Our body has this defect that, the more it is provided care
and comforts, the more needs and desires it finds.
ST. TERESA OF ÁVILA
Healthy
Green
market
This green, colourful, fragrant and often loud spot in the city, is far more than just a place to buy fresh groceries or homemade products from local producers. Varaždin market (plac) was a real social network before the Internet – remaining a place to really feel the pulse and mood of the city. For many locals, a trip to the market is a daily, if not, a compulsory weekend ritual. This, along with having coffee on Stančić or Korzo Sqaure and a bite of the traditional Varaždin bread stick called klipič, is an inseparable part of the authentic experience of Varaždin. Take a stroll around Varaždin market – feel the senses and flavours of the city.
Green market
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Drava
Just a 15-minute walk away, you can experience the greenery of the Drava River. Close enough to be enjoyed by nature enthusiasts and walkers on a daily basis, yet far enough to ensure that the woods surrounding the river are preserved, protected and stay wild.
The Drava River is a dream for so many adventures such as rafting, canoeing and paddle boarding. Why not go cycling, explore a modern educational trail, or perhaps take a swim in the river or in the pools. Whatever you choose, don’t miss out on the most romantic part of it all – the unforgettable sunset!
Varaždin is not a city on a river, it is a city by the river. Although this makes it a little less romantic, the fact that the magical Drava is located outside the city centre, opens unlimited possibilities of using the river and surrounding forests for recreation and nature rambles. The closeness of the river provides a healthy departure from the indulgence of the city and its events.
SWIMMING POOLS ON THE DRAVA RIVER
On the famous “špica”, the tip of an artificial island located between the old river course and the canal of the nearby hydroelectric power plant, you can find a unique, old, but newly renovated bathing area with additional recreational facilities. But the main allure has to be that old-school feeling of swimming in a pool built in the old-fashioned way, under the canopy of trees, surrounded on two sides by the waters of the Drava River.
EDUCATIONAL AND FITNESS TRAIL
Close to the bathing area is the start of a circular, modern educational trail – taking you on a journey through the woods, providing valuable information about the river and its living world. Along the way, don’t miss the intriguing hidden “lookout”. On the east side of the main road leading to Čakovec is the Varaždin Arena, surrounded by peaceful woods with a fitness trail, intersected by disc golf courses. There are also tennis courts and you can commonly find people jogging or walking their dog along the Drava embankment. There is also an open-air stage that hosts theatre plays and concerts.
Varaždin and its surroundings are crossed by several cycling and cycle touring routes. Most of the region is relatively on flat ground and has an endless network of less busy and good macadam roads. The area has a developed cycling culture, so exploring on two-wheels is really an option to consider when putting together plans for an active weekend based in Varaždin.
Cycling
Hiking
Varaždin is located in the plain, but the southern and western edges of the region are dotted with hills and mountains. In Varaždin County, above the town of Ivanec, you can find Ivanščica, the highest mountain in continental Croatia – a true paradise for avid hikers and ramblers. For those who like things even more active – climb the nearby Ravna gora, or even the mythical Kalnik, which includes a peak with an ancient fortress, educational trail and mountain lodge.
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Hiking
Varaždin is located in the plain, but the southern and western edges of the region are dotted with hills and mountains. In Varaždin County, above the town of Ivanec, you can find Ivanščica, the highest mountain in continental Croatia – a true paradise for avid hikers and ramblers. For those who like things even more active – climb the nearby Ravna gora, or even the mythical Kalnik, which includes a peak with an ancient fortress, educational trail and mountain lodge.
Ivanščica
The highest mountain in north-western Croatia is an extremely popular hiking destination. There are several well-marked trails ranging from easy to more challenging, leading to the top, where hikers can take a break at the popular Pasarić’s mountain lodge. Beautiful stunning forests and the vicinity of Varaždin, but also the historic towns of Ivanec and Lepoglava, are just a few more reasons why you should lace up your hiking boots and climb “Iva”, a memorable experience due to its popularity and gentle slopes.
Ravna Gora
Believe it or not – you can actually climb the Alps starting from the mountain near Varaždin! Intriguingly, the mountain named Ravna gora is classed as the last branch of this mountain range. Its unquestioned popularity among recreationists lies primarily in the captivating woodland, spectacular views from the lookout point and numerous beautiful hiking trails. Another benefit is the closeness of Trakošćan Castle and there are even two mountain lodges to visit. Have a peek in the sky now and then as Ravna gora is equally a popular spot for paragliders.
