Destinations
Velebit Mountains
Welcome to one of the most important wilderness areas in the Balkans; home to two national parks, a biosphere reserve and several beautiful ancient forests.
With deep gorges, ancient grasslands and rugged cliffs that provide a shelter for species such as Chamois, Wolf, Lynx, Ural Owl and many others. These wild landscapes are crossed by only a few roads, used just by forest managers and a few enthusiastic hikers; but thanks to special vehicles, we can reach extremely remote areas, small mountain gorges or clearings where our hides have been built. These structures blend seamlessly into the environment and provide a prime shooting location in these forests inhabited by brown bears.
Explore the Velebit Mountains, where to immerse yourself in the untamed Mediterranean wilderness.
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Velebit is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting an array of raptors like the Golden Eagle, Western Marsh Harrier, Common Buzzard, Northern Goshawk, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, and Peregrine Falcon.
Nocturnal species, including the Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Barn Owl, Tawny Owl, Ural Owl, and Little Owl, emerge after dark. Woodpeckers such as the Black Woodpecker, White-backed Woodpecker, European Green Woodpecker, and Eurasian Wryneck drum on gnarled tree trunks. Rocky outcrops host performers like the Rock Thrush, Ring Ouzel, Blue Rock Thrush, Western Black-eared Wheatear, Western Rock Nuthatch, and Rock Bunting.
Velebit’s ecosystems house a variety of avian life, including passerines like the Sombre Tit, Collared Flycatcher, Western Subalpine Warbler, Western Orphean Warbler, Barred Warbler, Spotted Nutcracker, and Black-headed Bunting. The wilderness also provides sanctuary for iconic carnivores such as the Brown Bear, Eurasian Lynx, and Grey Wolf. The European Wildcat, European Badger, Golden Jackal, and Red Fox call this place home, while Chamois navigate craggy heights, and valley floors are frequented by deer, Wild Boar, and Roe Deer. The park’s caves host a diverse bat population.
Specially designed photo hides offer a safe and privileged view of the Brown Bear, making this wilderness an enchanting destination for nature enthusiasts.
Highlights & Key Facts
Lush deciduous and coniferous forests cloak the lower elevations, while alpine meadows and rocky plateaus grace the tops. Unique karst formations, including caves and underground rivers, characterize the region, providing refuge for specialized species. Numerous rivers and streams intersect the mountains, nurturing aquatic life. Mediterranean scrub and grasslands thrive in sunlit slopes, while rugged cliffs and deep canyons offer niches for cliff-nesting birds.
This remarkable diversity fosters a wealth of plant and animal species, making it a special place for photographers, biodiversity enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Geographic size
Abundant Birdlife
Velebit Mountains are home to a significant number of bird species, estimated at over 200 in the region. The diversity of bird species adds to the richness of this wilderness and makes it a haven for birdwatchers and ornithology enthusiasts.
Diverse Mammals
The Velebit Mountains in Croatia host a diverse range of mammals. There are approximately 60 mammal species found in the broader region. from the elusive European Lynx and Grey Wolf to smaller creatures like bats and rodents.
Year Round Wonder
Velebit is a magical place all year long for photographers seeking a prime quality setting and emotions.
Accessible Locations
You can access this natural wonderland through nearby airports, including Zadar (1h) and Zagreb (2h).
Habitats
Montane & Alpine Ecosystems
Velebit's high elevations boast alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and harsh climates. Specialized flora and fauna, including cold-adapted species, thrive here amid unique karst landscapes with limestone formations, caves, and sinkholes. This includes the endemic Balkan Snow Vole and various bats in underground caverns.
Deciduous & Coniferous Forests
The Mountains are adorned with diverse forest types. Beech and fir forests dominate lower elevations, while coniferous forests of spruce and pine can be found at higher altitudes. These forests are essential habitats for a wide array of wildlife, including deer, boar, and various bird species.
Riverine Ecosystems
Numerous rivers and streams crisscross the Velebit region, contributing to its rich aquatic biodiversity. These water bodies host a variety of fish species and provide essential habitats for amphibians and other aquatic life.
Mediterranean Scrub & Grasslands
In lower elevations and on sunlit slopes, Mediterranean shrublands, garrigue, cultivated plains and grasslands thrive. These areas support a diversity of plant species, including aromatic herbs, and provide habitat for various reptiles, insects, and bird species adapted to this warm and dry environment.
Adriatic Coast & Islands
This habitat features coastal vegetation, pristine beaches, and clear waters, serving as a haven for terrestrial and marine life. The islands are vital seabird nesting grounds, while coastal areas support diverse flora and fauna, creating an ecological transition zone.
Wildlife
Brown Bear
The mighty bear, ruler of the Velebit Mountains, roams these ancient peaks, symbolizing the wilderness and strength of this rugged landscape.
Wolf
The symbol of both mystery and resilience, weaves its story through the untamed valleys and forests of the Velebit Mountains.
Eurasian Lynx
The ghost of the Velebit wilderness, stalks the shadowy realms of this mountain range, adding an air of mystique.
Golden Jackal
A newcomer to the Velebit Mountains, brings a touch of the exotic to these ancient lands, adapting to new horizons.
Red Deer
This majestic inhabitant of Velebit, commands the forests and meadows, embodying the grandeur of the wilderness.
White-Backed Woodpecker
With its distinctive appearance and rhythmic drumming, brings life and melody to the Velebit forests.
Black Woodpecker
Master of its craft, chisels its presence into the ancient trees of the Velebit Mountains.
Ural Owl
A night-dwelling sentinel, adds an air of mysticism to the moonlit nights of Velebit.
Wildcat
Stealthy and enigmatic presence, plays its part in the intricate tapestry of life in the Velebit Mountains.
Climate & Seasons
Winter Season: During the winter months, temperatures in the Velebit Mountains typically range from -20°C to 5°C (-4°F to 41°F).
Summer Season: in the summer, temperatures usually range from 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F).
It's important to note that temperatures can vary depending on the specific location and elevation within the Velebit Mountains. Higher altitudes, especially in alpine and subalpine zones, tend to be cooler, even during the summer months.
Additionally, weather conditions can change rapidly in mountainous regions, so it's advisable to check local forecasts and be prepared for potential temperature fluctuations when visiting the Velebit Mountains.
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