MOUNTAINS

Velebit mountain and nature park, Krupa river

The impressive Dinara mountain chain outlines the Croatian coast. Velebit is the largest mountain, a nature park with incredible variety of plants, forests, canyons, rocks and caves that lure the hikers, climbers and underground explorers. Ucka in Istria and the neighborhood Gorski Kotar mountains and forest region are another favorite for backpackers and outdoor fans. Two national parks - Paklenica and Risnjak - are in those regions.

The mountains do not all disappear in Adriatic sea – they emerge again on islands with an unique Mediterranean touch. While cruising the islands make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes or you will miss a lot. A bicycle on the boat is very valuable – it will take you to great spots and beautiful views.

Karavanke, Slovenian Alps

The nearby Slovene Alps are a part of Europe's best known mountain chain and for adventure traveler probably the most pleasant of Alpine areas. Triglav National Park has it all – mountains, rivers, forests and lakes. Being "on the sunny side of the Alps" and close to the Mediterranean, these areas benefit from both climates and so does their rich vegetation and wildlife.

The rivers of mountain regions have carved fascinating canyons – they are rocky in Dalmatia region (very near the coast), and surrounded by forests in the north. A great thing about hiking the hills by the coast or on islands – you always end on the sea level, and relaxed swimming in this warm sea is great for your tired feet and body.

You will notice that we are more concerned about protecting rivers than mountains. That is because nobody here yet plans to turn mountains into plains. And we have never seen anyone dumping an old car or stove by taking it up the mountain. That is why we give rivers the priority. And – yes, we love them more. For us, The best of a mountain is not at the top but at the bottom. The river.