habitat of the endemic plant the Croatian Sibiraea and the Zavižan-Balinovac-Zavižanska Kosa Botanical Reserve, which houses the Velebit Botanical Garden, listed as a monument of landscape architecture.
Arrive in Senj by your own means or via an optional private transfer. After checking in at your apartment, explore this historic town. Wander through narrow alleys and winding streets, feeling the "bura" wind for which Senj is famous. Visit the iconic Nehaj Fortress, perched on Nehaj Hill since 1558. End your day with a delightful dinner at a renowned local restaurant, savoring regional specialties.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then stock up on supplies before your driver takes you to the Vratnik Pass, the starting point of your Via Dinarica adventure. Meet your mountain guide here. Hike through the northern Velebit range, passing through forests and meadows, and reaching the village of Oltari. Overnight in a rustic mountain hut with three rooms. Dinner will be served, and your guide will discuss the upcoming days' hiking plans.
The Premužić Trail is laid out to provide the easiest possible access to the most rugged and inaccessible sections of north Velebit
Hike from Oltari to the Zavižan mountain lodge, passing through shaded forests and gentle inclines. Zavižan is a stunning area within the Northern Velebit National Park, offering breathtaking views and an opportunity to visit the oldest high-altitude weather station in Croatia. Your guide can also take you to nearby peaks for even more spectacular vistas. The Zavižan lodge provides bunk beds, bedding, minor drinks, and facilities for preparing your own food.
One of the highlights of this trip is a horseback riding adventure. We'll teach you how to ride!
After breakfast, set off on the renowned Premužić Trail, a 57 km path built in the 1930s. This section from Zavižan to Alan mountain hut is particularly scenic and suitable for all levels of hikers. The trail winds through some of the most beautiful parts of Velebit, offering opportunities to explore side trails to breathtaking peaks. The Alan hut provides basic amenities, including a kitchen and water from a cistern. Dinner will be prepared for you, and it is recommended to bring your own sleeping bag.
After breakfast at the Alan mountain lodge, transfer to a secluded, luxurious ranch on Mount Velebit. Enjoy two days of eco-adventures, including horseback riding, trail hikes, jeep or canoe expeditions, archery, and geocaching. Indulge in gourmet meals and unique outdoor dining experiences. Immerse yourself in the tranquil wilderness, surrounded by horses and stunning natural beauty.
When staying on the ranch, it's quite possible you'll quickly get immersed into the cowboy and cowgirl life
Enjoy your final breakfast at the ranch, soaking up the serene atmosphere and fresh mountain air. After checking out, transfer back to Senj or your chosen location.
We will double-check availability and make reservations for your rooms, restaurants, guides etc.
With reservations confirmed, we will prepare the best offer possible in regard to your arrival date & party size
You will get the offer via e-mail, along with the payment options. Feel free to request further customisations!
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