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Source of the Una

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River
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Source of the Una (Croatia)

Weather…

The source of the Una River is located in the southern part of the Lika region, near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, close to the village of Donja Suvaja. It is considered one of the deepest karst springs in the world, having been explored by divers to a record depth of 248 meters without reaching the end of the vertical shaft. The spring forms a circular lake with intense blue-green water, situated at the foot of the Stražbenica and Čemernica mountains. The entire area around the source was declared a hydrological natural monument in 1968, covering an area of about 160 hectares. The Una is notable for its extremely clean water and richness in brown trout. The surroundings are characterized by untouched wilderness and provide habitat for numerous protected animal species such as the golden eagle and chamois. Historically, the spring was an important reference point for the local population and today serves as a major destination for ecological tourism. Its constant water flow makes the Una one of the most water-rich right tributaries of the Sava River.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-104913171920141051
Rain mm9292808289765471113105129109

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The impressive karst spring of the Una is usually accessible via a narrow rural road in the quiet border region, which is often followed by a short, highly scenic walk through the forest to reach the deep source.
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Best season
Late spring and the warm summer months are particularly suitable for a visit, when the surrounding nature is lush and green, and the ice-cold, crystal-clear water feels wonderfully refreshing to tired hikers.
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Terrain & paths
The terrain immediately surrounding the deep spring can be somewhat steep and uneven in places, but well-established paths or safe wooden walkways typically lead visitors directly to the best viewpoint of the area.
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What to bring
Comfortable, slip-resistant footwear is highly recommended due to the damp environment, alongside a light jacket, as the ambient air near the icy spring water can be noticeably cooler even on hot days.
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Parking
Practical parking facilities are typically located quite close to the start of the main access trail, requiring arriving visitors to cover the remaining scenic distance on foot in order to reach their final destination.
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Safety
Visitors should constantly watch out for wet, highly slippery stones near the water's edge and must never attempt to climb over the official safety barriers at this powerful and impressive vertical spring.
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Time needed
A typical visit to this deeply idyllic natural spot usually lasts about one to two hours, which provides ample time for everyone to walk around slowly and thoroughly admire the striking crystal-clear hydrological monument.

Geography

Coordinates
44.40100, 16.10300

Facts

  • Record explored depth: 248 meters
  • Year of protection: 1968
  • Water temperature: approx. 7.9 °C
  • Protected area size: 160 hectares
  • Location: Stražbenica and Čemernica mountains
  • Type: Vaucluse-style karst spring

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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 nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Una spring located?
It is located in the village of Donja Suvaja, near the border between Croatia and Bosnia.
How deep is the spring?
It is one of the deepest karst springs in the world; divers have reached a depth of 248 meters so far.
Do you have to pay for the visit?
Yes, a small entrance fee is charged for the maintenance of the natural monument.
Is the path to the spring paved?
There is a nicely maintained hiking trail with wooden walkways that leads to the spring in about 15-20 minutes.
What does the name 'Una' mean?
According to legend, a Roman soldier exclaimed 'Una!', meaning 'The One!', when he saw the river's beauty.
Source of the Una: where is it located?
Source of the Una is located in Croatia.
Source of the Una: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Source of the Una: why is it worth visiting?
The source of the Una River is located in the southern part of the Lika region, near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, close to the village of Donja Suvaja.
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