Photo owner Modzzak – Link
Učka Nature Park is a protected area located in the Istria region of Croatia. It covers an area of 160 km² and includes the Učka mountain range, which rises up to 1,401 meters above sea level. The park is characterized by a diverse landscape of karst terrain, forests, grasslands, and rocky peaks, offering visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Flora: The park’s vegetation is very diverse, with over 1,400 plant species recorded. The lower parts of the mountain range are covered by deciduous and coniferous forests, while the upper parts are dominated by grasslands and rocky terrain. The forests are mainly composed of oak, beech, and chestnut trees, with some areas also featuring black pine and fir. The park is home to several rare plant species, including the endemic Učka bellflower (Campanula tommasiniana).
Photo owner Fritz Geller-Grimm – Link
Fauna: Učka Nature Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including several endangered species. The park’s forests are home to red deer, roe deer, wild boar, and several species of birds, such as the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, and Eurasian eagle-owl. The park is also home to several species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Hermann’s tortoise, common viper, and common frog.
Photo owner Karlori – Link
Hotels: There are several hotels and accommodations available in and around the park. The most popular is the Hotel Kvarner Palace, a luxurious hotel located in the nearby town of Crikvenica, which offers a range of amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and restaurant. Other options include the Hotel Villa Učka, located in the village of Lovran, and the Camping Učka, a campsite located in the park itself.
Restaurants: There are several restaurants and cafes located in the park, offering visitors a chance to try traditional Croatian cuisine. The most popular is the Konoba Učka, located in the village of Mala Učka, which offers a range of local dishes, including grilled meat and seafood. Other options include the Restaurant Draga, located in the village of Lovran, and the Restaurant Plasa, located in the nearby town of Opatija, which offers a range of Mediterranean cuisine.
