Photo credit: Croatian National Tourist Board

If you’re a nature lover seeking for an adventure, then we suggest Fužine for a perfect day trip from Rijeka. This amazing place is set only 40 minutes’ drive east from Rijeka (30 kilometres) in picturesque Croatian region called Gorski Kotar, at 700 meters above sea level, known as green heart of Croatia. It’s an amazing combination of continental landscapes (mountains, lakes and deep caves) really close to the sea. This mix of continental and mediterranean climate provides you with most amazing scenery to soak in and simply relax or have a day full of adventures.

Fužine was founded in the 17th century when the Zrinski family began to dig iron ore here, after which Fužine was named. The mines were gradually extinguished, and the settlement was developed after the construction of Karolina road and railways in the 18th century that have linked continental Croatia and Rijeka.

One of funny things Fužine is known for is New Year’s Eve party at noon. So, if you are here on that very day, here’s an idea on how to make it special. If not, here’s our top 3 list for things to do while in Fužine on any day.

Photo credit: Croatian National Tourist Board

Tip 1: Explore the beauty of Fužine lakes

Whatever time of the year, Fužine lakes are beautiful to see. During the autumn, they dress up in most amazing colors of gold and red, while during the winter they are deeply covered in white snow. If you visit in summer time, you’ll feel refreshed by nice winds coming from the mountains dressed in all shades of green. You can even swim in the lake Lepenica! In spring time, you’ll be amazed by number of birds singing happily while you walk around the lake, maybe even get to know a rabbit or a deer. You can read more info on Fužine lake’s on the local Tourist Board website.

The hiking and biking trails around the lakes are great. However, if you don’t really feel like working out, you can simply sit on a tourist train for the 6 km long path arond the lake Bajer, one of the three accumulation lakes that were built in Fužine area. It runs from 1st of May to 1st of November. You can check out the timetable here. 

Photo credit: Croatian National Tourist Board

Tip 2: Walk into the world of caves

One of our favourite places to visit only 3 km away from the village of Fužine is the Vrelo cave, with its mountain spring, lake and abyss. Though only 300m long, the cave offers beautiful experience with water coming from a spring and amazing work of nature’s art at every step of our way. The cave is between 3 and 4 million years old and it was discovered by accident 70 years ago. It is the only tourist cave in Europe accessible to people with disabilities and suitable for children of all ages. You can find more info and working hours here. 

Tip 3: Feel the wild wild west 

You probably didn’t know that the old Winnetou film was filmed in Paklenica karst river canyon national park. On the remains of the old film set Cowboy Village Roswell was created in 2015. So, if you are up for some wild wild west experience, this is the place to visit. You can enjoy a number of exciting outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, Winchester shooting, archery, horseshoe throwing and lassoing. You can also rent a barbecue. The Cowboy Roswell Village will be open to visitors from 11 a.m to 5 p.m. every weekend and on holidays. You can find up-to-date information here. 

And if all of this still didn’t make you sit in a car and drive to Fužine, maybe you should check out the video below to see if that gets you inspired.

FRIENDLY WARNING: Due to COVID-19 restrictions which are changing on almost weekly basis and could affect the organization of events and working hours of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Feel free to contact us if you have any concerns or questions. Also, you can get up to date info on the official Croatian Government dedicated site  and Total Croatia News portal with special section on traveling during pandemia.