At just under seven kilometres long, Jopićeva Pećina is one of the longest caves in Croatia. Its significance, however, lies not only in its size: the area around the cave is designated for the conservation of species and habitat types, and the cave itself is protected. It is not open to the public. Jopićeva Pećina is therefore primarily of interest to nature and history enthusiasts, rather than being an ordinary show cave.
A cave as a habitat
There is an underground river on the lower level. Jopićeva Pećina and its surroundings provide a habitat for populations of four bat species: the long-fingered bat (Myotis capaccinii), the Geoffroy’s bat (Myotis emarginatus), the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum), and the lesser horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros). The area is also important for the stone crayfish. Jopićeva Pećina is also a site of historical and archaeological significance. Underground water, biodiversity, and cultural history therefore meet in this place.
A historic walking trail to Skrad
The Zmajsko-Frankopanska historical educational walking trail offers another way to get to know the area. It starts in the village of Vujaškovići in the Municipality of Krnjak and leads to the Old Frankopan Castle of Skrad on the Korana; the route is 1.3 km long. The trail opened on 21 December 2024. Along the way, walkers enjoy views of the landscapes of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The named endpoints give the walk a clear route between the village and its historic destination. Check local trail conditions before setting off.
Rivers and landscape
The Korana Canyon cuts through the hilly area of Krnjak; the Radonja also flows through the area. One of Croatia’s most important roads passes through Krnjak. The Korana and its tributaries in the Krnjak area are of interest to anglers, as the waters are noted for their abundance of fish. If you are planning a fishing trip, observe local regulations. The river landscape thus offers another perspective on Krnjak, alongside its cave, habitats, and walking trail.
Sacred sites and traces of history
The history of architecture and faith also has several facets. The Monastery of Bogorodice Trojeručice is located in Donji Budački. The complex includes the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, as well as a chapel dedicated to Bogorodica Trojeručica. The church dates from 1700, and the monastery was founded in 2007. The two dates refer to different parts of the complex: the church and the founding of the monastery.
Another chapel, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist in Krnjak, served in June 2026 as a liturgical space for services and gatherings of the faithful. Another trace of history leads to Perići: Kuća Mačešić was the seat of the SKOJ for Karlovac. Together, sacred sites and historic buildings give the Municipality of Krnjak more than one facet to explore alongside its natural attractions.
Places in the Municipality of Krnjak: Gornji Budački, Krnjak.
Discover more destinations: Municipality of Žakanje, Municipality of Generalski Stol, Municipality of Saborsko, Municipality of Ribnik, Municipality of Josipdol, Municipality of Plaški.
For the regional travel overview: Karlovac County.
