Croatia is getting ready to celebrate its thirteenth nature park, and this one is truly special. Zagorske Gore will be the first protected area of its kind in the northern part of the country, bringing well-deserved attention to the peaceful landscapes of Hrvatsko Zagorje. With the government sending the proposal for approval to Parliament, years of dedication to preserving this unique region are finally paying off.

A Landscape Shaped by Mountains and Tradition

The new park will cover a generous stretch of more than three hundred square kilometres across Krapina-Zagorje and Varaždin counties. Its borders include the mountains that give Zagorje its soul, among them Maceljska, Ravna, Strahinjčica and Ivanščica, as well as the charming Bednja area. On its northwestern edge, the park even touches the border with Slovenia, adding a lovely cross-border touch to its already rich identity.

A Haven for Plants, Animals and Nature Lovers

Zagorske Gore is bursting with life. More than twelve hundred plant species have been recorded here, which means that a fifth of all Croatian flora grows in this relatively small area. Orchids are especially abundant, with forty-six species and subspecies decorating meadows in spring. The region is also home to 60% of all bat species in Croatia. This amazing diversity thrives thanks to a mosaic of habitats that include lush forests, wide grasslands, the flowing Bednja river, quiet wetlands and mysterious caves. By becoming a nature park, these precious ecosystems will gain stronger protection for the future.

Protected Gems Already Inside the Park

The value of this area is clear from the treasures it already holds. Mačkova Cave is known as a natural monument, while Vindija Cave carries global significance due to its famous Neanderthal discoveries. The beloved Trakošćan forest and its fairytale castle add historical charm to the landscape. The presence of eight Natura 2000 sites with thirty three targeted habitats and species shows just how important this region is on a European level.

What truly sets Zagorske Gore apart is the way nature and culture intertwine. The region is home to valuable paleontological and archaeological sites that tell stories reaching far into the past. Traditional landscapes shaped through centuries of coexistence between people and nature give the area a warmth and authenticity that visitors instantly feel. Protecting this heritage ensures that both locals and travellers can continue enjoying a place where history and nature gently blend together.

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A New Croatian Treasure Ready to Shine

As the official declaration of the Zagorske Gore Nature Park approaches, excitement is growing throughout the region. With its rich biodiversity, cultural depth and calm rural charm, this new park is set to become a favourite escape for anyone looking to reconnect with nature, breathe a little deeper and experience a more peaceful side of Croatia.

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