Info - English: Holiday Studio Molvice – “Green House”

Info - English: Holiday studio Molvice – “Green House”

Tip: This document contains many practical tips and many links to beautiful and interesting locations. Download the file on your phone. When you open it as a PDF you can always click on the Google Maps link and you can easily find your location.

WHO ARE WE? Welcome to holiday apartment "The Green House". Owners are René and Helga Pronk. Since 2013 we have been living in Croatia. We live near the Kupa River in the little village of Pribanjci. You are very welcome to stop by for a refreshing dip or to view our photo gallery. We also sell home craft souvenirs. We will gladly send you the link if you want to visit. In Croatia we run a translation agency, a small agricultural natural products company and a foundation that looks after the lonely people in the deserted areas. Part of the proceeds from the apartment where you are staying will therefore go to our "Strength for Croatia" foundation. René is a landscape photographer and also organizes photo tours. The apartment is is run by Nenad and Zorica Jambrovic and they live above the apartment. We really appreciate it if you want to write something down in our guestbook after your stay. For more info see our websites: www.pronkpictures.com www.croatiancountrylife.com DAYTOURS WITH RENÉ There are different kind of tours that we can organize for you in our 4wd skoda. René is your host and driver all day long and takes you to some of the most beautiful and photogenic places. Please check our website for more detailed information: http://www.pronkpictures.com/?page_id=1992

HOW TO REACH US & REGISTRATION For questions you can always contact us via whats app: 0038598 9976464 (Zorica) 00385 97 711 5363 (René) 00385 97 711 5433 (Helga) We hope that you will have a wonderful, relaxing and blessed time in our apartment. Your host and hostess are Nenad and Zorica Jambrovic. Zorica speaks English and shows you around the apartment. You will also receive the key from her and you can make further arrangements regarding your stay.

IMPORTANT: On the day of arrival, please let Zorica know what time you expect to arrive. If they are not present, they will agree with you where you can find the key. This is Zorica's number: 0038598 9976464

IMPORTANT: We are required to register all our guests in the tourist register of the Croatian government within 24 hours after your arrival . The easiest way is if you take a clear photo of your ID card or passport and send it to us via whats-app, messenger or viber. LOCATION AND DIRECTIONS

Vinogradi 7, Molvice (Samobor) Pay attention. The house is located above the village on the hill. Street entrance is at coffee house Milecki. Parking is possible under the roof. Note that the street is narrow. When driving out, be careful not to get off the road. When driving out, also be careful not to hit the center post!

Coming from Samobor follow signs for Galgovo.

 google maps: https://goo.gl/maps/MJG1WvxwCRAiCvDA7

 Navigation: 45°45'56.4"N 15°44'11.2"E

Tip: Next to the house is lavender and lemon mellise. Grab a few twigs and put it next to your bed or gently rub your skin with it. Works very well against mosquitoes.

THE JOURNEY

Molvice is about 1400 kilometers from Utrecht. The most "quiet" route is via Liege, Pirmasens /Landau, Frankfurt, Passau, Graz, Maribor, Zagreb. This route does have more kilometers. When you drive through Germany on a Saturday, you are hardly bothered by freight traffic. But in the summer months it is of course extra busy with holiday traffic. Fuel prices are sky high on the Austrian motorway. However, if you go into the villages you will often pay 30 cents per liter less (Make sure you are not too close to a motorway entrance or exit.) In Austria you need a vignette for eight days. This costs around 9 euros. You need a vignette for the Slovenian highway. A vignette for 1 week costs 15 euros. But you can also choose to drive the short distance from Maribor via the GPS "avoid toll roads". The journey then takes 2 hours longer and you will drive via Trakoscan Castle. This is a Schengen border crossing only. The stretch from the Croatian border to the toll sports of Zapresic is a toll road. You can save money and avoid the most expensive stretch of this road and take the "Zabok" exit and then follow the county road to Zagreb. With a combi van or roof box on your you have to pay the double amount of toll on Croatian toll roads.

If you enter Croatia via the border town of Bregana, please note that it can be quite busy on this border in the summer months. Its worth the effort to take the Brezice / Catez exit and continue along the road until you reach the small border crossing. Here is the location of the small border crossing. It saves you time and money because you also avoid 1 euro toll. https://goo.gl/maps/dS6c3M7LjqBCpswm9

Tip: PLEASE NOTE FROM 2019 YOU CAN ONLY VISIT NATIONAL PARK PLITVICE IF YOU BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE. MINIMUM TWO DAYS IN ADVANCE. EVERY DAY THERE IS A MAXI- MUM NUMBER OF VISITORS! YOU SHOULD OBEY YOUR SPECIFIED TIME SO COME ON TIME!

THE APARTMENT The apartment is in a beautiful quiet location in the vineyards of Molvice. Six kilometers from the picturesque town of Samobor and about 18 kilometers from Zagreb. The total space of the apartment is approximately 30 m2. It is not a super large apartment but everything is there. The big advantage is that the apartment is partially buried in the hill. This ensures pleasant cooling on hot summer days. The apartment is located on top of a hill with a beautiful view over the Zumberak and Medvescak nature reserves at the front and back. There is a lovely terrace where you can sit and enjoy until the late hours. You can also light a fire on cooler evenings. Ask Nenad for some wood. You can park your car under the roof. Pay attention when parking in and / or out. The road is narrow!

RATES We use very competitive rates so that we can bless you with a cheap yet high-quality stay. The rates apply for a minimum stay of two nights:  Low season per night for two persons: 25 euro  High season per night for two persons: 30 euro (July and August)  Missionaries: receive a standard 5 euro discount per night. We will provide you a bill for your stay, we will send it to you digitally. We have no influence over the extra booking percentage by booking.com

WIFI / INTERNET

Unlimited internet is available. Code: 80360316

INTERIOR OF THE APARTMENT  Two single beds (duvets and towels included) extra blankets in the cupboard  Two comfy chairs  Dining table with chairs  Wardrobe  Towels  Microwave  All necessary kitchen equipment, cutlery, pots and pans.  Toaster  Coffee machine (senseo)  Water cooker  Smart tv

 Terrace set IMPORTANT We would like to draw your attention to the following matters that are important for a pleasant stay in the apartment.  No chemicals: The apartment has an ecological septic. It is important that you do not deposit chlorine, bleach, make-up cleaners and hair color rinses down the drain.  Makeup: Do not use towels to remove makeup or nail polish!  Cooking and baking: Because you sleep and live in the same room, we kindly request you not to make fish dishes or spicy dishes due to the smell. Please use the extractor hood when cooking.  Outside grill and wood: Do you want to light a fire outside or use the grill as a barbecue? You can buy timber through Nenad for a small voluntary contribution. We provide a clean bbq grid for every guest to combat bacteria. This can also be obtained from Nenad or Zorica and costs five euros.  Laundry service: Would you like to have your clothes washed? Just ask Zorica. This comes to 5 euros each time (including drying). If you also want to have the laundry ironed, € 7.50 will be added. If you stay longer than three days and you do not have enough towels, please report this to Zorica.  Ventilation: Because the apartment is partially buried, ventilation is an absolute must. Leave one

window on the tilt position as often as possible. Feel free to ask for a fan if you like to cool the apartment.  Garden furniture: Please be so kind to put the cushions of the garden set indoors when it rains.  Waste: We separate waste; plastic, glass and paper. Please note that bottles and soda cans in Croatia contain a deposit. So don't throw them away! You can put the remaining waste in the green container at the top under the roof. Unfortunately, there is no provision for bio-waste. This must therefore also be disposed of with the residual waste.  Coffee pods and toilet paper: Coffee pads for the Senseo are a rarity in Croatia. They can only be obtained from the Muller drugstore chain. So bring your favorite pads from the Netherlands. Toilet paper is available for the first days.  Pets: Dogs are not permitted in the apartment.  Damages: Please report if a glass or plate is broken. You do not have to reimburse this. Any other kind of damage please report before your departure. TIPS: ZUMBERAK AND SAMOBORSKE GORJE Between Ozalj and Samobor lies the Zumberak / Samoborske Gorje nature park. The Samobor side is steep and rough. The area near Ozalj is hillier with many vineyards and beautiful views. In the apartment you will find information brochures and a map of the nature park. Bustling streams outside of Samobor: https://goo.gl/maps/BbJ38i3dz6L7U3hx9 About a 20-minute drive from Samobor you follow the county road to Bregana, just before the border turn left for Zumberak Nature Park. You drive through a beautiful wooded area with bustling streams to the left or right. The streams have a few nice places to stop. Especially on hot days it is great for a picnic and shade. Please note that someone can come and ask for a small fee for parking. The link is just one of the places but there are a few more of them. Slapnica waterfall hike: https://goo.gl/maps/YY5GDBakSek In the heart of the nature park. A nine kilometer walk along a beautiful stream with waterfalls. Not steep and wonderfully refreshing on hot summer days. At the end of the trail there is the water mill of grandma Nada. Park your car first past the gravel quarry and just follow the road. Note the bend over the stream over the bridge. The bridge has no railing !!! A beautiful waterfall in the Zumberak: https://goo.gl/maps/hfetXoLZP252 Do you want to discover a nice quiet spot in the Zumberak? Nice and cool especially on a hot day. Then visit the Sopot waterfall. You can have a nice picnic and enjoy the many butterflies.

Old ruin of Zumberak Castle: https://goo.gl/maps/5RN3VpNPERw If you take the road up from Sopot you can as well decide to visit the castle ruins of the Zumberak. Note the roads are steep and narrow but asphalted. Park your car and continue on foot to the old castle. Note this castle is also part of the castle route that you find elsewhere in this map.

Rent an electric bike in the nature park: https://goo.gl/maps/xTdYj8MZNvP2 At the Budinjak eco park, at one of the higher points in the Zumberak, you can rent electric bicycles. You must call ahead to make a reservation: 00385 (0) 1 3327 677 or 00385 (0) 99 426 4731. The drive from Bregana is almost an hour on narrow mountain roads. But well worth it. You can also take an educational walk near the Budinjak centre.

Japetic mountain top: https://goo.gl/maps/Et615hTkqs52 The top of the Japetic mountain gives you an astonishing view. Soup is served in the mountain hut and one can see hang gliders on Saturday. Take the road to Sipacki Breg (super steep) and continue the road to Draganos. Halfway you can park the car and walk 3 kilometers to the top. Is not steep nor difficult. The link is the place where you have to park and walk further: (there is a red small sign with japetic)

Okic ruin: https://goo.gl/maps/dvuagQ95do6Guh1YA Not far and a beautiful walking route with some climbing. The castle can be seen from the front. You can park your car at the mountain club. Here you can also eat or drink something during the weekend.

Zumberacki Raj restaurant: https://goo.gl/maps/qMFm3pFr4SK2 Do you want good and affordable food at a nice place in nature in the middle of the Zumberak? A simple dish with trout, fries and lettuce. Everything fresh!

Lovic Prekriski look out: https://goo.gl/maps/Sz5Bsq9zfwy A beautiful hilltop with fascinating views.

Sveta Gera: https://goo.gl/maps/Wz2z22Sf4Js Do you want to go up the highest mountain in the Zumberak? If you have a good car you can go all the way to the top but the last kilometers are unpaved. You can also park your car in Sekulica and walk up the beautiful route. At Lagotto’s peak you can search for truffles with special trained lagotto dogs on request.

Culig Winery: https://goo.gl/maps/SqF6BxkMEmo The lovely side of the Zumberak. Small hill and lots of vineyards. The village of Vrhovac has a nice walk that starts at the church. But you can also relax on the terrace of winery Culig and enjoy the beautiful view and from there pick up the hiking route.

TIPS: WALKS NEAR THE APARTMENT

There are no marked hiking trails in Molvice. However, you can walk practically everywhere over the beautiful hills and through the valleys. There are three valleys where you can go by car. Park at the start and you can take a few simple walks and you take the same way back.  At the church of Molvice you walk into the valley and at the end there is a beautiful authentic wooden winery. If the owner is there (Antun Zupancic) feel free to try a glass of wine.https://goo.gl/maps/SmVEhrxTPGE2  Valley no. 2: https://goo.gl/maps/ZP94CUmWp8L2  Valley no. 3: https://goo.gl/maps/NLnpgvFsrv6TabBv7

The village Sveta Nedelja has some marked trails.

TIPS: IN AND AROUND SAMOBOR A lovely town with a beautiful old square with many nice terraces. Loved by many because of the "cremeschnitte"

Mlin iz Bajke: https://goo.gl/maps/ymoTesiMbGuk4rfB8 If you take the road to Bregana you will see the sign “Mlin iz Bajke” after about two kilometers. The mill has been completely restored and you can also come here for ecological flour. Mainly focused on parties but the location is nice for a visit.

Small botanical garden: Between Cerje and Manja Vas there is a small botanical garden on the ridge.

Old mine in Rude: https://goo.gl/maps/4m3JzXLqu7QhzSCXA In the village of Rude you can visit a former mine that is open to the public. For up-to-date information and opening times, please check the tourist information on the square in Samobor.

Watchtower with great views on Samobor: https://goo.gl/maps/daPCZNgZ4qN2

Take a walk in the bark to the old castle ruin of Samobor: https://goo.gl/maps/2cVMLnF5LEC2 Park your car (paid) at hotel Lavica and walk along the narrow river towards the castle.

TIPS: PLACES TO EAT IN AND AROUND SAMOBOR

There are various restaurants around the central square. We mention a few restaurants. But beware there are many more!

Tip: In many places in Croatia a "gablec" is served during workdays (also often on Saturdays) between 10.30 am and 12 noon. These are the meals for the workers but everyone can sit down with them and enjoy a cheap and big meal. It is a substantial hot meal, often with a choice of three or four dishes, mostly meat, fries or potatoes and a salad, accompanied by fresh bread. The price per person is usually between 25 and 40 kuna. So that is between three and five euros. Take a light breakfast, and then enjoy the Croatian rhythm of an early hot meal. The portions are very generous and plentiful!

 Lavica hotel: https://goo.gl/maps/b6Y8SowYs662 (best and most extensive choice in nice ambiance on weekends often full)

 Pizzeria Kod Tomica: https://goo.gl/maps/CXXJbFDGU9EhU2cA7

 Pancakes/crepes: https://goo.gl/maps/o3vC6VnbKMm

 Pri staroj Vuri: https://goo.gl/maps/BZgHKWSLgnTrLvAm6 (serves reasonable range of vegetarian food)

 Kod Spilje: https://goo.gl/maps/BZgHKWSLgnTrLvAm6 (at the town of Ostrucevec. Great food but at a slightly higher price. Beautiful location.)

 Slava Gora: https://goo.gl/maps/EaankHrsZTRQ685p7 (beautiful location, somewhat pricey, steep road up)

TIPS: SHOPPING IN AND AROUND SAMOBOR

Supermarket Kiki is down in the village and supplies almost everything you need. You can only pay in cash. Open seven days per week. https://goo.gl/maps/YW8eRqjoh9t

Market: Every day there is a fresh market where you can buy organic vegetables and products at various stalls. This is the (paid) parking: https://goo.gl/maps/aMnuyg5jbrH2 Market: https://goo.gl/maps/W5fNoYvXetu

Bakery: Nearest bakery is “Noc I Dan”, open from early in the morning till late at night. (4 kilometer, drive direction Samobor) Whole grain bread is called: “integralno” https://goo.gl/maps/G9L1C5DtWeu

Supermarkets in Samobor:  Lidl: https://goo.gl/maps/kg4FcoQs1d32  Konzum: https://goo.gl/maps/cx3tvSVztUx  Plodine: https://goo.gl/maps/U9pQQMYyh9Q2  Kaufland: https://goo.gl/maps/NPLFCnKMpUK2 (also your easiest way to the nearest ATM)

Great shopping Mall in Samobor: https://goo.gl/maps/cx3tvSVztUx

IMPORTANT SERVICES & FACILITIES IN SAMOBOR

 Police: https://goo.gl/maps/HieyPgTnbTsShUq4A  Tourist Information: https://goo.gl/maps/mLFQ9BksPEbJpR3E9  First aid and medical Centre: https://goo.gl/maps/HieyPgTnbTsShUq4A  Veterinary: https://goo.gl/maps/nKRFNggHtft  Outdoor swimming pool: https://goo.gl/maps/hwSEkJftNap  Post office: https://goo.gl/maps/JJxhfTgAxMs

TIPS: A DAY OUT IN ZAGREB

Zagreb has a lot to offer and has the largest museum density in the world. The prices at the café’s and restaurants are very affordable. The heart of Zagreb is the Ban Jelacic.

The old city near to the main square with the wonderful cathedral: https://goo.gl/maps/Rc7ZqDyma3kZPUZo7

The most picturesque street is called Tkalčićeva ulica, https://goo.gl/maps/osoXXXVpJdxKmAH4A lots of nice cafes and bars.

Take the funicular to the upper town: https://goo.gl/maps/w1RYZCD62GSwtgjC8

In the very handy guide "zagreb in your pocket" you will find all useful tips, fun festivals and outings. https://www.inyourpocket.com/zagreb

Or try this: www.infozagreb.hr

Zagreb Zoo: Zagreb has a number of beautiful parks. The Maksimir park is certainly one of Europe's most beautiful parks. The zoo is located in the middle of the park. Your entry ticket is only four euros! It is a nice zoo with a good restaurant as well. Please note there is no parking facility. The most practical thing is to park your car on Hondlova (free) and then walk to the zoo in ten minutes. The traffic in Maksimir is always very busy.

Entrance to the zoo: .https://goo.gl/maps/hfp8Xsss7Wy. Easy free parking Hondlova: https://goo.gl/maps/6FgDaBUcigF2 (700 meters from the entrance of the zoo)

Zagreb city lakes: Jarun: https://goo.gl/maps/kDyrSTtBGY12 Bundek: https://goo.gl/maps/kDyrSTtBGY12 Take the tram to the centre from: Summer is not that busy in the city. Why not take the tram. It is most convenient to park your car in Precko and then take line 17. https://goo.gl/maps/e5weSSQnS5y

At the Tisak stores you can buy cheap tickets for the tram but also at the driver.

Going by car to the city centre: Roofed parking at Cvjetni. https://goo.gl/maps/ZZ33EFnAggT197CRA

Do you want to park even cheaper and not drive all the way into the center, but still walk a little. Then choose this location on the “Trg Francuske Republike.” You then walk straight on to Ilica and turn right at the end of the road. After a ten minute walk you are in the heart of Zagreb! https://goo.gl/maps/nuxyUZ9aoxrD3txg8

TIPS: SHOPPING IN ZAGREB

Free parking at all malls:

 Nearest one: City Centar One West https://goo.gl/maps/u99wAnisMrCsvUEPA

 Biggest variety: Arena Centar: https://goo.gl/maps/EjinbU7R2F5hXw5n7 (Has a food court as well)

 Huge! Westgate. Be careful not to continue until after the toll booths but take the second exit from Zapresic (Fontana). This is the largest shopping center in Europe! https://goo.gl/maps/uVjrxjsyUirbbJZYA

TIPS: GO FOR A SWIM

Svetojansje Toplice: https://goo.gl/maps/6ceqYQoHGHxSuJDD7 Here you will find the Jana factories. About a 40 minute drive. In good weather you can take a wonderfully healthy bath in the basin. This is free of charge (note there are no changing cabins). The water is always 21 degrees and bubbles fresh from the ground. The basin is small but cozy with many locals. There is very little parking space.

Public Swimming pool Samobor: https://goo.gl/maps/gD8BcVRCr12khDek9 In Samobor itself there is a small swimming pool at the end of the city park. Look on google maps for the current opening times and prices or on www.samobor.hr.

Beautiful river Krka: https://goo.gl/maps/LuLGcJ7JZJtNvLUD6

Try the Krka river in Slovenia. The river is fairly clean. Boats can also be rented at various locations. Remember to always take the small border crossing at Bregana. This is the link to the border crossing: https://goo.gl/maps/PciKVHg6FkCFBEMJ9

On the motorway, take the Catez exit if you are heading towards Ljubljana. tap on your GPS Velike Malence and then Dolenja Pirošica. You drive very close to the Krka river. If you then drive to Cerklje ob Krki you will cross an old wooden bridge. There are swimming places on both sides of the river.

If you drive a little further you will come to the wonderful village of Kostanjevica na Krki with a very beautiful church and wonderful city park.

ADVENTURE: RAFTING & ROWING

Rowing on Mreznica river: https://goo.gl/maps/wBNW8qajPNY1w6Ui8 Of the four rivers around Karlovac, the Mreznica is the most beautiful and spectacular. You have to drive for a while but then you can enjoy your adventure. At the Zeleni Kut restaurant you can go canoeing on the Mreznica yourself. The rent is not expensive. Ancient bridge at Tounj: https://goo.gl/maps/xTnczw6Mosk If you drive further after Zeleni Kut you will come to this beautiful double bridge over the river Tounj. Highly recommended to sit and enjoy.

Rowing on Kupa river: https://goo.gl/maps/Fi6u9JRH2B3YBy6F6 At the Slovenian border at the café you can rent a canoe. The river is slow and shallow here. So safe for your kids. Rafting on Mreznica river: https://goo.gl/maps/RSCS2hAjUuNcupLR6 Make a booking with the Terra Croatia company. They are situated in Zvecaj . English an professional guidance. You can choose from the upper or lower reaches of the river. The upper parts are less wild and it is also a bit sunnier because you are not going through canyons. You can call Natasja Lalic: 0038591 9248208. She will be waiting for you at restaurant DP:

TIPS: BEAUTIFUL VIEWS IN PLESIVICA

Less than half an hour's drive from Molvice you will find yourself in the beautiful wine region of Plesivica. From Molvice you drive straight across the ridge of the Zumberak to this beautiful area. There are two beautiful viewpoints. The first is at Ivancic, a bright blue restaurant. Have a coffee on the terrace outside: https://goo.gl/maps/HgEFv5TC97w.

Then you can continue to Soskic. A winegrower with a beautiful house on a hill. His wine is ecological. Soskic is always very busy but when he is home you can probably buy a nice bottle of wine: https://goo.gl/maps/NN669RHK6RA2.

Are you in for a delicious piece of organic cheese, drop by at Sestak: https://goo.gl/maps/pEovfjtpkqH2.

Finish your trip through Plesivica with a beautiful view from the Sumski Dvor. This restaurant is only open on weekends. But the view is beautiful anyway: https://goo.gl/maps/681aQYVnCYt.

Do you fancy a fresh dive among the locals ... Then just drive to the Jana source. There is a small basin with always fresh clear spring water that is always 21 degrees: https://goo.gl/maps/JAjNMDaQrQG2. Limited amount of parking spaces, not organized. Not locker rooms.

After your trip through Plesivica you can go down to Jastrebarsko. Here you will also find some nice restaurants. A picturesque town with a beautiful city park for a nice walk on a warm summer day. Park at Lidl supermarket and cross the bridge: https://goo.gl/maps/SaJ2jHudDdo

TIPS: SWIMMING IN THE RIVERS

On beautiful days the beautiful rivers of Croatia offer wonderful cooling. Within an hour's drive from Molvice you can choose from many beautiful and idyllic places.

Jurovo: https://goo.gl/maps/RdGrD4LVNwM2 Here is a slide and a rope as well to jump into the river.. If you swim across the river to Slovenia, there is a campsite with a snack bar. Would you like to row on the Kupa later in the day? Then drive a few more kilometers to Pravutina. You can rent cheap boats at this bar: https://goo.gl/maps/e5weSSQnS5y

Near Jurovo there are two beautiful swimming spots. Petrinski Kut at Orljakovo is very beautiful and green. There are benches and a bbq: https://goo.gl/maps/RdGrD4LVNwM2 Go over the train track and turn right at the sign "Kupaliste".

You can also choose the place at Bubnjarci where there is an old watermill and a ruin. An nice quiet and pretty location with a small waterfall and shallow water. https://goo.gl/maps/RdGrD4LVNwM2

In the city of Ozalj you can enjoy a nice city beach just next to the hydroelectric power station. In the summer Ozalj hosts various concerts and shows: https://goo.gl/maps/kMaCFqN7JQL2 Visit the beautiful castle. Walk on to the look out. It is free of charge. A train passes underneath: https://goo.gl/maps/9BcBjkuhN5v

The Mreznica river is the most beautiful of the four rivers in Karlovac province. Go to Zeleni Kut at Zvecaj. There you can rent a cheap boat, enjoy a drink in the nice restaurant and swim at the waterfalls: https://goo.gl/maps/mSurWNaep9z

The Dobra River is somewhat colder. But the place at Grdun is very nice with a waterfall and also a restaurant and bar. There is also an old water mill that is still intact. The old wooden bridge over the Dobra is also very beautiful. Please be very careful as the water current can suddenly change: https://goo.gl/maps/4SwoMQ86Unr

After swimming in the Dobra, restaurant Zganjer is worth a visit. They serve great traditional dishes and the famous Frankopan cake is a house specialty. https://goo.gl/maps/UeNT9HrbpNo

TIPS FOR TRIPS IN SLOVENIA

Brezice is about half an hour from Molvice. Here you can do your shopping as well and more cheapler at Lidl and Hofer (Aldi). You can also visit the swimming pools of Catez near Brezice: https://goo.gl/maps/qUWnSzWkZej4uizV7

Fifteen minutes from Brezice there is a very nice wine region where you can take great walks (quite steep). Starting point can be Bizelsko. Or just tour through this area with its many vineyards and see where you end up. Recommended! https://goo.gl/maps/imiMmnStGk1fWBpK6

There is a very beautiful nature park in Slovenia not far from Crnomelj. It is called Lahinja. There is a circular walk with signs: https://goo.gl/maps/NHK6qEZ2MhK2 Visit the source of the small Lahinja river: https://goo.gl/maps/puzvtyv1hPv. If you want to eat really tasty pizza afterwards, go to Vinica to restaurant Pavlicu. The menu is only in Slovenian but the waiter can help you in English. The large pizza is really enough for two people: https://goo.gl/maps/zoWYSviMLhx

Slovenia has its own Jerusalem. A fascinatingly beautiful wine region with various good restaurants and wine tasting options. Combine this visit with the Medimurje region because they are practically adjacent to each other: https://goo.gl/maps/v4NRSBoDb5v

Hikes along the Kupa river: https://goo.gl/maps/rBeW5ejGFVz In the village of Radenci you can go for a walk directly along the kupa. Only for hikers.

Source of Krupa: https://goo.gl/maps/SZYcdpXFxrm A very nice place in Slovenia, an unexpected pearl of nature. Good to combine with a visit to the Lahinja Park. Park your car at the glass containers and cross the road and then just a three minutes’ walk to the source of the shortest river of Slovenia. Take a moment to enjoy it or bring your pick nick basket. Those who are patient enough can see kingfishers. In the village itself there is guest house where they can serve you a coffee and a pastry on request. This is the guesthouse: https://goo.gl/maps/bjKq6QoTXxS2

If you want to enjoy more beautiful views after this visit, take the route to Semic through the vineyards towards Dolenjske Toplice.

Skofja Loka is a very beautiful town with an ancient history. Eight kilometers from this very picturesque town you can take the road up by car to Krizna Gora. Here you can enjoy a beautiful view over the Slovenian Alps. There is also a very nice and good restaurant where with very affordable and tasty dishes. The vegetarian dish is an absolute must. https://goo.gl/maps/178VjNtYBy52

TIPS: ZAGORJE

Trakoscan Castle: https://goo.gl/maps/VvCTUxdAHcC2 Trakoscan ... The most beautiful castle in Croatia in a fairytale environment. You take the toll road towards Krapina and take the exit Trakoscan. You can visit this very beautiful castle. Don’t forget to stroll around the beautiful lake. Entrance fee and parking fees!

Varazdin: https://goo.gl/maps/FQxqYRYyHQgeHYGX7 A very nice and beautiful baroque city. Definitely worth a visit. It was once the capital of Croatia, but is now mainly populated by its many students. Lots of terraces with cheap coffee and pastries. Visit the old castle and the city walls can still be seen.

Under Varazdin is the old castle Kalnik. Well worth a visit with great views and a nice eatery at the top.https://goo.gl/maps/L9BkcwqrNRG2

Visit the birhtplace of former Yugoslav leader Tito. The village of Kumrovec now hosts an open air museum. https://goo.gl/maps/8TZvh1wcyJHkhyoj7 Vuglec Breg is a nice place for coffee and lunch in a wonderful setting: https://goo.gl/maps/3gzfKxyT75UcssSm6

Old Castle Veliki Tabor: https://goo.gl/maps/TLnrnnf1veT2

Therme Tuhelj: https://goo.gl/maps/7RXs3USggo72. Great indoor and outdoor pools and spa.

Krapinksi Toplice: great spa: https://goo.gl/maps/7RXs3USggo72 Mountain top Medvednica: https://goo.gl/maps/3gzfKxyT75UcssSm6 Drive to the highest mountain near Zagreb. A winding road with some nice cafes on the way. You can start the route from Zagreb itself but it is best to take the route from Strmec Stubicki: https://goo.gl/maps/3gzfKxyT75UcssSm6. Here you will also find a pizzeria (Oro Boro) with huge and cheap pizzas. Very busy on weekends! https://goo.gl/maps/Si4qqfL8wbT3CdGF7 The largest shopping center in Europe is Westgate. It is located just before the toll sports. Please take the exit “Fontana”: https://goo.gl/maps/tfjD9XSHDgSgNS567

TIPS: MEDIMURJE

The most prosperous and picturesque region in Croatia. There are many well-maintained vineyards and a few excellent restaurants. Just fun to tour and enjoy by car. See where you end up and what you experience.

Restaurant Terbotz we found a great place with beautiful entourage where you can have great quality meals for reasonable prices: https://goo.gl/maps/hvrAwZt6Fsput19B6

A very nice place on the Mura where you can enjoy and swim is this: https://goo.gl/maps/hvrAwZt6Fsput19B6. There is also a tour boat in summer and an old water mill with restaurant. Recommended!

Pools of Sveti Martin, beautiful location and great outdoor pools. https://goo.gl/maps/CEmgvHw68mCFgKNu9

The Maderka hill offers a beautiful view and a great place for a picnic: https://goo.gl/maps/CEmgvHw68mCFgKNu9

Near Lendava (Slovenia), a modern watchtower is placed in the vineyards with fascinating views. You can also drink coffee there. Admission is expensive (eight euros per person.) https://goo.gl/maps/8wkLEpynpoaNghHZ8

TIPS: GORSKI KOTAR

A rugged low mountain range that can easily be reached via the Zagreb-Rijeka highway. Please note: from mid-July to mid-August, this highway is very busy on Saturdays and Sundays!

Kamacnik: https://goo.gl/maps/DxjNdype7Tu Do you want to discover the beautiful and rough nature of Gorski Kotar. This is a must! Near the river Dobra you can take a nice walk on the tributary of the Kamacnik river, with steep cliffs. At the parking is a very nice restaurant where you can relax outside at the waterfall. Very affordable daily menus are served. Via the toll road towards Rijeka. Low entrance fee.

Zeleni Vir: https://goo.gl/maps/UYftCpM6nMH2 A visit to this beautiful park with waterfalls and climbing a real "canyon" with sometimes slippery trails is highly recommended. You see beautiful salamanders everywhere. Take a sweater with you! The road to the canyon is very narrow and on some stretches two cars cannot pass. Admission must be paid.

Cogrljevo Jezero: https://goo.gl/maps/nczM3hqVmgk A beautiful small lake from which five springs originate. It is the main artery of the Dobra River.

Kupa river source: https://goo.gl/maps/xJrmYgoMb51G9fbV9

A long strenuous and descending hike to the source of the Kupa River in Risnjak National Park is highly recommendable. You pay admission for a day ticket to gain entrance to the national park. Bring good footwear!

Orlova Stejna: https://goo.gl/maps/44EfhNBU2BtgZ3bo8 A great viewpoint, short walk to the summit from where you park your car.

Sabljacki Jezero in Ogulin en Šmitovo jezero: https://goo.gl/maps/F9mzR174rAFUHtBMA The large lake at Ogulin is loved by swimmers and day trippers. This is the parking where you can have a picnic under the trees.

A little further you can visit a beautiful clear blue lake. If you look closely you can see the shape of a heart in the lake: https://goo.gl/maps/F9mzR174rAFUHtBMA

TIPS: LIKA

Lika is a rugged but lovely area that starts at the town of Otocac. Here you can enjoy the lovely Gacka River. The river lends itself to beautiful walks. You can also enjoy some parts of the river by canoe. Here you can rent a canoe: https://goo.gl/maps/9v7ZzaCmVANXSYH86

Go a little further to the sources of the Gacka river where there are still working old water mills. A beautiful place with a pizzeria serving great pizzas: !https://goo.gl/maps/9v7ZzaCmVANXSYH86

You have to drive a bit and this bear park is best done in combination with a visit to Sjeverni Velebit nature park. In Kuterovo, orphan bears are taken care of until they are big enough to be able to return to nature.https://goo.gl/maps/zoWYSviMLhx. (small entrance fee)

After your visit to Kuterovo, you can decide to visit the Sheverni Velebit National Park. You can take beautiful walks and have fascinating views. An entrance fee and parking fees are charged. There are several entrances to the park.

Brinje: Old castle ruin: https://goo.gl/maps/9v7ZzaCmVANXSYH86 10 minutes driving from Brinje you will find this beautiful waterfall. https://goo.gl/maps/9v7ZzaCmVANXSYH86

TIPS: NATURE PARK LONJSKE POLJE

The village of Cigoc has the largest stork population in Europe. It is located in the Lonjske Polje Nature Park. You can take beautiful walks there. Park at Tradicije Cigoc and enjoy a trip back in time with the many old wooden houses. Unfortunately, there are also many houses in deplorable state. https://goo.gl/maps/h7Z3dXkSsg62

It is worth to drive much further on to Jasenovac and enjoy the many traditional houses along the way. Note ... many mosquitoes in the summer. You do need to buy a day ticket at the office of the nature park further down in the village

TIPS: PLACES TO EAT IN AND AROUND KARLOVAC  Motel Dobra: https://goo.gl/maps/syau3vjagUqk1mGz8 Beautiful location on Dobra river, simple menu.  Prva Postaja Duga Resa: https://goo.gl/maps/pMsqi18FSECLWxdK7 Great view and indoor playground for kids. Cheap daily menu until 12.30.  Hotel Duga Resa: https://goo.gl/maps/pMsqi18FSECLWxdK7 Very low priced daily menu for less than 5 euros until 12.30hr.  Pizzeria Riva Duga Resa: https://goo.gl/maps/ZRH55PsKbuQYPaqz9 Good prices, nice location near to river.  Lana Korana Karlovac: https://goo.gl/maps/TXe4yGbimhFiUnS16 Great place for swimming and tasty and affordable dishes.  Kvaka Karlovac: https://goo.gl/maps/wW6bck3abGY3KYsq7 Great meals, directly situated on Kupa river.  Tiffany Karlovac: https://goo.gl/maps/uD2cFpBxDTf9daR66 Very good pizza!  Konoba Zec Karlovac: https://goo.gl/maps/CnvqqpjtxhbEha1v9 Good food and nice ambiance.

 Old castle: https://goo.gl/maps/gLgwUKrz1SGvtN817 Good food in a great ambiance!

DAYTOURS BY CAR We have comprised three very enjoyable day trips for you. Most of the places you will visit are very non-touristic. A route along the river Krka, a wooden church tour and the castles and ruins tour. Enjoy the beautiful landscape, the peace and tranquility. DAYTOUR 1: RIVER KRKA SLOVENIA The Krka River is a shallow but very beautiful river that runs through the lazy and beautiful landscape of Slovenia. Not far from the border with Bregana you head towards Brezice.

1. Kostenjevec is the first stop. https://goo.gl/maps/5kCiq4iVi7J2. The wooden bridge offers a nice view on the river and nearby are facilities for swimming.

2. Just outside the city there is a beautiful monastery and art museum. Worth a visit! https://goo.gl/maps/tCWdJ5wsnds

3. Continue to Otocec. A beautiful old castle on an island in the river. It is now a hotel. But you can make beautiful circular walks and enjoy of a drink in this somewhat chic hotel. https://goo.gl/maps/TjpdXHUywtT2

4. Drive on to Novo Mesto, there is not much interesting to see here but there are many shopping facilities.

5. Continue your route to Zuzemberk. A lovely place with an old castle and a beautiful bridge over the river. Enjoy the view and the beautiful rapids here. https://goo.gl/maps/TjpdXHUywtT2.

6. Do not forget to drive up the mountain outside Zuzemberk to the beautiful church where you have a fantastic view. https://goo.gl/maps/nc17HNkWs8Q2.

7. Now it is time to drive to the source of the Krka. You can see the water bubbling up here. It is a quiet place to enjoy a tranquil moment. https://goo.gl/maps/pGaFuwLyz4p. It is a short walk from the parking lot. Enjoy this beautiful day on this beautiful river!

DAYTOUR 2: WOODEN CHURCHES

Wooden churches are not only found in Scandinavia. In the wider area of Velika Gorica you will find a some very interesting places. Enjoy this beautiful daytrip to areas very sparsely visited by tourists.

Drive from Molvice via the highway to Velika Gorica, exit Buzin. This is approximately 25 kilometers. Here the starting point. From Velika Gorica you head into the hilly hinterland where the kupa river meanders wonderfully. Here and there you can still see a little bit of war damage. But mostly nice, beautiful old wooden houses in a wooded and pastoral landscape. The churches that you are going to seeare all around the town of Pokupsko. That

18 is approximately 32 kilometers from Velika Gorica. In Velika Gorica there are many shops and places to eat.

Start: https://goo.gl/maps/Tfibv2qnmhVTfEiAA The beautiful wooden church just outside Velika Gorica, near the old airport. On the main road of Ivana Pavla 2.

1. Roman excavation: https://goo.gl/maps/nfqRaDwtNLpsZmav9 This is an interesting excavation of an old Roman village. Not far from the new airport in the village of Scitarjevo. In this town there is a bakery where you can buy some snacks. You will not encounter anything else to eat along the way.

2. Lucelnica: https://goo.gl/maps/QsNYPvZSbTUK9qU89 The wooden church of the Holy Trinity in this tiny village can be reached after a short 35 km drive.

3. Gustelnica: https://goo.gl/maps/jVmtTE4kgXN4AKvW9 In the center of this village there is also a beautiful wooden church of Saint Antun.

4. Lukinic Brdo: https://goo.gl/maps/ruirgdpm6oTAStSC8 After another 8 kilometers you will find the church of Sveti Ivana in a beautiful position with a view.

5. Gladovec Pokupski: https://goo.gl/maps/FdErzVxNEnsA4ies6 Drive less than 8 kilometers to this village and there is the church of the Holy Trinity.

6. Lijevi Stefanki: https://goo.gl/maps/R73JtYuHSpn2MrjL7 In the center of this village you will again find a wooden church. Actually more of a chapel.

7. Dvoranci: https://goo.gl/maps/RkX59nHMtaaP7nnt6 The last church on this ride.

8. You are at the end of the drive in the region of Pokupsko where most of the wooden churches in Croatia are found. In the town of Pokupsko you can settle down for a cup of coffee and there is a gas station and small supermarket. You end the ride by driving back to Velika Gorica, (Velika Mlaka) where the most beautiful wooden church is.

9. If you want to have a taste of eco park Kras, you can drive towards Pisarovina. In Pisarovina there are also two dining options. The Kras park is not much in itself, but you can take a nice walk, have a drink and there are nice water features.https://goo.gl/maps/RkX59nHMtaaP7nnt6

10. Would you rather stretch your legs afterwards without climbing? In the village of Lijevo Sredičko there are short walking routes to the Kupa River and there is a café.https://goo.gl/maps/eYRDCW6tFGA567xJ9

11. Velika Mlaka: The end point of the route with the most beautiful and largest wooden church.https://goo.gl/maps/Y3pLSpDqGGBZuBfYA

DAYTOUR 3: OLD CASTLES AND RUINS Croatia and Slovenia have many beautiful fortresses and castles. The most beautiful castle is Trakoscan. But with this day trip you will also see enough. Many of the fortresses and castles are not open to visitors because there are no restoration works yet. Others are relics from better times. But all worth a visit. Certainly also because of the route and the beautiful places where the castles and fortresses can be found. We have selected 9 beautiful places for you in the wider area

1. Castle ruin of Samobor: https://goo.gl/maps/CjUWuJhKATXNUAtR7 Drive from Molvice to the city center. You can park at hotel Lavica in Samobor near the stream. Follow the stream (with your back to the center). Before crossing the bridge, turn left and climb up.

2. Mokrice (Slovenië): https://goo.gl/maps/m2k29MwBwAw9xM3M9 About 8 kilometers from Samobor. This is a beautiful old castle that has now been converted into a golf hotel.. Take the small border crossing at Bregana and continue for another 2 kilometers to Nova Vas pri Mokrice.

3. Okic (ruin): https://goo.gl/maps/PJegcaJQ8sy6MkHQ9 Drive back to Molvice. At Milecki you follow the main road and then to the right towards Konšćica. This is very narrow. Note that in Konšćica you do not go down to the left, but take the narrow road at the supermarket to the right. It is very tight! In the hamlet of Klake is a small fire station (DVD) which is located in a bend to the right. But you turn left into the side street. There at the house you have a beautiful view on the castle ruin of Okic. Daredevils can climb the castle. Go by car to the Planinarski Dom. On weekends you can get a soup or a nice cup of coffee. https://goo.gl/maps/oGr6CqWjurTcS8wS6

4. Slavetic: https://goo.gl/maps/Vsb8gTFAQ8jwtay46 Enter Plešivica on the GPS (45 ° 43'35.1 "N 15 ° 39'04.8" E). Enter this navigation even before entering Slavetic. You go along narrow roads to the most beautiful viewpoint in the area. Stop at Ivancic's bright blue restaurant for a delicious coffee on the terrace. Beautiful view guaranteed! Then you will pass through the wine region of Plesevica and Sveta Jana. Turn off the route for a moment and turn right at the Jana factory and then right again towards the Toplice. There you will find a small swimming pool that is always 21 degrees. The water bubbles out of the ground. A little further you can drink water from the cold spring. Slavetic castle is about 8 kilometers from Sveta Jana. The castle is not accessible.

5. Greek catholic church: https://goo.gl/maps/b4i6gXEqk9Gxf2yz9 Put the GPS to Ozalj and at Hutin you will see an old partly dilapidated Byzantine monastery. But the church is in beautiful condition. Worth a stop.

6. Ozalj (partly restored): https://goo.gl/maps/geL2XL16cAE5jyKt8 The most beautiful castle today. Once the seat of the legendary noble family Zrinksi Frankopan. The castle is accessible but information is only available in Croatian. You

will enjoy a beautiful view on the Kupa river and the second hydroelectric power station of Nikola Tesla, the Munjara. In order to enjoy this views, walk all the way to the back of the castle over the wooden walkway and enjoy this beautiful view. If you are lucky you will see kingfishers foraging below. You only pay admission if you also want to enter the castle. You don't have to pay for the view! You can park at the bottom of the road.

7. Ribnik: https://goo.gl/maps/Q7KLq7TEVVMgxU129 After Ozalj drive towards Jurovski Brod and then towards Novigrad na Dobri. On the way you pass Ribnik. An old castle, this time not on a hill but in a valley.

8. Novigrad na Dobri (ruin): https://goo.gl/maps/rPJqQJUxm3JNfhL49 From Ribnik, head towards Novi Grad na Dobri. Just before Novigrad are the old horse stables on the right of the famous Lipizaner horses for the Austrian emperors The riding school is unfortunately not accessible. The castle is already visible. But wait a little longer to cross the bridge because it is the most beautiful in the wider area. An old bridge made of stone. The castle in Novigrad can be climbed and offers beautiful views. There is no need to pay for admission.

9. Dubovac – Karlovac: https://goo.gl/maps/5sFyB4fbK9ZBtFDLA The beautiful partially restored castle above Karlovac. There is a nice and good restaurant in the castle. You can then choose to take the fast route back to Molvice via the highway.

10. However, if you have a few hours left, consider an adventurous route on narrow mountain roads through the heart of the Zumberak. Here you find the old and abandoned castle of Zumberak. Not easy to find. The best way to drive is via Sosice and then along the Sopote waterfall. All roads are asphalted.

11. Stari Grad Zumberak (ruïne): https://goo.gl/maps/xyyNtJg3eyXhBqd66 From Stari Grad Žumberački it is a short walk to the ruins of the Zumberak. The silence here is almost tangible. After your visit enter your final destination Molvice on the GPS. It is more than an hour's drive along the mountain roads. Lots of forest and steep abysses. In total the route is approximately 150 kilometers and can be done in 1 day. PAY ATTENTION IN CROATIA...

1. Prepare your trip: If you do a tour through the countryside then you will go through sparsely populated areas. There are cafes everywhere for a cup of coffee. But don't expect to find something to eat quickly and easily.

2. Sun and temperature: The sun is already very strong in early spring. Preferably wear a cap. Are you visiting Plitvice, Gorski Kotar, Lika or Velebit on a nice sunny day? Always take a jacket and sweater with you. These are mountain areas where the weather can change.

3. Always take cash money: Make sure you always have cash kunas with you! There is a lot of police control in Croatia. You will receive a fine of 500 kuna for not having a first-aid kit with you for

instance. If you pay on the spot you will pay 50 percent of the amount. Euros are not accepted. Always ask for a receipt!

4. Traffic lights: Be careful if you find a green arrow to the right at the traffic light. This is intended for traffic flow but does not always mean that the road from the left is clear. So watch out!

5. Traffic: Keep in mind that bumper sticking and overtaking is sometimes a national sport. Don't be fooled by it. Be extra careful on the way to Plitvice! The curves in the hills and mountains are unclear and the roads are narrow. The average Croat does not anticipate in traffic. On Friday afternoon and Sunday afternoon the roads are busy because of the Bosnians who want to return home.

6. Driving in the mountains: In the hills and mountains it is constantly climbing, descending, braking and winding. This can, if you are sensitive to it, cause motion sickness. It could ruin your day. Take some tablets with you. Ginger is also a good tool. Do not read in the car, sit in the front and stare at a fixed point.

7. Coffee culture: A coffee in the cafe is a small strong espresso. If you do not want strong coffee, order a coffee latte (velika kava za mlekom) or a coffee with milk (Kava za mlekom). A normal black coffee is a produznja kava or Americano. Please note that most cafés have no smoking regulations.

8. dogs: Enjoy walking with your dog. Some dogs never go out and only watch over their owner's area. If you walk past it and the gate is open, strange surprises may occur. Take caution and take a stick with you.

9. Cash payments: You cannot pin at many small shops or supermarkets. So make sure you have enough cash in your pocket. Pay particular attention that when you pint you do not choose the option: "accept with conversion". The exchange rate of the ATM is very poor (usually under 7 kuna for a euro) while your own bank calculates a much better rate afterwards.

10. Karlovac: Watch out if you are driving in Karlovac. Most roundabouts are not well organized. Traffic on the roundabout often has no priority.

11. Don’t go in high grass: Do not go walking in tall grass without long pants and boots. Snakes are shy but like to warm up in the morning. Ticks are everywhere. Also be careful with low-hanging branches.

12. Motorways: Motorways are extremely busy on Saturdays and Sundays from mid-July to mid- August. The road to Karlovac via Jastrebarsko is also completely blocked. Avoid these

roads on these days and make sure that if you take the highway on these days you will not be driving to the last toll gate at Lucko. The waiting times run up to three hours. Take the exit at Jastrebarsko or Donji Zdencina.

13. Watch your internet credit: If you are close to the Bosnian border, please switch off your mobile data in your mobile. Because within a few minutes you could lose a lot of money if it switches to a Bosnian signal.