Canyon Kama nik : Canyoneering : SummitPost

Kamačnik is the river in Gorski Kotar region, in the Dinaric Alps. The river is only 3 km long and at the end it flows in Dobra river close to Vrbovsko. The river shaped the canyon into Velika Kapela massive. The canyon was due to its attractiveness proclaimed as protected landscape.

Kamačnik river

Kamačnik river source

Wooden bridge across the Kamačnik river

Although it is a very short river, Kamačnik has a lot of water. This is because the water emerges from the underground caves and not as a result of rainy jets accumulation on the surface.

Along the Kamačnik river/canyon a walking trail was built in the year 1961. with wooden bridges and galleries. With its breathtaking scenery, canyon Kamačnik has been the focus of tourist attention for many years now. The trail bridges are special attraction and an endless art inspiration, and each meter of this beautiful river is different from the previous one. The river is crystal clear, and the canyon itself is rich with protected plants and animal species.

Tourist facility "Kamačnik" is situated at the mouth of the river, offering visitors a resting place and local dishes. Throughout the year it provides various forms of entertainment.

Canyon Kamačnik is an ideal destination for an activity holiday - hiking, picnics etc.

The river Dobra

In Vrbovsko area, there is also an extremely attractive river Dobra.

River Dobra

Winding through a beautiful fields and forests, the river is known for its diverse banks as well as crystal clear water.

It is 22 km long, particulary stream, with many valued fish species that inhabit the river, such as trout.

Therefore, it provides various activities regarding sport and tourism. Fishing is allowed provided you own a fishing license.

Mountains in the area

Canyon Kamačnik is situated among some less known mountains of Velika Kapela group
such as:

Lovnik (902 m) - 2 hours from Vrbovsko
Javorova kosa (1015 m)
Debela Kosa (1169 m)
Bukovica (1253 m)
Bijela kosa (1289 m) - 4 hours from the canyon entrance
Mirkovica (1283 m)
Smolnik (1219 m)

The town Vrbovsko

Vrbovsko town seen from Bijela Kosa mountain

Vrbovsko is a town situated in the far east of Gorski Kotar region on the Dobra river. With its 280 square kilometres area, Vrbovsko municipality covers 60 villages and 6 100 people. Town economy is based on farming and wood-processing.

Vrbovsko is surrounded by forests, pastures and meadows and is an attractive place for vacations in nature. Picturesque courses of three rivers, the Kupa, the Dobra and the Kamačnik, provide opportunities for hiking, kayaking and canoeing.

Recreational facilities include tennis courts, basketball and football playgrounds and a bowling alley. Hunting, fishing and horseback riding are also possible.

Local gastronomic specialities include venison, home-made cheese, etc.

Getting there

The town Vrbovsko is situated on the transit lines halfway between Zagreb and Rijeka city. Good rail and road connections provide for quick arrival to Vrbovsko. The best option is by car, using the highway A6 and wait for the exit sign towards the Vrbovsko.

From the Vrbovsko center you look for KANJON KAMAČNIK sign (aslo for Railway station) where you turn and drive for another 5 min (cross the rail) untill you reach the entrance, where is parking lot and small restaurant.

Best time to visit

Canyon Kamačnik can be visited through out the hole year.

Kamačnik river scenery near the source

River Kamačnik source

Kamačnik river bed

Accomodation

There are various combination of private accommodations, such as rooms, apartments and small houses.

Best info can be received through the Tourist office in Vrbovsko.

More informations

For information on large group arrangements or hiring a professional tour guide, please contact the Tourist Board.

Scenery from Kamačnik river

Tourist board of Vrbovsko village:

Working hours: Mon-Fri: 7,00-15,00 h
Sat: 10,00-14,00 h

Tel/fax: +385 51 875 984

E-mail: turisticka.zajednica.grada.vrbovsko@ri.t-com.hr

Website: http://www.tz-vrbovsko.hr/vrbovsko-eng.html

Red tape

Canyon Kamačnik is protected landscape and therefore it is protected by the Croatian Low on Nature Protection.

"Protected landscape is a natural or cultivated district of more aesthetic or cultural and historic value, or a landscape characteristic of a particular region. In protected landscapes are not allowed actions that violate the characteristics of
which is declared."