Zrmanja, one of the most fascinating rivers in Croatia, is situated in northern Dalmatia and southern Lika. The source of the River is in Mountain Plješevica and it flows south towards the Adriatic sea creating 69 km of breathtaking landscape. Zrmanja River, which is a part of Velebit Nature Park, is famous for its clear emerald water, dynamic stream and unspoiled nature surrounding it.
What to see at Zrmanja river
The source of this amazing kast River is hidden at the bottom of a very steep, about 200 m high, rock called Misije. Thousands of years old stream flows beside the south border of the Croatian highest mountain Velebit, creating valleys and a 200 m deep canyon, ending in a beautiful estuary that leads to bay Novigradsko more.
Zrmanja River, which is a part of Velebit Nature Park, is famous for its clear emerald water, dynamic stream and unspoiled nature surrounding it.
The most fascinating part of the River are the canyons, therefore Zrmanja is also known as the “River of Six Canyons”. Each of them is particular and charming in its own way, but the most intact and wild nature is in the canyon between Žegar and Ogar, where narrow cliffs and additional stream of river Krupa create a wonderful waterfall Visoki buk.
Except Visoki buk, there are several waterfalls to be admired along the Zrmanja River, such as the famous Berberov buk, near Obrovac. Zrmanja River finishes in a grand way with an estuary leading to the Adriatic Sea. A mixture of sea and river water in the estuary create an important geological ecosystem.
More information about this nature’s beauty and how to plan your visit, please visit the Croatia Tourism website.
What to do at Zrmanja river
Visitors can choose from variety of activities while visiting Zrmanja River. The most relaxing way to admire the magnificent river is by guided boat tours or perhaps discovering local towns along the River. These places are quaint, quiet and will give you the perfect escape from the city rush.
For a more dynamic vacation, kayaking or packrafting trips on Zrmanja River are a great choice, while hiking along the River will give you the best view of the canyons, where some of the most famous Winnetou movie scenes were shot.
There are many well organized rafting trips available, most of these trips are family friendly, offering exciting and safe entertainment. Canoe and photo safari are another good choice for the whole family, offering guided tours in a more dynamic way than the traditional boat tour.
For a more dynamic vacation, kayaking or pack rafting trips on Zrmanja River are a great choice, while hiking along the River will give you the best view of the canyons
How to get to Zrmanja river
The biggest town along the Zrmanja River is Obrovac, located just 12 km from its estuary, while Zadar (70 km) and Šibenik (74 km) are just one-hour car drive from Zrmanja. You can get to Zrmanja river from Zadar, Šibenik or Split with organized bus tours, or with a private transfer service. There are many advantages of a private transfer service – you can book your transfer through simple online booking system and professional driver will pick you up at your location, take you to Zrmanja river and then drive you back to your accommodation.
Visitors arriving by car from the direction of Zagreb can reach the town Obrovac by taking the route E71 and exiting in Exit 15 – Maslenica to follow route D8 towards Obrovac.
