If you googled Croatia for your vacation, it is very likely that this search engine did not show you the hidden gem of continental Croatia - Zagorje. Completely unfairly removed from the list of the most attractive places, this rural area in northern Croatia, could easily be described with one word: pleasure. With all the ingredients that make a perfect recipe; from breathtaking hills, castles, and museums to excellent food and wines, to much-needed relaxation and peace, visiting Zagorje is a MUST!

Among the many epithets that adorn this region, the one that for us perfectly describes it is a fairy tale in the palm of your hand. Zagorje really is that. In one moment you can walk through beautiful forests, in another through the beautiful gardens of Trakošćan Castle. Zagorje hills also hide numerous springs of healing thermal water, delicious local food specialties, and a wide choice of top wines. Synonymous with relaxing and connecting with nature, this northern part of Croatia is perfect for hedonists.

Dedicate at least a few days to Zagorje, because it truly deserves that!

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Krapina Neanderthal Museum

Is there a better way to start exploring Zagorje than the place where it all started? In the modern Krapina Neanderthal Museum, built in the form of a cave, you can literally go back to your roots. There you will enter the labyrinth of an unforgettable journey. Behind every bend, you will see something new, something exciting, and you will learn. It starts with the big bang, to the development of life from the first organisms and hominids to the ancient habitat of Krapina protohumans. At the end of this journey, you will be taken along the paths of prehistoric man to his authentic ancient habitat. Definitely our favorite part, you will feel chills, yet total respect.

Trakošćan Castle

Although Zagorje can boast of numerous castles, the one that has been engraved in our hearts is certainly the Trakošćan castle. The castle, which looks very similar to those from fairy tales, leaves you breathless! One of the most attractive and most visited castles in Croatia, Trakošćan is located on a small hill at an altitude of 250 meters. Like a postcard, around the castle, there is a beautiful forest park, in which an artificial lake, meadows, and trees form a harmonious whole. If you are planning a romantic date, this castle ticks all the boxes. Bring a blanket, and a picnic basket and indulge yourself in this romantic setting, which neither princes nor princesses would be ashamed of.

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Indulge in Local Delicacies of Zagorje

We are big foodies! Wherever there's good food, here we are. And Zagorje offers a handful of local specialties, and despite our best efforts, we couldn't stand out just one. Warm, homely, full of flavor dishes, that just melt in the mouth. From Turkey with mlinci, and Štrukli, to mushroom dishes, and pumpkin pie. All of them delicious as it sounds! What we could recommend is a visit to one of the brilliant traditional vineyard houses (“kleti”), where you can try out the best white wines.

Recreation & Relaxation

Why not exploring this region in a completely different way? Whether it's cycling, horseback riding, or Nordic walking, Zagorje will win you over with its picturesque hills and vineyards. If you want to completely relax, this region offers numerous springs of healing thermal water, perfect for a stress-free vacation and recharging your batteries. And we can't forget the glamping! Connect with the astonishing nature of this region in totally unique, yet beautiful way

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