How do I get to Učka Nature Park?

Učka is easily accessible by car from Rijeka, Pula, and other parts of Istria. The main entrance is at Poklon Pass, where you’ll find a visitor center.

Is there an entrance fee?

No, visiting Učka Nature Park is free, though some guided tours may require payment.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer offers great visibility from Vojak, while winter brings snow, creating a different kind of beauty.

Can I camp in Učka Nature Park?

Camping is not allowed inside the park, but there are campsites and accommodations in nearby towns such as Lovran, Opatija, and Medveja, offering a range of options from budget-friendly to luxury stays.

What should I bring for hiking?

Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

Učka Nature Park: Hikes, Vojak Tower & Vela Draga Views

Perched above the Adriatic coast, Učka Nature Park, Istria is where mountains meet the sea. Spanning about 160 km² across Mount Učka and part of the Ćićarija range, it has been protected since 1999. Just a short drive from Opatija and Lovran, the park offers dramatic peaks, limestone canyons, and rich biodiversity—perfect for hikers, climbers, paragliders, and families.

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Why Učka Nature Park is Special

The park’s highest peak, Vojak (1,401 m), is crowned with a stone lookout tower built in 1911. From here, you can admire sweeping views over Istria, the Kvarner islands, and, on clear days, even the Alps and Italy. Učka is also home to Vela Draga, a canyon of limestone spires that lure climbers and photographers. Its beech forests shelter more than 170 bird species, and botanists treasure the rare Učka bellflower (Campanula tommasiniana) found nowhere else in the world.

At Poklon Pass (922 m), the main gateway, visitors find parking, trailheads, and the modern Poklon Visitor Centre, which features interactive exhibits, a café, and a playground.

Top Things to Do in Učka Nature Park

Classic Hikes

Poklon–Vojak loop (7 km, +451 m): The park’s signature route, leading to the summit tower and back through shady beech forests. Well-marked and suitable for moderately fit hikers.
Korita Spring & Veli Planik: From the mountain village of Brgudac, hike to Korita’s traditional wooden troughs, then continue to Veli Planik (1,272 m) for panoramic views.

Family-Friendly Trails

Vela Draga Educational Trail: A short path to a viewpoint over 50–90 m limestone towers. A longer route descends to the canyon floor where climbers tackle the spires.
Stražica–Sapaćica Land Art Trail: A 6.5 km loop blending sculptures with meadows and cliffs, ideal for families and casual walkers.
Trebišća–Perun Mythical-Historical Trail: A cultural walk above Mošćenička Draga with Adriatic views, where panels share Slavic myths tied to the land.

Adventure Activities

Paragliding: Launch sites at Vojak and Brgud offer thrilling flights above the Kvarner Gulf. Tandem rides are available from Opatija and Lovran.
Poklon Visitor Centre: Perfect for families or rainy days, with hands-on exhibits, a café, and an outdoor play area. Also the best place for updated maps and shuttle details.

Practical Information

Best Time to Go

Spring: Wildflowers and mild weather.
Summer: Cooler than the coast but windy on ridges.
Autumn: Stable weather, chestnut festivals, and golden forests.
Winter: Snow creates a peaceful landscape—bring proper gear.

Getting There

By car: Drive the scenic road over Poklon Pass. The A8 Učka Tunnel bypasses the mountain but skips the views.
By bus: A limited Sunday and holiday bus (line 34) connects Opatija to Poklon. Check schedules before you go.

Tickets & Fees

Park entry: free
Parking at Poklon: €5–8/day
Visitor Centre: €6–10/adult, seasonal pricing
Shuttle van Poklon–Vojak: €5 return

Seasonal Events

Učka Fair (September): The largest heritage fair in the region, held at Poklon, with local crafts, foods, and music.
Lovran Marunada (October): Celebrates the sweet maruni chestnuts over three weekends, making autumn hikes especially rewarding.

Wildlife & Nature Highlights

Dense forests are home to roe deer, wild boar, and birds of prey. Orchids thrive here, alongside the endemic Učka bellflower, which blooms only on these slopes.

Where to Stay

Most visitors base themselves in 🔍Opatija or 🔍Lovran, just 30 minutes from Poklon Pass. Both towns offer hotels, villas, and apartments, along with restaurants, beaches, and coastal promenades. Staying by the sea lets you balance mountain adventures with seaside relaxation.

Travel Tips

Carry water, layers, and sturdy shoes—weather can change quickly.
Trails are marked, but a map or GPS is helpful on longer hikes.
Bora winds are strong—avoid exposed ridges during storms.
Respect zones used by climbers and paragliders at Vela Draga and Vojak.

FAQs About Učka Nature Park

Is Učka Nature Park free to enter?
Yes. Only parking, the visitor centre, and shuttle services have fees.

How hard is the Poklon–Vojak hike?
It is a 7 km loop with +451 m of ascent, moderate difficulty, suitable for most hikers.

Can I get to Učka without a car?
Yes, but options are limited. A bus runs on Sundays and holidays from Opatija.

What is Vela Draga famous for?
Its limestone pinnacles and climbing routes make it a striking landmark.

Is Učka family-friendly?
Yes. The visitor centre, Land Art Trail, and Vela Draga viewpoint are accessible for children.

When are the best views from Vojak?
After a bora wind clears the skies, you can sometimes see as far as the Alps.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Učka Nature Park, Istria combines wild nature with easy access. Hike to Vojak, marvel at Vela Draga, or take to the skies on a paraglider—the park rewards you with unforgettable experiences. Pair your visit with a stay in Opatija or Lovran for the perfect mix of mountain adventure and seaside charm.

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