The “Kruškovac – Zir” educational trail winds through the semi-abandoned village of Kruškovac, a place that still preserves the living traditions and quiet resilience of Lika. Crossing the open landscape of the Lika Plains, the path leads visitors to the summit of Zir, offering breathtaking views over the plains and the surrounding villages.
Here, in a silence that fills the air, nature and people find balance once more. Kruškovac and its pastures tell the story of a land returning to the wild — the spirit of rewilding that reminds us how landscapes can breathe again when we allow them to be what they are: free, quiet, and alive.
Details
CountryCroatia
Programme
📍 Starting Point:
Kruškovac village https://maps.app.goo.gl/uMZmN5igcos9SKD38 or
Hotel Ana, Gospić https://maps.app.goo.gl/hoS6cv1sQkgd9zAq8, from where we will take you to the beginning of the trail.
🏔️ The tour starts with an easy 2 km walk through the village of Kruškovac, exploring the traditional life of Lika. It continues along a 5 km gravel road to the summit of Mount Zir — a true photographer’s dream. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the local flora and fauna. The tour returns along the same scenic route.
🐎 A gravel road winds through the Lika Plains, where part of the land is managed by Rewilding Velebit — offering a photo-safari experience with a high chance of spotting wild horses and cattle.
⏱️ Duration: 5–6 hours
🚶♂️ Total distance: 14 km
🥪 Optional picnic or tasting of local products can be arranged (additional charge applies).
What's Included?
Experienced Local Tour Guide
How your experience helps rewilding efforts
By being part of the Rewilding Velebit network, we contribute to restoring Velebit's natural ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and fostering a sustainable future for both nature and local communities.
Using "Leave No Trace" principles we educate the public on sustainable outdoor practices, emphasizing the importance of minimizing human impact on nature.
Through creative activities and outdoor learning experiences, participants gain insights into the biological and cultural values of the area, which enhances their awareness and behavior concerning nature preservation.
By integrating historical education with environmental awareness we support the development of a balanced relationship between biodiversity conservation and the socio-economic needs of local communities.
We encourage local production and craftsmanship, guiding guests through authentic local tastings and collaborative experiences. Our accommodations are carefully selected partners who share our commitment to rewilding and sustainable practices, promoting simpler, eco-friendly and green use of resources.
In addition, we personally participate in volunteer activities organized by the Rewilding Velebit Foundation, directly contributing to the conservation and rewilding of the region.
Seasonal Availability
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Languages spoken
English
Group size
We prefer small private groups, up to 8 people.
The price per person is €90. If the group has four or more people, the price is €80 per person.
Frequently Asked Questions
📍HOW TO GET TO KRUŠKOVAC VILLAGE
From the A1 highway, take the Gospić exit. From Gospić, drive along road D50 toward the Lika Plains. After approximately 15 km, turn right onto the local road passing through Donje Pazarište and Lički Novi, then follow signs to Kruškovac. The village sits on a slightly elevated area and is easily recognized by its traditional houses and natural surroundings.
📍 HOT TO GET TO HOTEL ANA, GOSPIĆ
The Hotel Ana in Gospić is easily reachable by car or on foot from the city center. It is located along the main road, with convenient access and parking for guests.
🚗 By Car
From the A1 highway, take the Gospić exit.
Continue along the D534 road, which connects to D25/D50 and leads directly into the town center of Gospić (approx. 2.5 km).
🚌 By Public Transport
Gospić is accessible by bus or train from cities like Zagreb or Split.
Once you arrive at the bus or train station in Gospić, Hotel Ana is within walking distance, as it is located in or near the town center.
🏥MEDICAL & TRAVEL INSURANCE
We recommend arranging comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment, accidents and hospital care during your stay in Croatia.
If required, we can arrange the insurance for you at an additional cost.
🎒 BASIC HIKING GEAR:
Daypack (20–30 L)
Sturdy hiking boots with grippy soles
Layered clothing: quick‑dry short‑sleeve base layer, long‑sleeve or fleece mid‑layer, windproof/waterproof jacket, full‑length hiking trousers, hat or buff + sunglasses, lightweight gloves (if in cooler season), spare socks and shirt
🥤 FOOD & HYDRATION:
Water, at least 2 L
Energy snacks, like bars, nuts, dried fruit, light meal or sandwich for lunch
🧭 SAFETY & NAVIGATION:
Fully charged phone
Basic first‑aid kit
☀️ WEATHER & SUN PROTECTION:
Sunscreen (high SPF)
Lip balm with UV protection
Insect & tick repellent (e.g. Autan or similar)
❄️RECOMENDED WINTER EQUIPMENT:
Waterproof and warm hiking boots with good grip
Layered clothing (thermal base, fleece or softshell, waterproof jacket)
Hat, gloves, scarf or buff
Trekking poles (especially useful on icy sections)
Gaiters for snow
Backpack with spare clothes, warm drink, and food
Headlamp (short daylight hours in winter)
Microspikes or light snowshoes (depending on snow depth)
🎫 DOCUMENTS & MISCELLANEOUS:
ID or passport
❗WE ARE OPEN FOR YOUR IDEAS & WISHES
In addition to the standard offer, we are open for the option of custom-made tours in order to best adapt to our guests' needs, so if you have an idea feel free to suggest and we will try to put together something meaningful.
This experience involves
Hiking
Wildlife photography
Educational experience
Herbivores in this landscape
Tauros
Wild horse
Red deer
Roe deer
European rabbit
Carnivores in this landscape
Grey wolf
Eurasian lynx
Wildcat
Scavengers and other large birds in this landscape
Griffon vulture
Eagle owl
Location
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About the listing author
Hello, I'm Majda.
I’m Majda, your local guide to Croatia’s wild side.
I’m a certified tour guide with over 10 years of experience in outdoor tourism, licensed across 8 Croatian counties. But more than anything, I’m passionate about being outside – combining my love for nature and history into meaningful, small-scale adventures.
Mass tourism never felt right to me. That’s why I focus on sustainable travel – sharing Croatia’s natural beauty in a way that respects the land and supports local communities.
Through my work with the Rewilding Foundation, I help promote a new, more conscious way of exploring the outdoors.
My favorite mountain is Velebit.
Come and discover its magic with me – let’s hike, learn and fall in love with nature all over again.
I’m Majda, your local guide to Croatia’s wild side.
I’m a certified tour guide with over 10 years of experience in outdoor tourism, licensed across 8 Croatian counties. But more than anything, I’m passionate about being outside – combining my love for nature and history into meaningful, small-scale adventures.
Mass tourism never felt right to me. That’s why I focus on sustainable travel – sharing Croatia’s natural beauty in a way that respects the land and supports local communities.
Through my work with the Rewilding Foundation, I help promote a new, more conscious way of exploring the outdoors.
My favorite mountain is Velebit.
Come and discover its magic with me – let’s hike, learn and fall in love with nature all over again.
