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Mala Kapela
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Mountain
Mala Kapela is a mountain range in central Croatia that forms a transitional zone between Velika Kapela to the northwest and the Plješivica range to the southeast. Part of the Dinaric Alps, it effectively separates the Lika plateau from the Kordun region. The highest peak is Seliški vrh, reaching 1,279 meters, situated in the southern part of the massif near Plitvice Lakes National Park. The mountains are primarily composed of limestone and dolomite, resulting in extensive karst topography including caves and underground rivers. The range is most widely known for the Mala Kapela Tunnel, which at 5.8 kilometers is the longest road tunnel in Croatia, carrying the A1 highway through the heart of the mountain. The dense forests of beech and fir provide a critical habitat for large carnivores such as wolves, lynx, and brown bears.
- Location: Croatia
- Nearby: Podum (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 5 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 21 | 21 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 95 | 103 | 89 | 94 | 109 | 86 | 69 | 85 | 140 | 124 | 141 | 111 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The mountain massif stretching between Gorski Kotar and Lika is mostly accessible via the roads of the surrounding valleys. Many mountain trails begin somewhat inconspicuously in rural areas near the source of the Korana river or along mountain passes.
Best season
The late spring months to early autumn are by far the safest for mountain tours in this specific region. During this time, the dense forests are brilliantly green and shady, while winter brings expectations of considerable snow and dangerously icy paths.
Terrain & paths
The relief consists of heavily forested slopes, deep sprawling valleys, and typical karst formations. The untouched nature provides many forest roads and mountain trails that can climb quite steeply and navigate through terrain with somewhat limited visibility.
What to bring
Sturdy mountain boots, a highly reliable physical or digital topographic map, and ample provisions are strictly mandatory. A first-aid kit and extra warm clothing should always be included in your backpack, even during seemingly mild summer hikes.
Parking
In this profoundly wild mountain region, parking spots are usually not formally designated. Visitors often comfortably leave their vehicles on the edges of pass roads or at the very ends of small forest tracks without blocking the passage for others.
Safety
The vastness and dense tree cover greatly increase the risk of getting lost; solid navigation skills are truly essential. Large wild animals, such as bears, also inhabit this area, so one must always remain highly alert when walking on the forest paths.
Time needed
Hikes in this massive range are mostly thoughtfully designed as highly demanding full-day tours. Discovering the hidden springs and deeper forests generally takes a whole day, especially if you actively venture slightly off the more widely known routes.
Geography
Facts
- Highest peak: Seliški vrh at 1,279 meters.
- The Mala Kapela Tunnel spans 5,801 meters.
- Separates the Lika plateau from the Kordun region.
- Primarily composed of Mesozoic limestone and dolomite.
- Bordered by the Plitvice Lakes National Park.
- Features the longest road tunnel on the A1 highway.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mala Kapela (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Mala Kapela located?
Southeast of Velika Kapela, forming a link towards the Velebit range.
What is the most famous place in this mountain range?
A large part of the Plitvice Lakes is located on the slopes of Mala Kapela.
How high are the peaks of Mala Kapela?
They are somewhat lower than Velika Kapela's, with heights up to 1280m (Seliški vrh).
Are there highway tunnels through the mountain?
Yes, the 5.8 km long Mala Kapela tunnel on the A1 highway passes through it.
What characterizes the flora?
Extensive beech and fir forests characterize the landscape.
Mala Kapela: where is it located?
Mala Kapela is located in Croatia.
Mala Kapela: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mala Kapela: why is it worth visiting?
Mala Kapela is a mountain range in central Croatia that forms a transitional zone between Velika Kapela to the northwest and the Plješivica range to the southeast.
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