12Jun
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info@excursioncroatia.com 
info@excursioncroatia.com Somewhere between the rugged beauty of Velebit mountain and the peaceful shimmer of the Adriatic Sea flows the river Zrmanja. At first glance, it may seem like just another river, but as soon as you approach – whether from the shore, a boat, or a lookout – you’ll realize you’ve entered a world of silence, purity and surreal beauty. Zrmanja is more than just water – it’s a river with soul, carved into stone by time.
Zrmanja springs near the village of Zrmanja Vrelo, close to Gračac, and winds its way through karst, canyons and lush valleys before reaching the Novigrad Sea. It lies between the regions of Lika and Dalmatia, acting as both a natural border and a connector between inland and coast for centuries.
For travelers, the easiest access point is the coastal town of Starigrad Paklenica, right at the base of the Paklenica National Park. From there, you can join a boat trip through the Zrmanja canyon – a peaceful and unforgettable way to experience the river without effort or crowds.
In its lower course, Zrmanja has carved out one of the most stunning canyons in Croatia. Towering cliffs, some up to 200 meters high, rise above the calm turquoise river, creating the sensation of sailing through a massive stone amphitheatre. The landscape continuously changes – from wide rocky terraces and Mediterranean shrubs to pine-covered slopes, waterfalls and springs emerging straight from the cliff face.
Despite the wild look of the canyon, it is home to rich flora and fauna. Along the banks you’ll find wild herbs like sage, rosemary and fig trees, while overhead birds of prey circle, and turtles or shoals of fish glide across the river’s surface. This diversity makes Zrmanja the ideal place to discover authentic Croatian nature – raw, quiet and untouched.
The Zrmanja boat tour starts in Starigrad Paklenica and usually lasts around two to three hours, depending on the weather and route. But this is no ordinary excursion – every stretch of river feels like a postcard. The boat glides silently over the calm surface, and all you hear is the sound of nature: birdsong, trickling springs and the breeze.
Guides will point out landmarks: old 19th-century watermills, springs emerging from rock, and natural pools with crystal-clear water. One of the highlights is a swimming break deep inside the canyon – the perfect place to cool off in pristine surroundings, without noise or crowds.
Fans of the classic Winnetou films may recognize parts of the canyon immediately. Zrmanja was featured in several scenes meant to depict the American Wild West. The dramatic, untouched landscape was the perfect setting for filmmakers searching for authenticity.
But even without any movie knowledge, Zrmanja has a powerful presence. This is not just a river – it’s a place you feel with your whole being.
You can find all available dates, prices and details on our website ExcursionCroatia.com. Our tours are guided by locals who know not just the route – but also the stories that flow with it.
Zrmanja may not be the most famous river in Croatia. You won’t see its name in flashy ads. But once you experience its canyon, calm waters, and the peaceful silence that surrounds you – you’ll understand why those who visit once, always return.
This isn’t just a trip. It’s an experience. This is Zrmanja.
