Welcome to Vrhovine
Nestled in the heart of Lika, Vrhovine Municipality is a unique local administrative unit within Lika-Senj County, recognized for its special state importance. Covering 224 km² with eight charming settlements, Vrhovine combines pristine nature, rich history, and enormous potential for sustainable development.
Location & Landscape
Vrhovine is perched on the slopes of Mala Kapela, perfectly positioned between the Plitvice Lakes National Park and the Velebit Mountains. The municipality lies along the important D52 transit route, connecting the Adriatic coast through Senj, Otočac, and Vrhovine with the natural wonders of Plitvice, and the railway linking Zagreb and Rijeka with Dalmatia.
With altitudes ranging from 500 m (Zalužnica) to 1,150 m (Javornik), Vrhovine offers a spectacular natural environment characterized by:
- Lush forests, predominantly coniferous, creating ideal habitats for wildlife and opportunities for sustainable forestry.
- Fertile agricultural land, suitable for farming, livestock, seed potatoes, and medicinal herbs.
- Pristine, unpolluted surroundings perfect for outdoor recreation and eco-tourism.
- Diverse mountainous terrain, including peaks like Seliški vrh (1,279 m), Krivi javor (1,204 m), Ciljak (1,018 m), Cigelj (1,164 m), and Brda (1,006 m), offering hikers and nature enthusiasts endless exploration.
- Karst formations such as sinkholes, caves, and rocky fields that create a unique geological landscape.
The combination of mountain climate, clean air, and natural beauty makes Vrhovine a perfect destination for hikers, hunters, nature lovers, and anyone seeking peace and adventure.
Climate & Seasons
Vrhovine enjoys a mountainous climate with crisp, cold winters and short, dry summers. Snow blankets the landscape from November to April, creating a winter wonderland ideal for seasonal sports and activities. Summer days are warm with cool nights, offering the perfect environment for hiking, cycling, and exploring the great outdoors.
Settlements
Vrhovine Municipality includes eight settlements: Gornje Vrhovine, Dugi Dol, Rudopolje, Turjanski, Vrhovine, Zalužnica, Donji Babin Potok, and Gornji Babin Potok, each with its own unique charm and local character.
Vision & Economic Potential
The long-term development of Vrhovine is focused on building a vibrant, self-sustaining community based on local resources, entrepreneurial initiatives, and sustainable economic growth. Strategic priorities include:
Wood industry – leveraging rich forest resources.
Tourism – promoting Vrhovine’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities.
Agriculture – developing farming, livestock, and specialty crops.
Vrhovine is a municipality poised for growth, offering opportunities for investors, tourists, and residents alike, all while preserving the natural beauty and traditions of this remarkable Lika region.
Vrhovine Tourist Board
The Vrhovine Tourist Board was officially established on May 19, 2017, marking a long-awaited milestone for the municipality. Its mission is to promote Vrhovine as a unique tourist destination and showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic experiences of this charming Lika region to visitors from around the world.
The Tourist Board works to create a positive impression that travelers can share with others, encouraging more visitors to discover the area. By engaging and motivating the local community, it aims to enhance the overall living environment, ensuring high standards in tourism while preserving the stunning landscapes and rich cultural traditions of Vrhovine.
Tourism in Vrhovine is closely linked with other key sectors, such as agriculture and livestock, supporting the production of local food and products for visitors during the season. The Board also focuses on improving year-round living conditions, addressing demographic challenges, and encouraging sustainable development.
By fostering sustainable tourism, the Vrhovine Tourist Board envisions tourism as a leading driver of economic growth, creating new opportunities for local businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
Discover more about the Vrhovine Tourist Board and explore its offerings here.
Learn more about us and our work here.