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Caves of Barać: A Subterranean Journey Through Time

Discover Croatia's hidden gem: Explore the stunning Caves of Barać, a subterranean world of natural beauty and ancient history near Plitvice Lakes.

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Explore the mystical Caves of Barać near Nova Kršlja, Croatia, a fascinating network of caves with a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Discover stunning stalactites and stalagmites, learn about the cave's geological formations, and uncover archaeological finds from the Ice Age and beyond on a guided tour through this protected natural area.

A brief summary to Caves of Barać

  • Stara Kršlja, HR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes with good traction, as the cave paths can be uneven and slippery.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside the cave remains a constant 9°C (48°F) year-round.
  • Tours are guided and start when there is a large enough group, so there may be a short wait time.
  • Combine your visit to the caves with a trip to nearby Plitvice Lakes National Park, only 20 kilometers away.
  • Check the Barać Caves website for current opening hours and ticket prices, as they vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The easiest way to reach the Caves of Barać is by car. From Zagreb, take the A1 highway towards Split and exit at Rakovica. Follow the signs for Grabovac and then for Barać Caves. From Plitvice Lakes National Park, take the D1 road north towards Rakovica. In Rakovica, follow the signs to Barać Caves. There is a free parking lot near the entrance to the caves. Note that during peak season, parking may be limited.

  • Public Transport

    While reaching the Caves of Barać by public transport can be tricky, it is possible. From Zagreb, take a bus to Rakovica. From Rakovica, you may need to rely on local taxi services or a combination of local buses to reach Stara Kršlja, followed by a short walk to the caves. Alternatively, take a bus from Gospić to Slunj, then transfer to a local bus heading towards Stara Kršlja. The bus ride to Slunj takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The local bus to Stara Kršlja takes about 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute walk to the caves. Bus fares from Zagreb to Rakovica range from €11-€15. Taxi fares from Rakovica to the caves will vary.

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Discover more about Caves of Barać

Venture into the heart of Croatia's karst landscape and discover the enchanting Caves of Barać (Baraćeve špilje), a natural wonder located near the village of Nova Kršlja in the municipality of Rakovica. These caves, named after a local hero, Barać, who according to legend defeated a Turkish giant, have a rich history, having been first opened to the public in 1892. After being abandoned following World War II, they were lovingly restored and reopened in 2004, allowing visitors to once again marvel at their subterranean beauty. The Upper Barać Cave, the only one of the four caves open to the public, offers a guided tour that lasts approximately one hour. As you descend into the cave, you'll be surrounded by stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and stalagnates, formed over thousands of years by the slow process of water erosion on limestone rocks. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 9°C (48°F), so it's recommended to bring a jacket or sweater. During the tour, knowledgeable guides share insights into the cave's geological past, its unique ecosystem, and the archaeological treasures discovered within. Keep an eye out for the remains of ancient cave mammals, including cave bears and lions, as well as a bronze necklace dating back to the Bronze Age. For a truly immersive experience, the tour includes a moment of complete darkness and silence, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique underground world. Outside the caves, explore the surrounding park-forest, perfect for relaxation and recreation. Enjoy a leisurely walk along well-maintained paths, discover sinkholes and springs, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Una-Korana Plateau. For those seeking a longer hike, three trails named after local wildlife – the Wolf, Lynx, and Bear trails – offer varying levels of challenge and stunning views of the landscape.

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