A trip to the Zumberak Nature Park can be described as relaxing, exciting and informative for the whole family. The area lies approximately 30 kilometers from Zagreb and is easily accessible by car from both Croatia and Slovenia. Alternatively, visitors can travel by bus from Samobor, Jastrebarsko and Krasic to the park.
The eastern region of the Nature Park is dominated by the Samobor Mountains and their deep valleys and picturesque streams. Idyllic villages surrounded by hills and fields can be found in the middle. The west is covered by dense forests and is hardly populated. About 1,000 species of plants – several of them strictly protected – thrive in the Zumberak Nature Park. In addition to having numerous species of birds, it also serves as a home for bears and wolves, as well as fish, reptiles and amphibians.
From the observation town on the Plesivica mountain massif, visitors can enjoy an impressive view of the vineyards growing the southern slopes. For lovers of Baroque architecture, a visit to the Church of St. Lawrence located in the village of Vivodina near to Ozalj is worth making a detour for. Among the natural attractions in the Zumberak Nature Park is the Brisalo waterfall located in the Slapnica Valley. Easily manageable trails lead from Jecmiste to the cabin of Kuna Kalje and continue on to Gornja Vas. These trails are suitable for family outings as the time required for these hikes takes only about 90 minutes. There are four biking trails of varying difficulty and lengths to choose from in the park.
There are many offers, at a price, that the park provides for guests. The fee for participation in a children’s educational program is equivalent to about 6 EUR. A four hour long tour of the park with an expert guide costs around 70 EUR (2014) for adults.