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Učka Nature Park: Where Istria Touches the Sky

Discover breathtaking views, diverse trails, and rich biodiversity in Učka Nature Park, where Istria's mountains meet the Adriatic coast.

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Učka Nature Park, straddling Istria and the Kvarner Bay, offers diverse landscapes, from lush forests to panoramic viewpoints. Hike to the summit of Mount Vojak, the park's highest peak, for breathtaking views stretching across the Istrian peninsula, the Adriatic Sea, and even as far as the Alps on a clear day.

A brief summary to Nature Park Učka

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • Visit the Poklon Visitor Centre for maps, information, and exhibits about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
  • Consider visiting in the spring or fall for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach Učka Nature Park is by car. From Rijeka or Zagreb, take the expressway towards the Učka Tunnel (Pula, Poreč, etc.) and exit at Veprinac. From there, follow the regional road towards the park. From Istria, turn right before the Učka Tunnel entrance, near the INA petrol station, and follow signs to the old regional road and the park center. Parking is available at Poklon Visitor Centre, with daily rates of €5 during off-season (Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec) and €8 during peak season (Apr-Oct).

  • Public Transport

    It is possible to reach Učka Nature Park by bus, although service is limited. On Sundays and holidays, Autotrolej bus line 34 connects Opatija (Slatina bus stop) with Poklon mountain pass. The journey takes approximately one hour. Check the Autotrolej website for the current timetable. From Zagreb, Brioni Pula d.o.o. operates a bus to Učka Tunnel five times a week. From there, you would need to take a taxi to reach the park's attractions. Bus fare from Zagreb to Učka Tunnel is approximately €16-€26. Taxi fare from Ičići to Učka Nature Park is approximately €27-€35.

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Discover more about Nature Park Učka

Učka Nature Park, established in 1999, encompasses 160 square kilometers of the Učka and Ćićarija mountain ranges, creating a natural border between Istria and the Kvarner region. The park's diverse terrain, shaped over 140 million years, features dramatic limestone cliffs, deep canyons, and verdant forests, fostering a rich ecosystem of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained hiking trails catering to all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs. The most popular trail leads to the summit of Mount Vojak (1,401 m), where a stone tower built in 1911 offers unparalleled 360-degree views. Other notable trails include the Slap (Waterfall) Trail, a gentle path through forests to a tranquil waterfall, and the Vela Draga trail, which winds through a stunning canyon recognized as a geomorphological monument. The park is also rich in history and culture. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological sites like Pupićina Cave and Vela Peć bearing witness to human presence dating back over 10,000 years. In Slavic mythology, Učka was considered a sacred mountain, home to the gods. Today, visitors can explore traditional villages like Vela Učka, a rural settlement nestled on the mountain's slopes. Učka Nature Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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