Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Vacation rentals in Mrkopalj

Discover Mrkopalj in Kvarner Hills—where your family can hike green trails, picnic by clear lakes, and enjoy snowy winters in a friendly Croatian mountain town.

Mrkopalj Vacation Rentals

Friday
4°C39°F

Newest

Luxury rentals

Tips on renting in Mrkopalj

Getting Around

When you visit Mrkopalj in the scenic Kvarner Hills, your family will love exploring the magical Lokvarsko Lake, where calm mornings invite you to paddle, fish, or picnic on grassy shores while kids splash and play. The lush forests of Bijele and Samarske Stijene Nature Reserve offer gentle hiking trails perfect for curious young explorers, with picnic spots and breathtaking views around every bend. In every season, Mrkopalj’s natural beauty and welcoming lakeside amenities make it the perfect family escape in Croatia’s Kvarner Hills.

What to Pack

Pack your bags for a family adventure in Mrkopalj, nestled in Croatia’s scenic Kvarner Hills. For winter, bring warm jackets, snow boots, and gloves for days at Čelimbaša Ski Resort, where kids can try sledding while parents enjoy the slopes. In summer, don’t forget swimsuits, sun hats, and sandals for lakeside picnics by Lokvarsko Lake or a family outing to Crikvenica Beach, just a short drive away. Add hiking shoes, board games, portable chargers, and your favorite snacks for cozy evenings in your charming mountain cabin.

Must-Try Activities

In the heart of Gorski Kotar, Mrkopalj offers families a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Explore scenic hiking trails through lush forests, perfect for all ages, or embark on a family-friendly mountain biking journey along well-marked paths. In winter, the Čelimbaša ski resort transforms into a snowy playground, where children can enjoy sledding and beginners can take their first steps on skis. The area also hosts local festivals, providing a taste of traditional Croatian music and cuisine, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.

Smart Spending Tips

Budgeting for a family vacation to Mrkopalj in the Kvarner Hills of Croatia is refreshingly simple. Plan for a daily budget of €80 per person, or around €320 for a family of four, including cozy mountain lodges and hearty meals. Enjoy kid-friendly adventures like the "Green Trails Family Bike Tour" with Kvarner Hills Outdoor for €25 per person, winding through lush forests and tranquil lakesides. After a day exploring, treat your family to a lakeside dinner at Restoran Mrkopalj, where a delicious meal averages €18 per adult.Budgeting for a family vacation to Mrkopalj in the Kvarner Hills of Croatia is refreshingly simple. Plan for a daily budget of €80 per person, or around €320 for a family of four, including cozy mountain lodges and hearty meals. Enjoy kid-friendly adventures like the "Green Trails Family Bike Tour" with Kvarner Hills Outdoor for €25 per person, winding through lush forests and tranquil lakesides. After a day exploring, treat your family to a lakeside dinner at Restoran Mrkopalj, where a delicious meal averages €18 per adult.

Mrkopalj in the Kvarner Hills is a charming Croatian destination for family travelers seeking outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Start at Bijela Vodica, a scenic area perfect for hiking and picnics. Visit the Church of Saint Philip and James, a historical landmark in the town center. Explore the Mrkopalj Ski Resort, a favorite for winter sports and summer mountain biking. Families can join guided tours like the Ravna Gora Adventure Trail, offering forest walks and wildlife spotting. Stop by Planinarski Dom Bijele Stijene, a mountain lodge providing local cuisine and warm hospitality. The Vrelo Cave is a unique geological site worth exploring. For a taste of local life, visit the family-friendly Konoba Tilia restaurant and savor traditional Gorski Kotar dishes. Don’t miss the chance to rent bikes at Mrkopalj Outdoor and cycle through the lush forests. Mrkopalj offers a perfect blend of nature, activity, and local culture.

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to see what Mrkopalj has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Mrkopalj, Croatia invites families to experience the serene beauty of Gorski Kotar, where lush forests and rolling hills create a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. The village is renowned for its winter sports at Čelimbaša Ski Resort, while warmer months offer scenic hiking and cycling trails through Risnjak National Park. Children will delight in spotting wildlife and exploring the charming local architecture, making Mrkopalj a hidden gem for families seeking both relaxation and adventure in an authentic alpine setting.

  • Mrkopalj, a charming village in Croatia’s Gorski Kotar region, is compact and walkable, making it ideal for families who want to explore on foot. You can easily stroll between the scenic Church of Saint Philip and Jacob, the local shops, and the picturesque surrounding forests. However, if you wish to venture further into Risnjak National Park or visit nearby towns like Delnice, renting a car will give you more flexibility and convenience.

  • In Mrkopalj, most properties are conveniently located within a short walk or drive to the lush forests of Gorski Kotar, offering immediate access to outdoor attractions like Bijele and Samarske Stijene, renowned for their dramatic limestone formations. The area is surrounded by marked hiking and biking trails, and the popular Čelimbaša ski resort is just minutes away, making it easy for visitors to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy year-round activities in this scenic Croatian mountain village.

  • In Mrkopalj, your weekend can be filled with adventure and relaxation in the heart of Gorski Kotar. Start by exploring the enchanting forests and hiking trails of Bijele and Samarske stijene, a protected area known for its dramatic limestone formations. Visit the charming Church of Saint Philip and James in the village center, then unwind by sampling local dishes at a rustic konoba. During winter, enjoy skiing or sledding at Čelimbaša Ski Resort, and in warmer months, try cycling or kayaking on the nearby Kupa River.

  • In Mrkopalj, one of the cleanest and safest swimming spots is the Lokvarsko Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear water and tranquil environment. Surrounded by lush Gorski Kotar forests, this lake offers a refreshing escape with designated swimming areas and gentle shores perfect for families. The water quality is regularly monitored, ensuring a safe experience. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic mountain views and nearby hiking trails, making it a favorite destination for both relaxation and adventure.

  • During the colder months, Mrkopalj transforms into a lively winter destination with its renowned Snow Queen Trophy ski race, attracting athletes and spectators to the slopes of the Čelimbaša Ski Resort. The village also hosts local winter fairs where visitors can savor homemade rakija and traditional Gorski Kotar cuisine while enjoying folk music and crafts. The nearby Risnjak National Park offers guided snowshoeing tours, adding to the festive atmosphere and making Mrkopalj a charming hub for winter celebrations.

  • Traveling within Mrkopalj is quite affordable, as this small Croatian village is best explored on foot due to its compact size and scenic surroundings. If you need to venture further, local taxis are available, typically costing around 5 to 10 euros for short rides. Public transportation options are limited, so most visitors rely on walking to reach attractions like Bijele Stijene or the charming St. Philip and Jacob Church, making transportation costs minimal during your stay.

Rent a property

Looking for a great place to stay. Begin your adventure now!

Cottage on a lake