This post is part of a series of Croatia Travel Guides and Inspiration!

Check out the 7 Day Itinerary to Hike with me in Croatia’s National Parks here

Hike Northern Velebit National Park with me here

Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park with me here

Hike with me in Paklenica National Park here

Visit Krka River National Park with me here

Risnjak National Park is located approximately 18 km north-east from Rijeka. The park administration and visitor center are located in Crni Lug, a town on the eastern edge of the park. 

Risnjak National Park encompasses Risnjak and Snjeznik mountain ranges and the source area of the River Kupa. The location highlights the unique climate and vegetation barrier between the coastal and continental parts of Croatia. 

The name of Risnjak National Park derives from one of it’s most popular inhabitants the lynx or “ris” in Croatian. In addition to the lynx, the park is a natural habitat for two other European large animals, the bear and wolf as well as almost 1200 flora species and sub-species.

This diversity of rich flora thrives with the special microclimate of the park which has also given rise to the formation of characteristic limestone formed valleys and karst sinkholes . These areas of vegetation showcase unique plant communities due to temperature inversions which make this environment completely different from that of their surroundings. 

Big (Veliki) Risnjak Hike

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the summit of Big (Veliki) Risnjak (1528 m), its highest peak. The peak can be reached only by foot with popular routes starting from Crni Lug (3 h) or from an unpaved road beginning in Gornje Jelenje (1 h). The hike to the top takes around 3-6 hours depending on the trail you choose and your pace.

To summit the very top of the limestone and sandstone peak requires a small section of ferrata-style scrambling up steep rocks.  Those who push to the top can admire views of the Adriatic Sea, neighboring Slovenia and even the Alps from atop the summit, weather permitting.

Just below the peak of Big Risnjak on its southern slope is a well-equipped mountain lodge called Šloserov dom where you can take a break, spend the night, use the facilities and even have a traditional hikers lunch of bean soup. It is open everyday (except Tuesday) from the beginning of May to the end of October. Call ahead (+385(51)836 133) to be sure of availability.

Source of River Kupa Hike

Another rewarding hike within Risnjak National Park takes you to the source of the Kupa River at the park’s lowest point. You will reach the river’s source after an approximately half an hour to one hour hike from the village of Razloge. 

You can descend into the Kupa River Valley (290 m) to the majestic source of this famous river. Here in a deep ravine at the bottom of the Gavranova Rock and Kupeški summit you will find a natural amphitheater with a cold oval pond around 50m wide which is a brilliant turquoise hue. This part of Risnjak National Park is often described as the magnificent valley of butterflies since it is home to more than 500 species of butterflies.

Water springs out of two separate channels into the pond which is the source of the Kupa River. As the river forms and flow forward, it eventually forms the bordering river separating Croatia and Slovenia.