- REGION 10+1 REASON FOR GETTING OFF THE HIGHWAY AND DISCOVERING THE REGION

www.visit-lika.com Lika-Senj region should be visited during all four seasons throughout Contents: the year. This interesting region will surprise you with its beauty, exceptional points of interest and the particularly warm welcome 1. ...... 6 of its hosts. 2. SENJ 8 While driving towards the sea, or coming back from the sea, 3. ...... 10 you only need to ”descend“ from the motorway and visit some of 4. PLITVICE LAKES NP ...... 12 the Lika towns and localities foothill villages, refresh your 5. VELEBIT 14 body and soul by enjoying the intact nature of Gacka and Velebit 6. PERUŠIĆ 16 and explore the first class attractions found at every step. 7. GOSPIĆ 18 Lika is mystical and beautiful, preserved and wild, unique in its 8. 20 link of elements: stone, wood, water, water sources, rivers, and the handshakes and smiles of its hosts. Simply said, it is a magnificently 9. - SVETO BRDO . . . . . 22 preserved natural environment. 10. - ISLAND OF . . . . 24 Welcome! 11. GASTRONOMY 26 LLika-Senj County Tourist Board 4 5 LEGEND

Motorway Sports airport Tourist State road information Place of County road pilgrimage Castle, palace Local road Old town, fortification Railway tracks Protected forest

Road numbers Cave Important hun- ting grounds National park Important Nature park fishing area Elevation Hotel

Bridge Restaurant

State Museum boundary

Parking, Cycling rest area trail

Ferry, Church ferry line

UNESCO Climber’s lodgings Brinje Useful Information: What to See Sokolac, Rokina bezdana - cave, Brodić Lake 1A1 - Exit 8

Brinje - view from the town Sokolac

The Gate to Lika Travelling south from Zagreb and having passed the tunnel Mala Kapela, the first place for turning into the Lika region is Brinje. The old Church Načašća sv. Križa 1820., Križpolje road that connected Lika and Gacka with the sea across Vratnik and onto Senj has now an attractive road for those who are visiting this area for the first time. For those who have travelled this road in the past, it serves as a reminder of the time Our recommendation Brinje builders and stone-carvers. There is a that passed by when the rhytm of life moved at a The Holy Trinity Chapel in Sokolovac is a world- sundial on the bridge with a stone sphere for 6 much slower pace. wide cultural heritage monument and one of reconstruction. 7 Brinje is first mentioned in 1343 as ”Brigna”, the most beautiful medieval monuments in A bronze monument to the Brinje miners is the and the second time on June 18 of the same year . work of the academic sculptor Koste Angelija St Fabian and Sebastian Chapel is a Radovanija. The miners from Brinje are well- as ”Bregne“. It is considered that the name protected worldwide cultural heritage monu- known as builders of many roads and tunnels derives from the chakavian local dialect ”brnja”, ment and one of the oldest sacral buildings in throughout Europe, breaking tunnels from i.e. simple juniper tree that grows in the area. the Brinje municipality area. The building is Tierra del Fuego to Siberia and, therefore, The second explanation can be attributed to the late Romanesque style of sacral constructions famous throughout the world. th The stone bridge across Gate Jaruga built in 1801. local dialect ”brinia”, which means exaltation, dating from the 14 century. Activities The parish church of the Assumption of the also a characteristic of the Brinje region - angling on Brodić Lake where there is a Holy Virgin Mary was built by the well-known Hunter’s Home landscape. Remains of the old town of Sokolac defender and liberator of Lika from the - strolling in the locality and surroundings Eating Out (hill-fort) can be seen on top of the hill in the Ottomans, the priest Marko Mesić, born in center of Brinje. It was founded at the beginning Brinje around the year 1700, on the remains of - for cavers - abysmal Cave Rokina and Restaurant VICTORIA Cave Siničić near Letinca village from 3 Frankopanska, 53260 Brinje of the 15th century by Nicholas IV Frankopan as the older monastery church of St. Mary dating back to 1476. the neolithic period as an important Tel.: +385 (0)53 700-746, Fax: (0)53 700-005 the residence of this noble family. The three-floor The church of St. Vid dates from the and unique archeological prehistorical Cell.: +385 (0)98 245-173 chapel of the Holy Trinity with vaults and 14th century and is one of the oldest sacral buil- site. A paleolithic hunter lived here www.vici-victoria.hr Frankopan coat of arms is one of the most dings in Brinje. 9500 years before Christ and left some Where to stay important Gothic monuments in Croatia. In the very center of Brinje, on the Josephine pictures on the rock face of the cave Road, there is a stone bridge across the 200-year- that have not been solved until this day. Hotel Lika-North old Gate Jaruga stream. The bridge was built in PUO Brinje, Tel.: +385 (0)53 646 050 1801 by the industrious hands of by coastal and Hotel Lika-South PUO Brinje, Tel.: +385 (0)53 646 040 www.restaurant-lika.com

Did you know? Historians agree that it is difficult to Brinje Tourist Office establish the exact source when and how the name Sokolac came to be used. One of 62 Frankopanska, 53260 Brinje the stories starts with the wedding of Tel.: + 385 (0)53 701 407 Nicholas IV with Dorothy Gorjanski, when, Fax: + 385 (0)53 701-210 on the eve of the wedding, Nicholas sent a [email protected] present to Venice - a horse and falcon www.visitbrinje.hr (sokol) and goes by saying that when man left the town, falcons made their nests high up in the sky thus inspired historians and people to call the town by this name. Brinje - Sokolac Senj Useful Information: What to See Fortress Nehaj, Summer Carnival 2 A1 - Exit 9, Žuta Lokva

Zavratnica A hiking trail to starts right under the kiosk selling ferry tickets. The bay is 900 m long and from 50 to 150 m wide. The canyon rises up to 100 meters. Thanks to its natural values, it was pronounced “protected landscape” back in 1964, and from 1981 a part of Velebit Nature Park.

Eating Out The Oldest City of the The city of Senj, known for its tempestuous and rich history, was founded more than 3000 years ago. Fortress Nehaj that dominates the city under the Velebit was built in the 16th century served for the defense from foreign conquerors such as Turks and Venetians. The fortress hosts the muse- um collection of objects of the Senj Uskoks the You can refresh in Senj at many restaurants and Getting there: To reach Senj descend from the and from 50 to 150 m wide. Remains from taverns that offer a large selection of dishes based Senj Port Authority and the permanent motorway A1 at Žuta Lokva, Exit 9. prehistoric localities were found on Krasnica on the combination of coastal and Velebit tradi- hill standing over the bay. 8 exhibition of Senj named Churches Through We Recommend 9 A particular point of interest for divers is the tions. History and Senj City and Noblemen’s Coats of - besides Fortress Nehaj in Senj, historical park visit the City Museum located in sunken German ship from the World War II at Arms. There is a restaurant on the ground floor. the palace of the Vukasović family and a depth of 8 to 10 m. Zavratnica can be In the old city nucleus with its various shops, the permanent exhibition of sacral art reached by boat or foot trail from Jablanac. Where to stay that is open to visitors from July 15 to Center for the protection of preying birds narrow streets, strongholds, and sacral objects September 1 „Grifon“ - research and educational Center for Accomodation can be found at the LIBRA hotel you can observe the singular diversity of this city - church of St. Mary, votive church of Senj the protection of preying birds at Crnika (5 km located on the cosast at Obala dr. Franje Tuđmana south from Sv. Juraj, 14 km south from Senj), connected by sea with other Mediterranean cities, sailors and fishermen 8, Hotel ART, Obala kralja Zvonimira 4, and large - remains of the Senj Plaque, around the managed by „Griffon“ non-profit organization number of private apartments and vacation houses. while by road with the hinterland over Vratnik year 1100, written in Glagolithic that deals with the protection of nature pri- Pass (700 m). - monumental Cilnica Square marily through the protection of preying birds. - the Great Gate, the end of Josephine’s Besides the permanent exibitions at the Center, road and the entrance into the city you can also tour a part of the rehabilitation of - Uskočka Street, magnificent and intact preying birds who were injured and are recov- example or medieval architecture ering until they are released into the nature. - Sundial built on the Adriatic Highway Events in the northern part of the city, at the - Bycicle race „Zavižan climb“ (from 0 to 1594 m), 45th parallel June - Park of Senj Writers that houses the church of - Manifestation ”Days of the Uskok“, St. Mary of Art, votive church of Senj sailors reconstruction of the events and customs and fishermen Cathedral of the Assumption from the time when Fortress Nehaj was of the Virgin Mary built: July 11th - 13th Senj Surroundings - Samba festival – Samba mania, two-day Zavratnica is a natural karst phenomenon at festival, July the foot of the Velebit. It is located at 2.5 km - Klapa Senj festival, July south of Jablanac, the ferry landing for the - Senj concert evenings, July, August island of Rab. The gorge is about 900 m long Did you know? In 1248, the Senj bishop became the only bishop in the Catholic world that could use the Glagolithic script and the national language in liturgy by permission from Senj Tourist Office Pope Innocent IV. This encouraged the Stara cesta 2, 53270 Senj development of the script during the 14th and 15th centuries mentioned in many Tel.: +385 (0)53 881-068 preserved Glagolithic inscriptions and Fax: +385 (0)53 881-219 handwritten books and documents. [email protected] www.tz-senj.hr Nehaj Fortress Nehajeva bb, Senj Upper picture: Senj Tel.: +385 (0)53 885-277 Lower picture: Nehaj Fortress [email protected] Useful Information: Gacka What to See Gacka River, Sinac vrilo and mills, Velebit refuge for young bears and cubs Velebit Association of Kuterevo (VUK) Refuge for young bears at Kuterevo 3 A1 - Exit 10, Otočac

Cell.: +385 (0)91 5835 412 Ivan Pavenka Crnković 53225 Kuterevo, 103 Pod crikvom www.kuterevo-medvjedi.org [email protected]

Green - Turquoise Oasis Eating Out Specialities from Lika can be tasted in any Gacka is a valuable etnographic locality where restaurant: the abundance of true values meet unanimously: Restaurant “MAJSIĆ”, Čovići 108 b, beauty, water, landscape, tradition, authenticity Tel.: +385 (0)53 761 009, and, naturally, gastronomy! The karst precipice www.restoran-majsic.hr of Gacka, the queen among rivers, source of life Inn “ĆAMAR”, Otočac, Gornja Dubrava bb., for the inhabitants of Gacko polje, and a discovery Tel.: +385 (0)53 771 558 of peace and beauty for tourists and travellers. Bistro “RIBIČ“ , Otočac, Ante Starčevića 44, Water from the river is drinkable water (second Cell.: +385 (0)98-179 6888 Getting there: Gacka can be reached from according to earlier appointment in Europe in quality), the autochthonous brown Bistro “VRILO GACKE“, Sinac 15, motorway A1 at Exit no.10 for Otočac. On the - etnographic collection of traditional Tel.: +385 (0)53 743 019 trout is the most sought after river fish, the water road towards the locality of in the values in the Gacka region - Grčević 10 Bistro “BUMERANG“ , Otočac, Vivoze 10b, 11 plants of Gacka River were once cut to feed cattle, direction of Korenica and Plitvice there is a sign collection, Ličko Lešće for turning towards Sinac, i.e the source of the - Gačan park of Croatian memory – the collon- Cell.: +385 (0)98 497 485 on the sources (in Sinac - Tonković and Majerevo Gacka River. ades of the regional and national history from 9th to 21st century Where to stay vrilo) and waterfalls (in Švica) mills for grinding Tour Plan: The town of Otočac is the center of - Otočac sculpture Calvary with fifteen wheat have been renewed as have stamping-mills the Gacka region and the first urban locality Accommodation in Otočac can be found in hotels stone columns set from the base of the where you can visit many sights, such as church or private apartments for washing and ”softening” of domestic woolen Fortica to the Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows of the Holy Trinity in the town center, the - shrine of the Mother of God from textile and baskets for rolling and washing chapel of the Holy Virgin Mary in Poljica dating Hotel Park Exclusive, 33 Kralja Zvonimira, Krasno, (Mother of God of Carmel) and woolen blankets. from 1723 and other interesting etnographic Tel.: + 385 (0)53 617 984 St Ann from features in Gacka Museum. [email protected] - game fishing in the Gacka River is an Upon leaving Gacka you can turn northeast to Otočac - Center of the Early attraction for anglers for the river is Hotel Zvonimir, 28 Kralja Zvonimira, Plitvice Lakes National Park or southeast to North known for its brown trout that grows Tel.: + 385 (0)53 135 773 Croatian Gacka Region Velebit National Park. five times faster than in other rivers of www.hotel-zvonimir.hr While the river seduces you with its beauty, it Activities the karst regions, particularly favorable Hotel Mirni Kutak, 63 Gornja Dubrava, - cycling trails in Gacka River valley and for its optimal temperature and the surely does not come to your mind that you are in Tel.: + 385 (0)53 771 589 the Velebit foothill villages alkile chemical composition of the water www.hotel-mirni-kutak.hr the proximity of the oldest locality of the Croatian - walking trails: Humac, Gacka Events Hotel Gacka, Ličko Lešće 315, population. Proof of this is on the Baščanska - marked hiking trails : Otočac - Zavižan - Gacka carnival, Otočac Day; January-February - sports airport: Otočac, Špilničko polje Tel.: +385 (0)53 787 508 Plaque from 1100, and other proof can be seen - Folklore festival of Lika-Senj County: May - Gacka River game fishing - Gacka Cup; Taekwando Gacka Cup: May [email protected] in the homeland museum of the town of Otočac. - Kayaking and bird watching at the Gacka - Days of Gacka, concerts and theater river; Marković turfs hiking trail performances: July - August Otočac Tourist Office We Recommend - Barkan memorial bicycle race, June 53220 Otočac, 17 Kralja Zvonimira - Gacka Museum located in the city center - Ekoetno Gacka, exhibition - sale fair in Sinac, Tel./Fax: +385 (0)53 771-603 with a rich archeological collection, daily July [email protected] / [email protected] visits on working days from 8 a.m. to - Gačan tournament of old sports - October www.tz-otocac.hr 3 p.m. Group visits outside working hours - Advent Otočac, December. Did you know? Croatian Center for Autochthonous A stamping mill for making cloth has been Fish and Crab from Karst Waters preserved in Sinac, in other words, hand Otočac, 10 Kralja Zvonimira woven products made of wool that were Cell.: +385 (0)91 2222-397 acquired from sheep. To prepare the www.pastrveituristi.otocac.hr rough fiber for creation of comfortable ”Gacka“ Society for Gacka River clothes, it was necessary to soak it and Protection and Management then beat it. This was done in stamping 53220 Otočac, 5a Bartola Kašića mills, special water-mills adjusted for this Cell.: +385 (0)91 6701-954 purpose. www.gacka.hr Mills were also renewed where, along with the sound of clear water falling on For visiting, sight-seeing and milling the stone wheel of the mill, one can smell Upper picture: Lake Švica Jure Kolaković - Majerovo vrilo the odour of freshly ground flower. Lower picture: Gacka River Cell.: +385 (0)99 571-6940 Useful Information:

Plitvice Lakes NP What to See 16 terraced lakes, falls, caves, woods, The park hosts especially valuable and attractive buildings of traditional crafts that are driven by restaurants with a rich gastronomic water power: mill, sawmill and dumbbels, which offer, hotels, campsites are being gradually restored and presented to the visitors. A1 - Exit 10, Otočac 4 Eating Out

National restaurant LIČKA KUĆA with a rich offer of traditional dishes and its unique architecture. Tel.: +385 (0)53 751 382 The only natural value in Croatia listed on the UNESCO Restaurant POLJANA, Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-092 World Heritage List Restaurant BORJE, Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-777 Restaurant MACOLA, Tel.: +385 (0)53 776-170 The Plitvice Lakes are situated somewhat further Restaurant BABIĆ, Tel: +385 (0)53 776 779 from the motorway, which is good, but not too far not to be ”en route” and visited on the way to Bistro VUČNICA, Tel.: +385 (0)53 751 282 the sea. It is definitely one of the places to come Bistro PLJEŠEVICA, Tel.: +385 (0)53 776 701 with someone dear to your heart, holding hands Bistro VILA VELEBITA, Tel.: +385 (0)53 755 040 or embracing and walking around the magical Getting there: A1 highway from Zagreb, first woman from our famous Hapsburg - Bistro ŠAPINA, Tel.: +385 (0)53 776 083 landscape surrounded by the sound of the falls Otočac exit, trhough Vrhovina and Vrela Lotarin dynasty who visited the lakes 70 years Bistro FORTUNA, Tel.: +385 (0)53 753 031 12 and the crystal clear water. You can also come Koreničkog for less than an hour, taking the after the Queen and Empress Caroline visited 13 exit to D1 state road at the restaurant Borje them in mid June, 1818. alone with a smile on your face to greet all the Where to stay living creatures around you, the ones flying, and continuing towards the Plitvice Lakes. Hiking trail Medvjeđak is an arranged and marked hiking trail that leads to the peaks crawling, swimming, running… or to stop for a Tour Program: The park has two entrances, north Within the boundaries of the national park, in its or Entrance 1 opposite the Lička kuća restaurant, Oštri Medvjeđak (889 m above sea level) and lake area there are the following: second with your camera that you surely must and the south one or Entrance 2 opposite the Tupi Medvjeđak (868 m above sea level). The have with you and catch the last ray of the sun on turning for hotels Plitvice and Bellevue. 8 various view from peak Oštri Medvjeđak reaches up to JEZERO ***, Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-400 Lička Plješivica, Valley (Bihać), the drops of dew before they dry. Words are need- programs of visit and sightseeing are at the dis- PLITVICE **, Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-100 less when speaking of the frozen falls that resem- posal for the guests, which include walking Valley, Drežnik Grad and Ličko Petrovo Selo. An impressive view of a part of Plitvice Lakes, ble lacework. This is unconditionally to be seen along the paths and wooden bridges, trade ride BELLEVUE **, Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-700 and boat trip on Lake Kozjak. The panorama train Lička Plješivica and Mala Kapela spreads from and experienced with your own eyes. On the edges of the national park there are: and the electrical boat connect the Lower and Tupi Medvjeđak peak. Špoljarić sawmill and water-mill is located in Upper Lakes and are included in the price of the Hotel MACOLA ***, Tel.: +385 (0)53 776-228 Korana village. It is a traditional farm building ticket. and a cultural heritage construction showing Hostel FALLING LAKES, Cell. +385 (0)99 4137 242 All information can be obtained at info cent- the old manner of grinding wheat. The mill is ers located at entrances 1. and 2. Hotel GRABOVAC ***, Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-999 set in motion by the strength of the water. Activities Šupljara is cave located along the eastern edge Autocamp KORANA ** Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-888 Walking, hiking on Lička Plješevica and Mrsinj, of the Lower Lakes, in a limestone canyon Campsite BORJE *** Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-790 paragliding in Bjelopolje, riding the electrical above the trail that leads to the Kaluđerovac boat and train, photography, cycling, skiing, Lake. Baraćeve Caves are located at about 16 There is an option to stay at family bed and break- rowing. km from the Plitvice Lakes National Park. They fasts and Student home in Korenica (during summer) We recommend are connected to the underground flow of the and Pastoral center located at Plitvice Lakes. Plitvice Lakes ara a world jewel of an inesti- Korana River that emerges from the waters of mable value. Their specific beauty is a refuge the Plitvice Lakes and Plitivice stream. They for nature lovers and an inspiration for art- consist of three caves: Velika and Mala (Big and ists, and the unique and rich nature an explo- Small), Gornja and Donja (Upper and Lower) Plitvice Lakes National Park - ration polygon for scientists. Visit Štefanija’s and Nova (New) Barać Cave. Gornja Baraćeva booking and information islet on the Lake Kozjak. cave is arranged for tourist sightseeing. Hiking 53231 Plitvička jezera Did you know? The islet was named in honor of Queen trail Medveđak – educational and recreational Tel.: +385 (0)53 751-014, 751-015 It is said that the Prošćansko Lake got its Štefanija who visited Plitvice Lakes on trails of forest ecocystems: „Čorkova uvala“ – 21 Fax: +385 (0)53 751-013 name from stakes or the legend of the September 5, 1888. Queen Štefanija was the km long, „Plitvice“ trail – 9 km long. [email protected] Black Queen, whom people “begged” to www.np-plitvicka-jezera.hr send rain during the great drought and soak the thirsty earth. The queen took pity Plitvice Lakes Tourist Office on them, covered the sky with black 6 Trg sv. Jurja, 53230 Korenica clouds, and rain fell and fell until the lakes Tel./Fax: + 385 (0)53 776-798 were formed. This lake is second in size [email protected] and depth. www.discoverplitvice.com Plitvice Lakes The Velebit Useful Information: What to See NP North Velebit, Velebit NP In North Velebit National Park- Rožanski and A1 – exit 10, Otočac Hajdučki kukovi where Lukine Caves are located - 1392 m deep, Slovačke Caves - 1320 m, and in 5 Velebit Nature Park.

There are also smaller caves and pits, as well as many important geomorphological (Kiza, Tulove grede, kuk Stapina etc.) and hydrological constructions (source and flow of the ). The National Park Administration is to be notified for any visits to the caves.

The World of Silence and Eating Out Freshness In 1978 the Velebit was inserted in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (”Man and the Biosphere Program” (UNESCO). Within the nature park there are a number of protected localities: 2 national parks (North Velebit, ). National Park North Velebit includes several previosly protected areas - Strict nature Getting there: North Velebit National Park can - walking along Premužićev Trail suitable Tavern JURE, Krasno, Tel.: +385 (0)53 851-100 reserve Hajdučki and Rožanski kukovi, be reached from the motorway, exit for Otočac for all ages Bistro MANJAN, 109 Krasno, Krasno Polje, 14 Botanical reserve Visibaba and Botanical reserve towards Krasno locality. At Oltari village there - photo safari of mountain endemic flowers Tel.: +385 (0)53 851-014 15 Zavižan-Balinovac-Velika kosa, within which is a roadsign for Zavižan (entrance into Babić- and wild animals Bistro LIBERTAS, Krasno, Tel.: +385 (0)53 851 066 Siča where tickets can be bought for the North - horseback riding in North Velebit National there is a well-know Velebit Botanical Garden, a Velebit National Park tour).You can reach Babić Park Where to stay declared monument of landscape architecture. Siće from Krasna by driving along the gravel ­- cycling ”Climb onto Zavižan” - June More than 300 caves have been discovered in the road (5 km) through Vukelići village. You can Accommodation in climber’s lodgings also reach Zavižan from the coastal skran, turn- area of National Park North Velebit of which the We Recommend PD ZAVIŽAN ing to Sveti Juraj from the Adriatic coastal road - to visit the botanical gardens on Zavižan Contact person - superintendent Ante Vukušić most important cave structures are Cerovačke onto a curvy mountain road which is 12 km - Zavižan Climber’s Lodgings (1600 m above Tel.: +385 (0)53 614-209 long and takes you to Oltari(950 m). Caves and Lukina Cave. In the past, this area sea level) - visit of the meteorological PD ALAN was settled by a greater number of people that left Tour Plan: The national park can be reached station and viewpoint from which a fourth Contact person HPS +385 (0)1 4824-142 from the continent, directions Mrkvište, Ledena of all the Croatian islands can be seen - Hotel DEGENIJA their traces in the numerous ruins of stables, Draga, Begovača and Štirovača, or from the Krasno village - a visit of the cheese dairy Krasno b.b., Tel.: + 385 (0) 53 851 205 sacral buildings and cultural monuments. Today, southwest hiking trails, and from directions ”Runolist“, possibility of buying homemade they are witness’ of times gone by, customs and Brisnica and Gornje Klade on the coast, while on Accommodation in Krasno cheese culture of the inhabitants of this mysterious the northeastern side from Krasno. Mother of God from Krasno Shrine A circular tour of Veliki Zavižan starts from the Events Krasno b.b., Tel.: +385 (0)53 851-007 mount. road at the entry to the Velebit botanical garden, ”Antonja u Krasnu” the celebration on the Croatian Forests - Accommodation Building and it is possible to go down on the circular path Paklenica National Park extends onto the occasion of the St. Anthony, the patron saint Šumarija Krasno, Tel./Fax: +385 (0)53 851-116 in the garden from the top and then take it back of the parish of Krasno. Middle of June numer- southern slopes of the Velebit Massif, and the to Balinovac and Velika kosa where you will Accommodation TOMAIĆ, Tel.: +385 (0)98 162-2772 ous events take place and also the Fair of most attractive features are the monumental reach the lodge for which you need about 2-3 KRASNA House, Tel.: +385 (0)53 572-335, 672-131 Traditional Products that represents products canyon of Velika and Mala Paklenica whose hours. The view from the top extends towards www.krasno-kuca.com the sea and the islands of Krk, Prvić, Goli otok, from traditional local crafts as well as culinary vertical cliffs over 400 m high have made Sveti Grgur and Rab, while in the distance onto specialties of the region and its surroundings. Paklenica a world-known rock-climbing center. the islands of Cres and Lošinj with noticeable In the church the Mother of God from Krasno is Velebit Nature Park Public Institution Osorčica. The Velebit peaks Veliki and Mali located above the locality, the inhabitants of 4b Kaniža gospićka, 53 000 Gospić Pivčevac and on the other side Balinovac and the coast and Lika have been gathering from Vučjak can be seen from the climber’s lodgings Tel.: +385 (0)53 560-450 ancient times on the 15th of August to listen to and somewhat further on Mali Rajinac (1699 m) Fax: +385 (0)53 560-451 the church choir in honor of the Assumption of and further on Rožanski kukovi. www.velebit.hr You can start your Velebit hike from Premužićev the Virgin Mary. Did you know? In Kuterevo you can see first class wooden ves- North Velebit National Park Public Institution Trail, from its beginning at 2 km from the Krasno b.b., 53274 Krasno botanical gardens, and up to Rossieva koliba sels for cooking, longlasting wooden tools and Premužić Trail is the hiking trail that leads Tel./Fax: +385 (0)53 665-380, 665-390 along the Velebit across the craggy refuge (about 2 hours). the unbreakable chairs from Kuterevo made by www.np-sjeverni-velebit.hr ground of the North and Mid Velebit. the hard-working people of the region and Activities [email protected] The beginning of the trail is at Zavižan - instructive, cycling and hiking trails, their industrious hands, as well as an asylum Climber’s Lodgings and then across Veliki alpinism, caving, bird-watching for young bears. Paklenica National Park Public Institution Alan Pass and onto Oštarijska vrata. It was 14a Dr. Franje Tuđmana, 23244 built from 1930 to 1933. The designer and Starigrad-Paklenica construction organizer was the forest Tel.: +385 (0)53 369-155, 369-202, engineer Ante Premužić (1889 - 1979). Upper picture: North Velebit NP entrance 369-803 (Reception entrance to the park) www.paklenica.hr Lower picture: Premužić Trail Perušić Useful Information: What to See Kosinjski Bridge, Lika River Kruščica Lake, Grabovača Cave Park 6 A1 - Exit 11, Perušić

Remains of the old town of Perušić dating from the 16th century.

The Wealth of the Cave World The church of the Holy Cross from the 17th century is situated on the road from Perušić to Klanac Perušić and its surroundings are located in the center of Lika, northwest of Ličko polje and 12 km from Gospić. Perušić was first mentioned in 1487. It was founded by brothers Dominik and Gašpar Perušić, a noble family that came from Dalmatinska Zagora (Dalmatian hinterland). The locality was named after them, and upon a Getting there: Perušić can be easily reached by Kaluđerovac, traditional processing, shaping and hill they built their defense tower that has taking Exit 11 from the motorway. presentation of fashion objects made of wool of Samograd Cave, Grabovača Cave Park 16 various names in literature - the old town of Tour Plan: The main attractions for tourists are the autochthonous sheep pramenka. 17 Perušić, Gradina, but most often called Turska Samograd Cave in Grabovac Park, the Lika Kosinj Bridge is made of stone, seventy meters kula (Turkish tower) built in the 16th century. River and Kruščica Lake. Perušić is the center long and crosses the Lika River, connecting The tower had three floors and is encircled by a for starting the climb on Velebit ”Klanac - Upper and Lower Kosinj. The bridge dates from Donje Pazarište - Štirovaca”, as well as hunting the 19th century and was made by “stone thick drystone wall whose remains appear in in the local hunting - grounds and game fish- wedging” technique, unique for its opening in mere outline. ing in the Lika River. arches reflecting in the water as regular circles. Park Grabovača (770 m), a very unique cave We Recommend Activities park is located 2,5 km from the center of Perušić. The viewpoint is the highest point on Besides walking, hiking, cycling and other out- Grabovača, at 770 m above the sea level. door recreation, in the summer months you It consists of six caves and one pit: Samograd, Panoramic view from there extends over the can bathe in the Lika River or go rafting on Medina Cave, Amidžina Cave, Velika Kozarica, Lika karst plateau with the Lika River Canyon, Kruščica Lake. Hunting with a licence is permit- Gornji Kosinj the artificial lake of Kuščica and the green wall ted in the surrounding hunting-grounds and Mala Kozarica, Tabakuša and Slipica-pit/ Eating Out Japaga. of the Velebit in the distant horizon. game fishing in the Lika River. Restaurant ALBATROS, Perušić, 22 Varoš The parish church of the Exaltation of the Holy Events Tel.: +385 (0)53 679-759, Cell.: +385 (0)98 497-407 There is a priceless wealth of underground karst Cross from the 17th century is a late Baroque - A great celebration with cultural and structures in Grabovača, even ¼ of all the church with a Gothic facade, 28 protected ele- entertainment program on the day of www.albatros-perusic.hr protected cave structures in Croatia. ments of the interior, during Turkish times the town, September 14, is organized next to Where to stay Even though the town of Perušić is situated in converted into a mosque, and after the libera- the church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross There is no hotel accomodation in Perušić. tion from the Turks again into a Catholic in Perušić. the interior of the region, it is gaining all the It is possible to get information on private church. The bell tower holds the cross from the - Canoe races, rowing regattas on the Rijeka accommodation at the Perušić Tourist Office. more touristic importance, particularly with old Zagreb cathedral restored in 1988, organ River: in May. those who love peace and the beauty of nature. dating from 1888 that was restored in 2005 and is still played at various concert events in Perušić Tourist Office the county. 53202 Perušić, 2 Trg popa Marka Mesića Lake Kruščica, situated in Ličko polje was Tel./Fax: +385 (0)53 679-233, 679-188 created in 1966 as an artificial accumulation www.tz-perusic.hr lake with an eighty-meter-high dam whose [email protected] depths hold a sunken village and the church of St. Eliah. ”Grabovača Cave Park” Public Institution Perušić, 2 Trg popa Marka Mesića Did you know? (Town Hall building) A short time after the printing machine Tel.: +385 (0)53 679-233 was invented, the Frankopan princes Cell.: +385 (0)99 212-7587 founded the first printing house in the [email protected] Kosinj area where the Glagolitic breviary www.pp-grabovaca.hr was printed in 1491, the oldest book Croatian Culture and Art Society Perušić known to have been printed on Croatian Upper picture: Lake Kruščica www.hkud-perusic.hr ground. Lower picture: Kosinj Bridge Gospić Useful Information: What to See Lika Museum, Autumn in Lika Smiljan - MC Nikola Tesla Žitnik - Ante Starčević House 7 A1 - Exit 12, Gospić

Ante Starčević Memorial Home Tel.: +385 (0)53 560-440 Adventure - Excursion Center Rizvan City is situated in the small Lika village of Rizvanuša. A unique combination of team building on the sea and mountain, paintball - the terrain is a unique forest/wood adventure park in Croatia! Brušane bb, Cell.: +385 (0)98 245-769 www.adria-velebitica.hr

Eating Out The Center of Lika-Senj County Through history, the city of Gospić had the role of traffic and military center. It was only in the 19th century that its influence in Lika started strengthening and today it is the administative and cultural center of Lika-Senj County and the center of the newly founded diocese. The city and its surroundings are mostly known Restaurant ZLATNA POTKOVA Gospić, Smiljanska b. b., Tel.: +385 (0)53 573-692 for their natural beauties. On a small area and at Getting there: From motorway A1, Exit 12, turn Activities about 500 m above sea level, there are three for Gospić. In the city there are signposts for - game fishing national parks (Plitivice Lakes, Paklenica 18 Smiljan (about 6 km from the center of Gospić) www.sru-lika-gospic.com 19 Canyon and North Velebit), a nature park where Nikola Tesla Memorial Center is situated. - organized hunting in the surrounding (Velebit), and woods - parks (Laudonov Grove Tour Plan: In the old city nucleus of Gospić you hunting grounds and Jasikovac), the vicinity of the Adriatic coast can see the statue of a young girl named Marta, - team building and areas under special ecological protection. made by sculptor Frangeša-Mihanović in - excursion to Velebit Nature Park remembrance of the introduction of the water Events Nikola Tesla - A brilliant scientist who system in 1894. There is also the cathedral of - ”Day of the City of Gospić” on July 22nd, the Motel MAKI invented the wheel of the modern age and the Annunciation of the Holy Virgin Mary built 200 Budačka, Gospić, Tel.: +385 (0)53 575-510 in 1783, Higher Teacher’s School Building built feast of St. Mary Magdalen, the patroness of ”lightened the world” was born in 1856 in www.motel-maki.hr Smiljan. He grew up and acquired his first in 1869, Murkovića Mill (an old water-mill on the city - ”Gospić Musical Summer”: from the knowledge in Gospić. The Nikola Tesla Novčica River), the house where the painter Where to stay Miroslav Kraljević was born. “beginning of June to the beginning of Memorial Center that opened in 2006 on his Hotel ANTE July, a rich choice of classical music played by 9 Jasikovačka, Gospić 150th birthday united science, art and tourism We Recommend A visit to Lika Museum in Gospić a permanent nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. Tel.: +385 (0)53 570-570 in one place. ethnographic exhibition situated inside the - Likanale has been gathering a great number Hotel ANA Ante Starčević (1823 - 1896) - ”Father of museum yard, in the special and traditional of artists since 1966 - painters, sculptors, 18 Zagrebačka, Gospić, Tel.: +385 (0)53 560-360 the Homeland”, lawyer and representative of the Lika House, a log-cabin covered with a shingle printmakers, ceramicists who have been roof and interior arrangement that follow the people, was born in Žitnik near Gospić. Exalting woven into this region by peculiar connec- Gospić Tourist Office traditional events during the seasons of the tions. Their works are part of the rich gallery Bana Ivana Karlovića 1, 53000 Gospić Croatian history and culture, he stimulated the year. Visit Nikola Tesla Memorial Center fund of Lika Musuem. Tel.: +385 (0)53 560-752, Smiljan where the house where Tesla was emancipation of Croatian self-consciousness. - ”Autumn in Lika” - at the beginning of Fax: +385 (0)53 574-784 born is situated, and a replica of the construc- [email protected] / www.tz-gospic.hr October, representative performance of tion of the testing station from Colorado Tourism Information Center, (TIC) exhibitors, their artefacts show the wealth of Springs from 1899 - 1900. Bana Ivana Karlovića 1, Tel.:+385 (0)53 560-754 the fruits, tradition and autochthonous Lika Tesla’s turbine in the stream Vaganac and the [email protected] climate and the climate of the exhibitors prototype of a boat at remote control that Lika Museum Tesla made in 1898. from the remaining parts of Lika-Senj County. Working hours for visitors: Monday - Friday The visit - climb to the home of Ante Starčević - Manifestations connected to children’s 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the locality of Veliki Žitnik at the very end of programs: First Applause, All on Rollerskates, Visits possible by appointment: the village near Lika River canyon. Children Draw Tel.: +385 (0)53 572-051 Nikola Tesla Memorial Center Information and appointments: Did you know? Tel.: +385 (0)53 746-530, Miroslav Kraljević (1885 - 1913), born in Fax: +385 (0)53 746-538 Gospić, is one of the creators of modern [email protected] Croatian painting and the most universal Upper picture: Gospić www.mcnikolatesla.hr artist from the beginning of the past Lower picture: Monument dedicated to Group visits are asked to take century. appointments earlier at Tel.: +385 (0)53 572-051 Nikola Tesla, author Mile Blažević or Fax: +385 (0)53 560-545 working days from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Karlobag Useful Information: What to See Karlobag, Terezijana 8 A1 - Exit 11, Gospić (to Karlobag)

Remains of the church of St. Karlo Boromejski built in 1710. Eating Out Lounge bar and apartments LIFE Obala Vladimira Nazora bb, Karlobag Tel.: +385 (0)53 694-917, www.life-hr.com Restaurant OK At the end of Hotel Zagreb beach. Tel.: +385 (0)53 694-185 Karlobag - Ideal Connection Pizzeria ŠUŠANJ,Vladimira Nazora 15, Karlobag, of Mountain and Sea +385 (0)53 694 126, +385 (0)91 564 8779, Tavern RIBAR, Trg Dr. Franje Tuđmana 1, Karlobag Travelling along the Adriatic coast, south of Senj, Tel.: +385 (0)53 694 008 one reaches Karlobag. A Roman colony built as Where to stay an important transport port it was called Accommodation in Karlobag is available in hotels and private apartments Vagium, Skrisia and Bigi-Bag. In 1525 the Turks have completely destroyed it by burning it to the ground. Duke Karlo had it rebuilt and thus, the city got its name. Karlobag can be Getting there: To reach Karlobag from the left from the II World War, giving the entire reached from Gospić, across Baške Oštarije. It is motorway exit at Gospić, then across the place a particular mark. The monument to 20 an unavoidable tourist destination and an occa- Velebit and Oštarijska vrata (927 m) as you Šime Starčević, the writer of the first Croatian 21 sion for a break from a long trip. Due to its descend to the sea. grammar in the Croatian language and the Mediterranean climate and the combination We Recommend parish priest in Kalrobag for almost half a cen- of sea and mountain, it is the best way Stop in Jablanac when travelling from Senj to tury (1814 - 1859) was unveiled in front of the church in 2008. He was the writer of the first for experiencing summer heat and Velebit Karlobag where Miroslav Hirtz Climber’s Lodgings is located. Miroslav Hirtz Climber’s Croatian grammar in the Croatian language hinterland freshness, all in one day. Lodgings is located in Jablanac. Many say that and a parish priest in Karlobag for almost half Hotel ZAGREB *** due to its position at 20 meters above sea level, a century (1814-1859). Karlobag, Naselje Bana J. Jelačića b.b. The Velebit Foothill Coast it is the lowest climber’s lodgings in the world. You can take panoramic pictures of the Velebit Tel.: +385 (0)53 694-777 (open only for the season) The instructive trail Terezijana, starts in Baška foothill coast from vKubus viewpoint on Sveti Juraj is 9 km south of Senj. Ribarica and Oštarija (924 meters above sea level), behind Mount Velebit representing the monument to Cesarica are small and quiet fishing and tourist the old school, and it ends above Konjsko vil- the building of the road Gospić - Karlobag at localities. Jablanac is a ferry landing for the lage (650 m above sea level). Make sure you the time of Emperor Francis Joseph. island of Rab. Lukovo Šugarje with the church visit Ravne dabre, take the Šušanj-Štirovača Events road and take Premužić path. - the International Art Colony is of St. Luke from 1733, and Barić Draga with It covers the 3-kilometer-long part of the old traditionally held every year: July campsite ”Žalo”. Prizna is a busy ferry landing Austro-Hungarian road Terezijana that crossed - Karlobag Carnival: January - February for the island of Pag and, across Pag Bridge, the the Velebit and connected the regimental cen- - fishing feasts: July and August connection towards southern Croatia. ter of the time, Gospić, with Karlobag port. - concerts and cultural - entertainment Terezijana was built in 1786 under the instruc- evenings in the church of St. Joseph: tions of Emperor Joseph II and named after his July - August mother, Mary Theresa. - automobile mountain races: June Hotel VELINAC (Youth hostel) Some of very interesting cultural monuments Activities Karlobag, 1 Trg dr. Franje Tuđmana of Karlobag are the Capuchin monastery with Sports activities, five-a-side soccer, (Atlantida Diving Tel.: +385 (0)53 694-008, www.hotel-velinac.hr valuable paintings (the Last Supper, author Club with diving training), basketball, bowling, min- Hostel VAL (open only for the season), Karlobag, unknown), the parish church of St. Joseph built igolf, Hotel Zagreb outdoor swimming pool and Vladimira Nazora 13, e- mail: [email protected] in 1712 at the time of Leopold I with architec- activities on or under the sea, hiking on the Velebit, Hostel BAŠKE OŠTARIJE, Baške Oštarije b.b., tural decorations from the 18th century, and paintball in Rizvanuša Recreation Center near Gospić the church of the mournful Mother of God. On Tel.: +385 (0)53 674 003, mob.: +385 (0)99 392 and walking on the trails in the woods. 7127, e-mail: [email protected] a hill above the locality stand the ruins of the medieval fortification “Fortica”, and the remains of the church of St. Karlo Boromejski Karlobag Tourist Office built in 1710, of which only the bell tower is 2 Trg dr. Franje Tuđmana, 53288 Karlobag Did you know? Tel./Fax: +385 (0)53 694-251 The Capuchin monastery in Karlobag with www.tz-karlobag.hr the church of St. Joseph from 1712 has a [email protected] rich library. “The Last Supper of Jesus MADI Tours Tourist Agency Christ” painting by an unknown author is 2 Trg dr. Franje Tuđmana, 53288 Karlobag particularly interesting. Karlobag Tel.: +385 (0)53 694-195 www.madi-tours.hr Lovinac - Useful Information: Sveto Brdo What to See Zir, Debeljača Cave, Sveti Rok 9 A1 - Exit 13, Gornja Ploča

Travić Lovinac Mill

Mystical and Beautiful Stone crossing across the Suvaja The municipality of Lovinac is situated in the south of Lika, on the edge of the Lika basin that is naturally connected to the fields of Gračac, in the Gospić - - Gračac triangle. A singular geographical boundary in the sub-Mediterranean area from the south, southeast and west is marked by the Velebit

massif. Remains of Japodic hillforts such as Getting there: Motorway A1, exit in the Sveti Rok and Štulić Tower in Ploča Rukavinska, Vrkljanske, Cvituša and Razvala; municipality of Lovinac in Sveti Rok and the - cave in Debeljača: found during the Rocco’s Cave 22 remains and the reconstructed Roman road Gornja Ploča junction. exploitation of stone for the construction 23 under Cvituša and the remains of the medieval Tour Plan: The easiest way to tour the Lovinac of Motorway A1 hillfort in the region of Lovinac such as Novak area is by bicycle, which can be rented in the PZ - permanent source of drinking water under Eating Out the Velebit and Resnik is the biggest natural grad with Štulić Tower, Vranik, Budak, Zagon, Lovinac Agricultural Association Building. The entire region is connected with four cycling wealth of the region: Studena source, Lukavac and Lovinac are witnesses of the trails: Ličko Polje Trail, Ričica Valley, Velebit Holjevac, Vrilo mudrosti (Source of Wisdom), century-long settling of the Lovinac region. Trail and Suvajski bunari Trail - Japode Trail. Kozjan, Kuduzovac, Vriline, Liščani bunari Today the municipality of Lovinac is best known The highest points in the municipality are the (wells) and other. for its preserved and protected natural values: Velebit peaks: Sveto brdo (1753 m above sea Activities level) and Babin vrh (1744 above sea level). - cycling, sleighing and skiing in the winter attractive natural landscape, thick and intact Natural (karst) and artificial lakes, such as the (sleighs can be let out in Restaurant Braja) woods, numerous karst phenomena, clean rivers Ričica accumulation - Štikada Lake and - summer bathing in Sveti Rok Lake and the and streams. The area of the municipality of Opsenice River - Sveti Rok Lake. rivers - hiking, free climbing and caving Lovinac covers the highest peaks of Paklenica We recommend Restaurant BRAJA National Park such as the special reserve - PZ Lovinac tasting center - hunting and fishing are very popular in the 5 Jurjevići, Sveti Rok, 53 244 Lovinac entire Lovinac region ”Sveto brdo” (Holy Mountain) and a large - Roman road under Cvituša Tel./Fax: +385 (0)53 636-173 part of Velebit Nature Park. - ”Turska kula“ (Turkish tower) in Varanik Events [email protected] - ”Zdunić kula“ in Smokrić from 1744. - Day of the municipality of Lovinac on August - stone bridge, water storage and old 4th when a competition in the traditional Where to stay school in Smokrić Lika games is organized: pulling ropes, throw- Apartments BANICA - wells and stone passages across Suvaje ing stones, throwing horseshoes, climbing the 28 Lovinac, 53244 Lovinac ”Travić“ Mlin in Lovinac from the 19 th hay stack and other. Tel.: +385 (0)53 681-028 cent. - The feast of St Rocco on August 16th is the Cell.: +385 (0)98 214-288 www.banica.info - ”Josetin“ mill at Bakovac Ričica biggest and best known religious celebration - ”Vrilo mudrosti“ in Sveti Rok, on the way to in Lika that has been traditionally celebrated the historical Alan Road across the Velebit since 1790. Municipality of Lovinac, Ulica Svetog Mihovila 11, 53244 Lovinac - Alan Road (so-called Majstorica) finished - The feast of St. Michael on September 29th is Tel/Fax: +385 53 681 005 in 1832 traditionally the biggest feast in Lovinac. www.lovinac.hr / [email protected] - Japodic hillforts: Cvituša, Vrkljanske, Did you know? Development Agency ”Sveto brdo” Rukavinska Centar 34, 53 244 Lovinac The ”Travić” mill in Lovinac was built in - medieval hillforts: the old town of Lovinac in Tel/Fax: +385 (0)53 681 005 the 19th century and has been completely Cell.: +385 (0)98 490 902 restored and in function as the regional www.lovinac.hr center for traditional wheat grinding. The www.svetobrdo.com.hr mill and the wooden bridge were restored during 2004/2005 by the inhabitants of PZ Lovinac – Tasting Center Lovinac through the activities of the www.lickikrumpir.com nongovernmental association ”Banica”. Agency Lito Lovinac Today it is one of the biggest tourist Upper picture: Sveto Brdo Sv. Mihovila 11, 53244 Lovinac attractions in Lovinac. Tel: +385 53 681 104 | +385 99 422 9292 Lower picture: Lovinac [email protected] www.lito.lovinac.hr Novalja - Useful Information: Island Pag What to See A1 - Exit 9, Žuta Lokva, Prizna - Žigljen ferry 10 A1 - Exit Posedarje

Visit Lun and the olive groves at the end of the island of Pag and along the way to the near localities - Jakišnica, Dudići, Varsan and Potočnica, situated in picturesque coves. Metajna is an interesting place, as well as the nearby localities - Zubovići, Kustići and Vidalići. Stara Novalja emerges in the warm and deeply indented bay just north from Novalja. Eating Out There are many restaurants and taverns in Novalja where you can taste the specialties Novalja - the Island Part of the Meditteranean cuisine. of the Region

Northwestern part of the island of Pag with its town of Novalja and other localities (Stara Novalja, Lun, Jakišnica, Vidalići, Kustići, Zubovići, Metajna and Gajac) are part of the Lika Senj County as well. Novalja as the tourist center on the island of Pag has been a favourite tourist destination for decades, thanks to the nat- Restaurant TOVARNELE Getting there: The island of Pag can be reached We Recommend Lun, 3 Mata, Tel.: +385 (0)91 5311-662 ural features of the area and the diversity of its in 15 minutes from the north by the ferry line - ZRĆE Beach located of 2 km from Novalja and www.lun.hr 24 tourist offer. It is well connected to the mainland Prizna - Žigljen. It is then just a 10 minute drive it disposes of an arranged parking. During 25 with its favorable geographical position with road to Novalja. the summer season there are local bus con- Where to stay The southern traffic direction, the shortest way nections with Novalja. and sea connection have made attractive tourist across Pag Bridge: from exit Posedarje to - Planjka (Trinćel) Beach is situated north Hotel LOŽA destinations closer - the islands of Rab and Novaljais 65 km away, or an hour drive by car. of Novalja, along the southeastern coast of Tel.: +385 (0)53 661-326, 661-313 www.turno.hr Lošinj, the city of Zadar and the national parks Tour Plan: With its contents and activities, the the bay of Stara Novalja. - Straško Beach (blue flag) with an auto camp Hotel LIBURNIJA of Kornati, , Plitivce Lakes, Paklenica museum of Novalja is the central cultural insti- Tel.: +385 (0)53 661-328 bearing the same name is located south of and North Velebit that can be visited as daily tution. It has a rich ethnographic collections www.turno.hr and exhibitions. Novalja, while Braničevica is right next to excursions by car or in organized arrangements. Straško. Hotel BOŠKINAC Talijanova buža (Talijan’s hole) - antique under- Tel.: +385 (0)53 663-500 Considering the fact that it is situated in the - Amphora site in the bay of Vlaška Mala in the ground water system, about 1 200 m long and www.boskinac.com central sailing directions from Kvarner towards up to 70 cm wide. The entrance is through the Velebit foothill canal: a shipwreck of a Roman merchant ship with a cargo of amphoras from Hotel LUNA Dalmatia, Novalja is visted by numerous seamen museum and only the initial part can be visited. tel: +385 (0)53 654-700 the 1st cent B.C. who stop for fuel and water for their vessels. It was built in the 1st century B.C. during the www.luna-hotel.hr Roman period and is completely carved out of Events Hotel TERRA stone. - Easter Breakfast - held in the morning hours tel: +385 (0)53 661-815 The Caska area is archeologically very interest- of Easter Monday www.hotel-terra.hr ing and recent excavations of the Roman set- - The May Feast (May) - held on the eve of May Campsite STRAŠKO tlement of Cissa have been taking place. 1st; visitors are offered domestic specialties Tel.: +385 (0)53 661-226 According to a legend, it was destroyed during prepared by the Novalja caterers. www.kampstrasko.hr an earthquake in the 4th century. - Novaljski fuštan - this is a modern fashion The archeological collection Stomorica pre- show with ethnographic elements (fuštan = serves many objects and remains of sacral part of a woman’s dress without sleeves worn objects from Novalja’s past. in earlier days of the past century). It takes Novalja Tourist Office In the 5th century Novalja was the center of place in the secondpart of May. Tourist Information Center the diocese with three big basilicas. The - The Cultural Summer of Novalja - starts on 53291 Novalja, 1 Trg Brišćić remains of a floor mosaic in one of them can the eve of the feast of St. Anthony - feast day Tel./Fax: + 385 (0)53 661-404 be seen inside the Gothic church of the Mother of Novalja on June 13th and is marked by www.visitnovalja.hr Did you know? of God from Ružaria in the center of the town. cultural and artistic, entertainment and [email protected] sports performances and lasts until September. [email protected] Zrće is the most beautiful and world- Activities known beach in Novalja with disco clubs - Cycling competition Novalja - Lun - Novalja Farm performances Tourist portal of the town of Novalja Aquarius, Kalypso, Papaya as well and mini marathon around Novalja - the exhibition of Pag sheep and Pag cheese is with a large offer of private accommodation numerous small caffé bars for daily and - We recommend the attractive locality of held in the first weekend in July. Visitors are www.novalja.info night entertainment. Zrće has a blue flag Stogaj near Metejna for climbing lovers, and invited to taste the famous Pag cheese. Stara Novalja Tourist Office which means that it satisfies high ecological those who like to hike should visit the Pag - The Lun maslinada (olive tasting) is held in Triangle in Novalja’s hinterland. Lun Jakišnica. Kaštel bb, Stara Novalja standards and is equipped with various Tel./Fax: + 385 (0)53 651-077 facilities that comply with the strict [email protected] international criteria. www.tzstaranovalja.hr Upper picture: Zrće Beach Lower picture: Novalja A somewhat modest offer of vegetables is compensated by their excellent quality. Those are Gastronomy oven-baked potatoes (Ličke pole) boiled potatoes, sour kraut, beans, turnip and kohlrabi. Simplicity and Delights of the Lika Mediterranean Cuisine Cakes are traditional, and the best known are masnica (greasy dough filled with cheese, sweet cheese with raisins, garlic and prosciutto), potato 11 pie, spinach pie, batter-fry, kuglof (pound cake) and strudel. Famous LIka batter-fry (deep-fried Many recipes derive from traditional peasant dough) is served at the and of the feast. cuisine and are original and autochthonous RENOWNED TRADITIONAL TASTES recipes of a determined region that nurses In the coastal-island area, the tastes and smell of CHEESE. Sheep, cow and goat milk from the Mediterranean cuisine prevail and abound in tradition and food preparation ”as in the old grassy Lika to the macchia on the island days”. Menus are adjusted to the seasons of the of Pag from which we get various cheese vegetables and fish. Fish and seafood are prepared year and the intensity of work. People tend to and their cuisine used in the making of in various ways: boiled, baked, stewed, marinated eat less during the winter, and from spring to various salty and sweet specialties. or other, with plenty of spices and vegetables - Well-known cheeses: škripavac, basa, mostly garlic, parsley, Swiss chard, broad beans, autumn when working in the fields they tend to Krasno and Pag cheese. eat more and diversely. various filed cabbages and seasonal vegetables. The continental and coastal part of the region Asparagus is a specialty prepared in various ways have different gastronomic features and recipes, POTATOES. Potatoes have been the main with various foods. but areas within the region have their own food in Lika and are most often used in Meat - mostly veal, young beef, chicken, turkey recipes with similar or identical ingredients used the preparation of dishes. Well-known dishes: potatoes with bacon, and the particular specialty - lamb from Pag is in food preparation. The difference lies in skills potatoes with all types of sauces, roasted prepared in various ways and served with an and preparation methods. potatoes and pole (potatoes baked in abundance of side dishes. half). In the continental region, dried and smoked Macaroni on a needle is a specialty in Novalja, meat such as Lika prosciutto, served at every feast along with larded baby beef wether mutton, boar meat or paprika flavored or goulash. sausages, blood sausages and meat sausages are LAMB. Lamb from Lika and Pag is known by far for its taste and smell. It is tradi- Among the traditional sweets are plain fritters, usually prepared and eaten as hors-d’oeuvres or tionally prepared on an open fire or in a added to various dishes such as cabbage, beans, pot combined with various other meats. hrostuli, various cakes according to the old-time Well-known dishes: spit-roasted lamb, recipes, and the particular specialty is strudel with 26 stuffed sour kraut (sarma). Various processed 27 cabbage and meat stew or boiled lamb, curd cheese. meats such as veal thymus or cracklings are also Lika pot. made, as well as jellies, or, as the inhabitants of However the most famous product from this part like call it - dželadija. In fish-pond Leko in of the region is the famous Pag cheese that owes its Sinac near Otočac, one can find an entire particular taste to the salt sprinkled grass grazed variety of trout products, smoked or marinated FISH. Trout from clean rivers and lakes in Lika (Gacka) and sea fish from the island by the island sheep. fillet, and an trout caviar, which is an excellent of Pag are excellent specialties for the Healthy climate and intact nature offer the specialty of this region. lovers of a “light” cuisine. Well-known dishes: baked and boiled possibility of a pleasant vacation away from the On the Gacka River in Sinac there is a renewed trout, trout pâté, marinated fish from city flurry and are another reason to come here mill where one can see how wheat was once Pag. again. ground. Bread, as basic food, was once baked by covering it with ashes and live coals from the fireplace, and later, with the use of a baking lid, OLIVE OIL - an unavoidable and bread under the baking lid became a specialty. insufficiently used dressing in the coastal - island part of the region. Olive growing Developed cattle breeding enriched the Lika has grown more popular every year and table with excellent dairy products, particularly it is present on dining tablesas the dress- milk (consumed fresh or sour varenika or kiseli- ing for fish dishes, as well as boiled and freshed vegetables. na), often with bread soaked in it, as well as and cream cheeese. Lika škripanac, a semi-hard cow cheese made from skimmed milk is a very www.lika-gastro.com famous cheese used in preparation of the DRINKS. According to tradition, a sip of homemade grappa is welcome before traditional called presnac. Another well known every meal: šljivovica (plum, juniper or sheep chees is Lika basa, which is sour milk or grape brandy), and, depending on the A Taste of the Mountains and region, the meal usually ends with Velebit the Sea - gastronomy guide cream added to boiled milk, and once it hardens of the Lika-Senj region. it is placed in a celan gauze and strained. One beer or a glass of Pag wine - žutica. dish that is often found on a dining table in lika is cicvara - a cornmeal boild in milk and butter. Gacka Cookbook - traditional food and recipes from Otočac. Lika-Senj County Tourist Board

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Publisher: Lika-Senj County Tourist Board, Editors: Ankica Grabašnjak, Hrvoje Mudrovčić, Production: Basic Produktion d.o.o. Art Director: Julije Skelin, Text: Mirjana Tepšić, Translation: Presto centar, Photographs: Photo gallery HTZ, Press: Vemako tisak- Zagreb