Vela Draga


The spectacular canyon of Vela Draga on the eastern side of the park is an astounding sight, its valley floor scattered with limestone pillars or ‘fairy chimneys’. Raptors, including kestrels and peregrine falcons, can be seen cruising the thermals here, and eagle owls and wallcreepers are also present. From the highway it’s a lovely 15-minute descent along an interpretive trail to a viewpoint over the canyon.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Mala Učka

3.08 MILES

This half-abandoned village at over 995m above sea level is an intriguing place. A few shepherds live here from May to October, and you can buy delicious…

2. St Jerome's Chapel

6.24 MILES

Positioned in a cemetery just outside the town walls, this little 12th-century Romanesque chapel still has the remains of its original frescoes on the…

3. Lungomare

6.98 MILES

Lined with majestic villas and ample gardens, this wonderful path (more formally known as the Franz Joseph I Promenade) is a people-watcher’s dream and…

4. Croatian Museum of Tourism

7.01 MILES

Spread between three historic buildings, this excellent museum houses a permanent collection of old photographs, postcards, brochures and posters tracing…

5. Glagolitic Alley

7.2 MILES

The road from Roč to Hum has been dubbed Glagolitic Alley in reference to a series of 11 sculptures placed alongside it, commemorating the area’s…

6. Kotli

8.19 MILES

Don't miss this almost-abandoned village, 2.5km off the road to Roč. It's set on a stream which all but dries up in summer, but at other times bubbles…

7. St George's Church

11.54 MILES

Positioned by the cliffs at the far end of the old town, this church (completed in 1611) was in the throes of a major restoration during research but it…

8. Large Well

11.55 MILES

At the centre of the old town is an ornate cistern topped with a well, built in 1789 in the rococo style. Look out for the carved lion, the symbol of…