Risnjak

Risnjak is a mountain summit reaching 1528 meters and stands as the highest point within its national park in Croatia. The peak has steep slopes, densely forested sections, and open areas covered in rocks and low vegetation.

The mountain was placed under protection in 1949 after a professor recognized its ecological value and championed its designation as a national park. This protection effort allowed the forest and its wildlife to be preserved over the decades.

This summit marks a natural boundary between Mediterranean and continental climates, shaping how the surrounding landscape looks and how local communities relate to the mountains. The diverse plant life across its slopes reflects this climatic transition in visible ways.

Hikers can reach the summit through marked trails starting from Crni Lug village, with the ascent taking about three hours. The path is easiest to navigate in good weather and requires suitable gear for mountain terrain.

The mountain houses over 4000 plant species across its relatively compact territory, an remarkable diversity for a single peak. This density of different habitats draws large predators like bears, wolves, and lynx that roam through its forests.

Location: Primorje-Gorski Kotar County

Elevation above the sea: 1,528 m

GPS coordinates: 45.43153,14.62139

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:48