In the Kamenjak forest, the pedunculate oak Galženjak stands along the historic “Kamenjak” educational trail and is a protected natural monument. The trail is 1,200 meters long and has an elevation difference of 87 meters. Rest areas and information boards about local trees, plants, and animal species complement the trail. This brings an individual natural monument together with a broader view of the local natural environment.
Kapelščak: Trail and Remembrance
The “Kapelščak” educational and recreation trail begins in Maksimilijan Vrhovac Park and climbs towards the viewpoint and the Chapel of Saint Catherine. At two kilometers, it is 800 meters longer than Kamenjak; at a leisurely walking pace, it takes about 45 minutes. This is an estimate, as pace and current conditions affect walking time. The trail has information boards, environmental messages, wooden benches, and waste bins. Check their condition on site.
The Chapel of Saint Catherine was built and consecrated in 1814 and is considered a rare example of early Classicism. A memorial plaque beside it commemorates the final battle of the 1573 peasant revolt. The grounds of the Parish Church of Saint Catherine also include the Betlehemska spilja, a permanent exhibition of nativity scenes and the tomb of Christ. It is the work of sculptor Izidor Popijač Bednjanski.
Hiking Trails Towards Medvednica
For a longer hike, trails 38 and 39 offer different routes. Trail 38 leads from Stubičke Toplice to main hiking trail 1 on the Medvednica ridge. Trail 39 runs from the Zagorje side, from Stubičke Toplice via Pila to Medvednica’s summit, Sljeme, and has two access points. The full walk to Sljeme takes about four hours. Actual walking time depends on pace and conditions; check current trail conditions before setting out.
Steps, Springs, and Regional Traditions
The Horvatove stube consist of 500 stone steps built by Vladimir Horvat with his own hands between 1946 and 1953. At the top, a yew tree is protected as a natural monument; it is considered one of the oldest specimens of its kind in Croatia. Here, a man-made structure and a protected tree stand side by side. Stubičke Toplice’s four mineral springs also contribute to the natural heritage: they are hyperthermal and reach temperatures of up to 69.7 °C.
The “Gljivarenje v Stubakima” event adds a gastronomic dimension, promoting the gastronomic tradition of Zagorje. Together with the hiking trails, natural monuments, and structures, it offers a varied perspective on nature, history, and regional culture.
More Insights into Krapinsko-Zagorska
The wider Krapinsko-Zagorska destination offers further regional cultural experiences. The Krapina Neanderthal Museum organizes its permanent exhibition into 18 thematic sections. The Staro Selo Kumrovec open-air museum presents an authentic picture of a Zagorje village from the beginning of the 20th century and comprises around 40 restored buildings of traditional construction. The two museums offer different perspectives: a thematically organized permanent exhibition and a village ensemble featuring traditional architecture.
Discover more destinations: Stubičke Toplice, Strmec Stubički, Municipality of Zlatar, Municipality of Krapina, Municipality of Oroslavje, Municipality of Bedekovčina, Municipality of Kumrovec, Municipality of Tuhelj.
View the wider travel overview: Krapinsko-Zagorska.
