At the heart of Brod na Kupi, Kaštel Zrinskih stands right beside the Kupa. The castle, dating from 1651, brings local history together with a permanent exhibition and an interpretation centre. The river offers further perspectives: a trail along the Kupa, the confluence of the Kupica and a separate mountain biking stage. This makes it possible to get to know Brod na Kupi through a wide range of interests.
Castle, Exhibition and Local History
Kaštel Zrinskih houses the permanent exhibition “Divljina s pogledom na more” (“Wilderness with a Sea View”) and the “Putovima Frankopana” Interpretation Centre. The exhibition explores the natural heritage of Gorski Kotar: its perspective extends from the Kupa Valley and the karst bedrock through forests to high mountains, sky and clouds. Interactive features include mosses and lichens, a sinkhole, a mine, simulated mountain weather and an artificial climbing wall. Encounters with live birds and snakes are also part of the exhibition.
For groups, the Prirodoslovni muzej Rijeka offers guided tours and educational workshops at its Brod na Kupi location by prior arrangement. Arrange these visits before you arrive. Another point of historical interest is the parish church of St Mary Magdalene: the Baroque church dates from 1670.
Brod na Kupi was first mentioned as Brod pri Kupi in 1481. The earlier name is associated with a ferry across the Kupa, which carried goods and passengers. This links the town’s history directly to the river, which, alongside the Kaštel, remains a defining feature of the landscape described here.
Exploring the River on Foot
Kaštel Zrinskih is in the centre of Brod na Kupi, on the banks of the Kupa, and is also checkpoint KT 34. The Brod na Kupi–Vilinski Gaj–Kupica walking trail starts here. It follows the Kupa downstream to Vilinski Gaj, at the confluence of the Kupica and the Kupa. Along the way, the route crosses a stone bridge and a suspension bridge before returning to Brod na Kupi. Its stated difficulty level is 1 out of 5.
For an additional stop when planning your walk, the route description lists the Bear Educational Trail as an optional detour. It is in the courtyard of Fran Krsto Frankopan Primary School. Brod na Kupi itself is also shaped by the rocks and gorges along the Kupa and the Kupica. The route therefore offers views not only of the river, but also of the distinctive features of the local landscape.
More Perspectives on the Kupa Valley
The MTB E4 stage offers another way to explore the surroundings. It starts in Brod na Kupi and follows the upper Kupa through the protected Kupa Valley, also known as Butterfly Valley for its rich biodiversity. The area is home to more than 100 species of butterflies active during the day. This cycling route offers a separate way to experience the landscape; it should not be confused with the walking trail through Vilinski Gaj.
Rafting on the Kupa is also listed among the activities available in the area around Brod na Kupi. Check the providers and relevant conditions in advance. When choosing a hotel, you can first consider what you want your stay to focus on: the history and exhibition at the Kaštel, the walking trail with its two bridges, or a cycling or water-based activity. These differences can help you match the character of the place to your travel plans.
Discover more destinations: Kuželj, Turke, Golik, Delnice, Crni Lug, Gašparci, Donji Okrug, Guče Selo.
For the broader travel overview: Općina Delnice.
