Slunj

Entering Slunj always leaves you breathless. Driving along the D1 road, the view from the vehicle will be captured by the fairytale waterfalls of Rastoke, and if you manage to pull your gaze away, it will soon be lost upstream in the depths of the Korana Canyon. Just when you think you’ve avoided the stop, the walls of the old town of Slovin appear before you, and in an instant, you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of the lively town center of Slunj. Surrender to the moment, it’s a sign to stop and stay.

Perched on a rocky hill above the Slunjčica Canyon, the Slovin castle has guarded the town of Slunj for centuries. It deserves respect, having won many battles, but also lost a few. Napoleon’s supply depot and the wooden bridge over the Korana still remember General Marmont. The old watermills of Rastoke have been tirelessly working for the last three centuries, recalling the days when bread was valued more than gold. In Rastoke, you can discover how laundry was washed in a natural washer or feel your skin being hydrated by the mist from the waterfall. Here, the symbiosis of water and man lives in its truest form.

As you walk along the forest and water trail, wander to the source of the Slunjčica River, and let the turquoise eye of the small lake, whose depths remain unexplored, leave you speechless. Embark on an adventure through Matešić Cave, where you enter on one side and emerge into the Korana on the other. Paddle through the Korana or Mrežnica canyons by kayak and let us know if you can decide which one is more beautiful. Ride all 110 km of cycling trails in the area. Swim at the Korana swimming area, cool off in the Slunjčica. Try Nordic walking, paintball, or attend one of the many festivals.

Let the water be your guide, disperse into a thousand droplets, and create a colorful rainbow above you. When you tire, dock by the shore and treat yourself to trout or cheese. Enjoy the hospitality, chat with the locals—seasoned people who have experienced both the good and the bad sides of life. Their wisdom of survival has added value to the natural beauty and the glorious history of Slunj and its surroundings.