Vela Draga Canyon
Vela draga
A karst gorge on the western side of Učka Nature Park, with towering limestone pillars, loop trails and viewing platforms, where birds of prey can be spotted.
Vela Draga is a geological protected area within Učka Nature Park. Freeze-thaw action during the Ice Age carved rows of towering pillars into the limestone cliffs. The gorge is home to peregrine falcons, eagle owls and other birds of prey, and it also attracts rock climbers. A short loop trail and viewing platform run along the gorge edge (about 1 hour), and you can also descend to the valley floor and follow the educational trail. From Opatija, it takes about 20–25 minutes to drive in the direction of the Učka Tunnel, and there are roadside parking spots. Admission is free. Rock surfaces are slippery, so watch your footing, and the midday summer sun is strong.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Učka Nature Park & Vojak Peak
- Lovran
- Medveja Beach
- Mošćenička Draga (Sipar Beach)
- Ičići Beach & Marina
- Mošćenice
- Lungomare Opatija
- Slatina Beach