Ogulin

When Bernardin Frankopan founded Ogulin above the chasm of the Dobra River in the 16th century, he never imagined that his fame would ultimately be overshadowed by a girl named Đula. The brave soldiers of Ogulin fought for centuries, as evidenced by archival records and numerous archaeological findings. But one sad love story that blossomed amidst these battles transformed the history of warfare into a memory of Đula’s tragic romance, giving the chasm beneath the town its name. The rock above Đula’s abyss bears the face of her beloved, wondering where she has gone.

One legend not enough to bring you to Ogulin? Discover who lies petrified on Klek, dating back to the time when gods and giants roamed the Earth, and why the Dobra River disappears beneath this mountain. Craving adventure? Spend a stormy night on Klek, and you might get a chance to join a dance with witches and fairies. You’ll receive a quick lesson in broomstick flying, complete with a license. If you simply wish to stay eternally young and beautiful, drink the fairy water from Cesarovac Spring in the town center. And if you’re brave enough, set out on the adventure of a lifetime up Klek’s two-hundred-meter cliff, where a cave filled with gold coins awaits. The only problem? The cave opens once every century, and the gold is guarded by a girl turned into a serpent. Naturally, you must kiss the snake to transform her into a beautiful maiden, and all your problems will be sprinkled with love and gold.

And while you’re in the land of legends and fairy tales, let yourself fully experience it. Choose from water sports on Sabljaci Lake, challenging climbs on Klek’s difficult routes, hiking or biking, exploring the 16-kilometer Đula-Medvedica cave system, sledding on Bjelolasica, or simply visiting Ivana’s Fairy Tale House and the Frankopan Castle to let your imagination run free.

When you get hungry, Ogulin’s sauerkraut will restore your energy. Be sure to take some home with you—you’ll need it, as winters here are long and cold.