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Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant, located near the town of Omiš at the mouth of the Cetina River, is the most powerful electricity-generating facility in Croatia. As a key component of the Cetina River hydropower system, the plant utilizes the significant elevation drop and water volume of the river to produce clean, renewable energy. The facility was constructed in two major stages, with the first phase completed in 1961 and the second in 1980. Featuring a total installed capacity of approximately 486 megawatts and an average annual production of 1,450 gigawatt-hours, it is vital for the stability of the Croatian power grid. The plant is designed as an underground cavern facility, with its turbines and generators situated deep within the mountain to maximize natural topography. Between 2012 and 2017, a comprehensive revitalization project was carried out, replacing all four generating units to enhance efficiency and extend the plant's operational life. Water is supplied via long intake tunnels from the Peruća and Prančevići reservoirs. Beyond power generation, the system plays an important role in water regulation and flood control in the Dalmatia region.

Location: Croatia
Top sights: Church of St. Peter in Priko · Cetina · Atelier Vanja Rogošć
Nearby: Ostrvica, Omiš (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	7	10	13	18	22	25	25	21	17	13	8
Rain mm	91	89	78	65	57	51	29	41	90	88	126	116

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Croatia, harnessing the water power of the Cetina River for electricity generation. It covers a significant portion of the national electricity demand and is a key component of Croatia's energy infrastructure.

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Visiting

The plant itself is usually not open to the public, as it is critical infrastructure. However, the nearby Cetina gorges and the reservoir are well visible from hiking trails.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint over the plant and the dam wall is from the road above the Cetina canyon, near the village of Zadvarje. From the bridge over the Cetina at Omis, there is also an impressive view downstream.

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Local products

There are no products directly at the plant, but the region around the Cetina is famous for its agricultural produce such as olive oil, wine, and figs. In the surrounding villages, these products are often sold at farmers' markets.

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Active season

The plant operates year-round, with production peaking in spring due to snowmelt in the Dinaric Alps. In dry summer months, output may be reduced to regulate the water level of the Cetina.

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Nearby

A visit to the plant can be well combined with a hike through the Cetina Gorge or a rafting tour on the river. The nearby coastal town of Omis with its old town and fortress is also a worthwhile addition.

Geography

Coordinates

43.45000, 16.68700

Facts

Zakučac is the most powerful power plant in Croatia with 486 MW capacity.
The first phase of the hydroelectric plant was completed in 1961.
It produces an average of 1,450 gigawatt-hours of electricity per year.
The facility is an underground cavern type, built inside a mountain.
It utilizes water from the Cetina River basin and Peruća reservoir.
A full modernization of all four generating units was completed by 2017.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Omiš<1 km · SExplore →

📍Duće2 km · WExplore →

📍Borak2 km · SEExplore →

📍Gata2 km · NEExplore →

📍Tugare2 km · NWExplore →

📍Čisla4 km · EExplore →

📍Dugi Rat4 km · WExplore →

📍Stanići, Omiš5 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant (10)

Church of St. Peter in Priko

Church building in Croatia, religious structure in the Priko district of Omiš.

🌐 zupapriko-omis.webs.com

Cetina

Road bridge in Omiš, Croatia, crossing the Cetina river.

Atelier Vanja Rogošć

Artist studio in Omiš, workspace and exhibition space of Vanja Rogošć.

Peovica Fort🏰 castle

Castle in Croatia, historic fortress overlooking Omiš.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00

Mirabella fort

Viewpoint in Omiš, from the castle ruins you get a wide view.

Gradski muzej Omiš🏛 museum

City museum of Omiš, showcasing the history and culture of the coastal town.

Velika plaža

Large sand and pebble beach in Omiš, popular for swimming and sunbathing.

Church of St. Luke

Tomb in Omiš, church building with historic graves.

Fort "Stari grad"

Historic fortification in the old town of Omiš.

Beach Galeb

Pebble beach in Omiš, quiet swimming cove with clear water.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Which river powers the Zakučac plant?

It uses the waters of the Cetina river near Omiš.

Is Zakučac the largest hydroelectric plant in Croatia?

Yes, based on installed capacity, it is the largest power plant in the country.

Can you visit the underground halls?

Access is strictly controlled and usually reserved for professionals only.

Where exactly is the power plant located?

It is located near the mouth of the Cetina river in Omiš, Dalmatia.

What is its significance for power supply?

It covers a significant portion of Croatia's electricity needs using renewable energy.

Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant: where is it located?

Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant is located in Croatia.

Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant: what is there to see?

Highlights include Church of St. Peter in Priko, Cetina, Atelier Vanja Rogošć.

Zakučac Hydroelectric Plant: when is the best time to visit?