There is nothing quite like trekking through the Dinaride mountains of Velebit. The UNESCO-protected landscapes here are best seen on foot along the well-trodden hiking trails, including the famous Premužićeva trail, that take you through the mountains and offer stunning views of the countryside and ocean from up high.
Whether you’re an experienced rock climber or have just recently fallen in love with this thrilling activity, Zadar Region is a perfect rock climbing playground for you to master your skills. It’s got something to offer to just about anyone who wishes to get away from the city noises and get that adrenaline fix to keep you going.
There are multiple sites where you can go rock climbing and the best part is that they’re all very close to one another.
Make your trip to Croatia a bit more special and treat yourself to some fun rock climbing this summer! You’ll love the views, weather, and crisp clear air that’s on those heights.
Paklenica Rock Climbing
Fascinating, thrilling, exciting, divine... The list of words to describe Paklenica is endless.
Apart from the picturesque landscapes that make you fall in love with this mountain at the first sight, there are incredible rock climbing routes you should definitely try. It’s the heart of Croatian rock climbing, as well as the most visited climbing site. Give Paklenica a go and you’ll find out why it’s one of the top European rock-climbing areas!
The possibilities are seemingly infinite as you can choose from 590 well-equipped marked routes varying in difficulty and length, assuring there’s something for just about anyone.
The Velika Paklenica canyon reaches impressive heights - it goes as high as 700m up, with the width varying from 50-800m and measuring around 14 km in length. Just imagine the view of the nearby islands from that high up!
Klanci - a children's favorite
If you’d like to have some bonding time with your children while on a vacation, we recommend you try some short routes situated in Klanci, the narrowest part of the Velika Paklenica canyon. Your kids are going to be absolutely thrilled to take on this challenge and will be gifted with a wonderful sense of pride afterward. There’s literally no better way to teach your kids the importance of physical activity from a young age than this.
And if you happen to visit Croatia in the wintertime, we highly recommend the Crljenica sector.
Anića kuk
Anića kuk - a name that inspires awe even among the most experienced climbers. It’s undoubtedly the most famous rock for climbing, as well as the biggest rock in Croatia. However, don't panic, because experience, goodwill, quality equipment, and good company create the winning toolset needed to conquer this magnificent boulder.
The routes vary in length, the longest being 350m. You can also choose between unequipped and aid routes to modern, long, sports routes. The best time to visit is from spring until late autumn.
If you aren’t ready to conquer Anića kuk just yet, don’t fret. We’re sure you’ll enjoy your time among the rocks of Debeli kuk, or Veliki ćuk.
Climbing season
The best time to go rock climbing in Paklenica is from spring to late autumn. If you happen to be here on May 1st, you may witness the International Climbers’ Meeting.
Pro Tips
Paklenica Avanturist is going to be your best friend if you’re a rock climbing lover. You can rent climbing gear and take on some rock climbing classes appropriate for all age ranges (even as young as 5 years old!)
Needless to say, bring appropriate clothing and footwear, as well as enough food and water.
Molat rock climbing
Molat is another fantastic rock climbing destination, and here’s why…
It’s a picturesque island filled with adrenaline-filled things to do, rock climbing being one of them. Just a 50-minute catamaran away from Zadar, it’s the perfect way to spend your ordinary afternoon.
Molat is one of the most popular rock-climbing destinations for beginners, as the routes go only up to 8m in height. You can choose from 10 routes that vary in difficulty.
A good time with good vibes is guaranteed!
Muškovci rock-climbing
Just a couple kilometers away from the Zrmanja canyon, lies another great rock-climbing spot.
The Muškovic - Mamet - Vilenski kukovi - Panoga route is famous among rock climbers, hikers, and hikers. You’ll love the greenery this trail abounds, as well as the soothing sounds of nature. The scenery and entire tranquil atmosphere is everything you need to recharge after a hectic work week.
Simply amazing.
Pag rock climbing
There’s more to Pag than just Zrće and energetic festivals. Pag has numerous natural beauties that are waiting for you to discover them. Naturally, this moonlike island has something special and unlike anything you’ve ever seen before set up just for you to enjoy.
The most famous cliff you can climb is the Stogaj cliff. It’s situated on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island - Bertinica. Just imagine the rewarding view you’ll get from above as you gaze down the beach. This easy 10m climb is appropriate for absolute beginners. Therefore, everybody is welcome to try this cliff out. It’s a great way to get into rock climbing if you haven’t tried it before.
And for those who are in the mood to take up a more serious challenge, the Scorpion and Spyder route are waiting for you.
Climbing is an activity that not many people dare to do. However, those who have tackled their fears and taken a step outside their comfort zone know that there is nothing to be afraid of.
Each time you conquer a rock, you conquer a part of yourself that convinced you you couldn't do it, weren't capable enough and were unready.
Each time you conquer a rock, your spirit and body merge more and more into one and work in magnificent harmony.
Mind clarity, mindfulness, and peace. These are the greatest gifts of rock climbing.
