Why visit villas in Lika and Gorski Kotar?
It's not for nothing that they're known as Croatia's “green hearts”! This is Lika and Gorski Kotar, two Croatian regions that are not well-known for their tourism. Not yet, at least. They are, however, ideal for peaceful vacations for the same reason.
Lika and Gorski Kotar are the locations to go if you want complete solitude, peace and quiet, and to be one with nature while yet having access to all the amenities, activities, and luxury that other regions have to offer! Not to mention that the regions have absolutely little industry, therefore the air and water quality are fantastic!
What to do in Lika and Gorski Kotar
Lika is a mountainous region encircled by the Velebit, Mala, Velika Kapela, and Plešivica mountain ranges, as well as beautiful rivers Gacka, Krbava, Korenica, and Lika, forming charming valleys. The highlight of the region is undoubtedly Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cascading waterfalls and wooden walking paths. It is one of the most visited natural attractions in Croatia and a must-see destination for nature lovers. You can also visit Rastoke, often called “small Plitvice”, where waterfalls flow between traditional houses, or Northern Velebit National Park, known for its unique landscapes and panoramic views.
Gorski Kotar is still a highly valued and well-preserved part of Croatia with untouched nature and pure air, ranging from the real Mediterranean to continental and mountain climates - perfect for a relaxing holiday in a villa with a pool! In Gorski Kotar, visitors can explore dense forests, mountain viewpoints, and protected areas such as Risnjak National Park or Zeleni Vir and Vražji Prolaz, known for their dramatic natural scenery. The region is also ideal for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, wildlife watching, and, during winter, snow-based activities in the mountain areas.
And, of course, who hasn't heard of Nikola Tesla? Tesla admirers can pay a visit to the memorial center in Smiljan, where the inventor was born.
Winter sports are popular in Lika and Gorski Kotar in Begovo Razdolje (the highest inhabited point in Croatia) and Bjelolasica (Croatian olympic center) where some of Croatia’s best skiers have trained for their gold medals!
Accommodation in villas in Lika & Gorski Kotar provides a peaceful base for exploring the region. Some travellers prefer villas close to national parks for easy access to nature, while others choose countryside retreats surrounded by forests and mountains for complete privacy. Larger groups often opt for spacious villas ideal for gathering, while couples may prefer quiet, nature-focused escapes. To make your stay even more enjoyable, My Luxoria concierge service is available to help create a smooth and memorable holiday experience, from organising local activities to recommending the best ways to explore this unique part of Croatia.
Some other places to visit are:
- Vražji prolaz
- Zeleni Vir
- Golubinjak forest park
- Kamačnik canyon
- White and Samarske Cliffs
- Sabljaci lake
Favorite foods in Lika and Gorski Kotar
Lika and Gorski Kotar are two historically and traditionally tough Croatian regions. This indicates that people in the high mountains have traditionally been hard workers due to the terrain and environment, as they laboured in fields, with vegetables, and with their livestock.
They required high-quality food after all of their hard labour. Meat is also a focal point of the table in Lika and Gorski Kotar, as they have stock and go hunting. As a result, popular restaurant dishes in these areas include meat under the 'peka' such as lamb and veal, but you may also try meat from wild animals, such as wild boars.
The areas are known for their forests, which are rich in aromatic mushrooms and self-grown plants (wild garlic and nettle), which locals are adept at locating. We wouldn't advocate going mushroom hunting on your lonesome, but it's an unforgettable activity to do!
Potatoes are a staple grocery item in Lika and Gorski Kotar! The best potatoes in Croatia are farmed in Lika and Gorski Kotar, and they even supply other parts of the country. As a result, it's no wonder that the residents of Lika and Gorski Kotar have a fondness for one simple dish: halved potatoes fried with local pancetta!
Because their livestock is allowed to wander freely in the beautiful wide meadows, their meat, and goods are of the greatest quality! Fresh cheeses from cows, sheep, and goats have earned their rightful place as appetizers, side dishes, desserts, and main courses.
Desserts include wonderful blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and currants from the verdant woodlands, as well as apples and honey from the area!
These tasty, delicious meals are accompanied by local drinks - brandies and liqueurs! The most famous ones are šljivovica (plum brandy), krušovica (pear brandy), travarica (made from indigenous herbs found in the region).
We hope that you will come to enjoy the beauty of the region for yourself, so we encourage you to visit Lika and Gorski Kotar private villas with pools!
Booking a magnificent luxury villa at My Luxoria for your Croatian holiday will ensure that your stay is one to remember.
