Velebit, Croatia's largest mountain range, has always been an adventurer's favorite spot. One of the main reasons for that lies in its extraordinary biodiversity; there is simply no adventure you can't embark on! The same goes for Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch; countless adventures await you there, and with a touch of luxury.

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Wonderful Velebit

As we mentioned, Velebit is rich in biodiversity, so much so that it was included in UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 1978. Truly a haven for travelers with adventurous spirits. Want to tame a wild river? River Zrmanja will give you a ride you won't forget. Want to conquer some of Croatia's highest peaks? Not a problem; there are plenty to choose from. While climbing, you may see some of Europe's most impressive flora with over 2000 plant species, many of which are rare, endangered, or endemic to Velebit. Maybe you would like to explore ancient forests to see some wildlife? Again, Velebit is very rich in fauna, ranging from many types of carnivores, herbivores, and birds to reptile. You may even stumble upon a bear or a wolf; then, you will have a real adventure on your hands!    

But how about we tone it down and take you to a place where bears and wolves won't bother you, but you'll get your dose of adventure nonetheless? The place is called Linden Tree & Retreat Ranch and is located inside the Velebit Nature Park, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of this mountain range.

Authentic Cowboy Experience With a Twist

You might wonder why this ranch in Croatia, in the middle of Europe, reminds you of America's Wild West. It was founded 14 years ago by Bruce Yerkovich, an American with Croatian roots. He was first planning on opening a ranch in Montana but decided to open it here, in the heart of Velebit. 

Ranch vacations inspire Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch in the West, providing people with an authentic cowboy experience. Still, Bruce decided to go further and offer the best of historic and modern experiences. Means that on this ranch, you will experience what it was like to live on a western ranch while enjoying luxury travel amenities and world-class cuisine.

Bruce's vision paid off as DK Eyewitness Travel named its ranch one of Europe's top 10 luxury campsites. So, let's explore and see what kind of experiences you can have, both in adventure and luxury.

You can be a part of dozens of activities on this all-inclusive ranch. They are particularly fond of their equestrian program, which ranges from taking riding classes to going full-on cowboy on up to week-long trail riding. There is also hiking, archery, caving, mountain biking, and canoeing. You might enjoy Off-ranch activities such as zip lines, kayaking, and all-terrain vehicle adventures. You will also have guides and will be provided with all the necessary gear.

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After all that adventuring, why not relax and have an amazing meal? 

You can have a dip in the outdoor heated pool or soak in a wood-fired hot tub. Dining is an experience of its own since the majority of food is grown on-site or foraged nearby. Let's not forget that you're in a nature park, so having a delicious meal in the meadow with Velebit's peaks looking over you is something you will cherish for a long time.

As for the accommodation, it is also something you won't forget. You can choose to stay in Buffalo lodge, a mountain cabin that has blended luxury, rustic charm, and country style into one perfect mix. Casitas, shaped like traditional African mud huts and genuine American Indian tipis, will make you feel a connection to nature that you never felt before. There are also four en-suite rooms with all the authenticity and amenities you need. Each of the accommodations is unique, but they will provide you with the same type of comfort and luxury.

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This ranch is truly one of a kind, and if you want to be one with nature, you should look no further. In true cowboy fashion, we tip our hat to Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch.

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