Kuterevo Bear Refuge – A Heartwarming Sanctuary in the Mountains of Croatia

The Kuterevo Bear Refuge, located in a small village near Otočac in the Lika region, is one of Croatia’s most unique and touching wildlife attractions. This volunteer-run sanctuary provides a safe, peaceful home for orphaned or rescued brown bears that cannot return to the wild.

Visitors can walk along forest paths and viewing platforms to observe the bears in a natural, spacious environment. The atmosphere is calm and educational rather than commercial — there are no shows or performances. Instead, guests learn about the biology of brown bears, the threats they face, and the inspiring conservation efforts led by the local community and international volunteers.

Kuterevo is not a zoo; it is a refuge built on compassion, respect for animals, and love for nature. The charming wooden houses, traditional Lika village setting, and friendly volunteers make the experience feel authentic and deeply meaningful.

A visit to Kuterevo is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone who wants to support a good cause while enjoying one of Croatia’s most heartfelt destinations.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most breathtaking natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its cascading turquoise lakes and magical waterfalls, the park offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Sixteen crystal-clear lakes are connected by a series of waterfalls and wooden walkways, allowing visitors to explore the park up close and at their own pace.

Surrounded by lush forests and rich wildlife, Plitvice is beautiful in every season—vibrant green in spring and summer, colorful in autumn, and peacefully snow-covered in winter. Well-marked walking trails and panoramic viewpoints make it easy for guests of all ages to enjoy the scenery.

Whether you choose a relaxing stroll or a full-day adventure, Plitvice Lakes promises a unique and serene escape into nature’s beauty. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Croatia.

• The region offers many opportunities for hiking, trekking, cycling, along valley trails, hills and foothills of the Velebit.  
• For water lovers: kayaking or gentle canoeing on the Gacka.  
• For anglers: the clean, oxygen-rich waters of the Gacka River are ideal — local trout are a draw for fishing.  

Fortica Fortress — Historic Hilltop with Panoramic Views

The Fortica Fortress, dating back to the 17th century, sits proudly on a hill above Otočac.

From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the town, the Gacka River Valley, and the surrounding mountains.

It’s part of a local hiking trail system and can be reached by a pleasant walk or a more active climb.

Tip: Best visited in the late afternoon or at sunset — the light and atmosphere are magical.

Velebit Nature Park covers over 2,200 km² of mountains, forests, karst formations, and landscapes stretching all the way toward the Adriatic Sea.

The park offers many hiking trails, viewpoints, and routes, from easy nature walks to more demanding mountain adventures.

Expect dramatic mountain scenery, spectacular overlooks, rich flora and fauna, and incredible photo opportunities.

Tip: Best from late spring to early autumn. Good hiking shoes and water recommended.

• This is a top spot in town — located directly by the river Gacka River, offering a cozy riverside atmosphere.  
• Known especially for fresh local fish — the Gacka trout served in several ways is a favourite among visitors.  
• Besides fish, they offer meat dishes, pizza, and even — on request for larger groups — traditional Lika region specialties like lamb or veal “under the bell” (a traditional cooking style).  
• They also offer vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options on request — good flexibility for diverse guests.  

Tip: Perfect for a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring — especially if you like local flavour and a peaceful ambiance by the river.

• While Otočac itself doesn’t have a seaside beach, its location makes it feasible to plan day-trips to the Croatian coast or the Adriatic Sea. Some sources mention that from accommodations in Otočac you are only a manageable drive from coastal areas — which gives your guests the flexibility to combine mountain / river / forest stay with some sea & beach time.  
• This makes Otočac and its surrounding valley a great “base camp”: enjoy river & nature near the town, and when you feel like real beach salt-water & seaside atmosphere — head to the coast for a change of scenery.