5 reasons you will fall in love with Otočac

by croatiaweek
May 24, 2024
in Travel

(Photo: Discover Otočac)

In the heart of Croatia’s picturesque Lika region, the town of Otočac beckons travellers with its unique blend of natural beauty and history.

Located in the serene Gacka river valley, Otočac offers experiences that cater to both adventure enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

From the pristine waters of the Gacka River perfect for kayaking to the fascinating old mills that whisper tales of yesteryears, Otočac promises an unforgettable visit.

Here are just seven reasons why you need to check out Otočac.

Kayaking on the Gacka River

(Photo: Discover Otočac)

Experience the serenity of kayaking on the Gacka River, which is one of the cleanest rivers in Europe. Famous for its pristine, oxygen-rich waters and slow, calm flow, the Gacka is perfect for a leisurely paddle.

Remarkably, trout in the Gacka grow up to five times faster than in other karst rivers, making it a hotspot for fishermen.

Whether you’re exploring its 61 kilometres of waterway or marvelling at the underwater life through a transparent kayak provided by Velebit aktivnosti, the first in Croatia, kayaking on the Gacka River is an unforgettable adventure.

(Photo: Discover Otočac)

Velebit aktivnosti also offer cycling and quad bike adventures through the amazing nearby nature.

Velebit aktivnosti – https://www.velebit.info/

Discover the Gacka Springs

Majerovo vrilo (Private album)

Explore the historic Gacka Springs, where the river’s power still drives a few of the original sixty mills from the 20th century.

At Majerovo vrilo in Sinac, just ten kilometres from Otočac, you can witness traditional flour milling and buy freshly milled flour.

Majerovo vrilo (Private album)

This enchanting movie set-esque location, with its crystal-clear waters and rustic wooden mills, offers a serene escape into the past.

Here, nature and history converge, creating a unique experience where you can not only see how grains are milled on 170-year-old stones, but also watch ducks frolic in the water.

Majerovo vrilo (Private album)

Don’t miss the nearby Tonković vrilo where you can also be captivated by the natural beauty, and, also refresh with drink straight from the source of one of Europe’s cleanest rivers.

Tonković vrilo (Discover Otočac)

Tonković vrilo (Discover Otočac)

Visit the Airport with One of the World’s Longest Grass Runways

One of the longest grass runways in the world (Private album)

Just outside Otočac, you’ll find an airport boasting one of the world’s longest grass runways, stretching 1600 meters in length and 30 meters in width.

Home to Aeroklub Otočac, this unique airfield is a haven for aviation enthusiasts. Among its attractions on display is the legendary Douglas DC-3, produced in 1944, which has been a symbol of the Gacka Valley for almost 50 years.

The Douglas DC-3 on display (Private album)

This iconic aircraft, which revolutionised air travel in the 1930s and 1940s, holds a special place in the hearts of the local community.

Additionally, visitors can check out a Thunderjet used in the Korean War.

The Thunderjet (Private album)

Watch the Bears in Kuterevo

(Photo: Discover Otočac)

The picturesque village of Kuterevo, on the northeastern slope of Velebit, is home to Croatia’s first Refuge for Young Bears.

This sanctuary provides a safe haven for young, abandoned bears. Visitors can learn about the importance of protecting the brown bear species and the rich biodiversity of the Velebit Nature Park.

(Private album)

A dedicated team of experts and volunteers passionately care for the bears, striving to offer them a life that closely mimics their natural habitat. They have also charmingly decorated the sanctuary.

(Private album)

(Private album)

Visiting Kuterevo offers a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent animals up close while supporting vital conservation efforts.

(Photo: Discover Otočac)

Visit the Small Family Farms

OPG Bogdanić (Private album)

Otočac and its surroundings are home to charming family farms that produce high-quality, authentic products.

One standout is OPG Bogdanić, renowned for its delicious jams, liqueurs, and cordials made from a variety of fruits and herbs.

OPG Bogdanić (Private album)

This picturesque farm offers visitors the chance to taste freshly made eco-products and explore a beautiful garden, which stretches right to the foot of the Gacka River, and is filled with thyme, mint, sage, lavender, and much more.