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Source of the Kupa
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The source of the Kupa River is located within the Risnjak National Park in the Gorski Kotar mountain region and is considered one of Croatia's deepest and most impressive karst springs. The water emerges in an oval, deep-blue pond surrounded by steep limestone cliffs and dense coniferous forests. Known as 'Vrelo Kupe', the spring lies at an altitude of 313 meters above sea level. Speleological diving expeditions have explored the spring to a depth of over 150 meters, although the actual bottom has not yet been reached. The water temperature remains constant at about 7 degrees Celsius year-round, indicating the deep origin of the water from underground karst systems. The Kupa River later forms a natural border between Croatia and Slovenia over long stretches. The area around the source is characterized by exceptional botanical diversity, including rare orchid species and endemic ferns. A marked hiking trail from the village of Razloge leads visitors through pristine nature to this hydrological monument.
- Location: Croatia
- Top sights: Razloški Okrug · Razloge · Donja Krašićevica
- Nearby: Risnjak NP (Crni Lug) (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 | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 14 | 10 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 81 | 96 | 83 | 85 | 105 | 88 | 71 | 89 | 131 | 122 | 139 | 109 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The spring is typically reached within Risnjak National Park via marked hiking trails starting in the surrounding villages of Gorski Kotar. Access requires a solid hike through forested and sometimes quite demanding valleys to reach the site.
Best season
The summer months offer the most pleasant conditions for admiring the deep blue karst water beneath the towering cliffs. In spring, after the snow melts, the spring has the highest water volume, whereas winter hiking can often be quite dangerous.
Terrain & paths
The terrain descends steeply through dense forests down to a quiet, deep lake completely surrounded by steep cliffs. Trails can be rocky, interspersed with tree roots, and exceptionally slippery near the water, particularly after rainfall.
What to bring
Sturdy footwear with a deep tread is absolutely essential for the steep descents and ascents in this karst area. Good physical fitness, warm clothing for the cooler shaded sections, and plenty of drinking water are highly recommended.
Parking
Official parking areas are mostly found in the villages that serve as starting points for the hiking trails into the national park. It is highly advised to leave vehicles only in designated areas to avoid disturbing the sensitive natural environment.
Safety
The karst terrain harbors dangers such as hidden crevices and steep drop-offs; leaving the marked trails must therefore be strictly avoided. The deep water of the spring is extremely cold, which is why swimming is generally strongly discouraged.
Time needed
For the hike down to the spring and the subsequent return journey, a total of about three to five hours should be scheduled. The actual walking time depends heavily on the chosen starting point and individual pace over the very uneven terrain.
Geography
Facts
- Explored depth: over 154 meters
- Water temperature: constant approx. 7 °C
- Elevation of the source: 313 meters
- Location: Risnjak National Park
- Status: Hydrological natural monument
- Nearest settlement: Razloge
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Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Source of the Kupa (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Kupa source located?
It is located in the Risnjak National Park, near the village of Razloge in Gorski Kotar.
What is special about the source?
It is a deep blue, lake-like karst spring whose explored depth exceeds 150 meters.
How long does the hike to the source take?
From the village of Razloge, the descent takes about 30-45 minutes, the return uphill a bit longer.
Is the water suitable for drinking?
Yes, the water is extremely clean and of drinking water quality.
Are there many butterflies?
Yes, the upper Kupa valley is also called the 'Valley of Butterflies' as hundreds of species live here.
Source of the Kupa: where is it located?
Source of the Kupa is located in Croatia.
Source of the Kupa: what is there to see?
Highlights include Razloški Okrug, Razloge, Donja Krašićevica.
Source of the Kupa: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Source of the Kupa: why is it worth visiting?
The source of the Kupa River is located within the Risnjak National Park in the Gorski Kotar mountain region and is considered one of Croatia's deepest and most impressive karst springs.
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