“Bož’ćevanje on the bridges of Slunj”: from a beautiful walk in nature, experiencing Rastoke, illuminated by hundreds of lights, to culinary delicacies that you will enjoy!
Foto: Vedran Božičević
1. Rastoke – a fairytale village in Slunj!
Rastoke is a play of sun and fluttering drops of clear water, an incredible change of green and blue, a settlement full of ambient houses whose architecture belongs to some old times, but they are still functional for living. Due to its exceptional historical and cultural value, Rastoke is protected as a cultural monument, and a walk through this magical place takes you through centuries-old history, along beautiful waterfalls that are a true paradise for eyes and soul.
During Advent, Rastoke is a unique fairy-tale backdrop where you will experience the power of nature, history, but also the magic of Christmas lights and the taste of sweet cakes.
Admire stunning waterfalls, immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the offer of local caterers. At the entrance to Rastoke, in a slightly more modern ‘house’, there is also the Diva pastry shop, which on December 15th organizes a gingerbread-making workshop and on December 28th a New Year’s party with a live concert and painting with wine for many lovers of home-made sweets.
2. The power of the Korana river and relaxation in the Jelvik forest!
Destination Slunj Rastoke offers a unique water experience.
Following the Korana canyon, you will pass through the Jelvik forest, only a few minutes’ walk from Rastoke. This magnificent forest offers silence, solitude and places of isolation throughout the year, and many who have passed through it cannot decide whether it is more beautiful in summer, when it offers shelter from the heat, or in winter, when it wears white clothes. For those who like to spend a day in nature, Korana river canyon is a true inspiration!
Come and dare to enjoy the sounds of nature without headphones, scenes without filters and experience Advent in a unique way – in peace and solitude.
3. Enchanting views of river canyons and historic castles!
A walk through the canyon of Korana river is a real therapy for both mind and body, while history lovers will enjoy a visit to Napoleon’s magazine, a historical building that preserves stories from past times and offers the most beautiful sunset in this area, as well as the Old town (Gradina) located in the immediate vicinity of the magazine, on the rocky elevation of the peninsula of the large bend of Slunjčica, from which there is a wonderful view of the river Slunjčica.
You can experience all of this, along with fantastic flavors, in the Ambar restaurant, which offers its guests traditional dishes from this area, combined with local recipes and modern preparation techniques. Restaurant Ambar is located next to the ruins of Napoleon’s magazine and organizes: Advent party – December 14th, Pre-Christmas party – December 21st and Farewell to the Old Year in style – December 30th. Live concerts and great beer await you with enchanting views of the river canyons!
In addition to walking, you can also experience river canyons, historic castles, picturesque villages and the lights of Christmas lights through a panoramic ride on Santa’s bus. The bus runs on December 14th, the ride is free, so make your reservation in time, contact number: +385 99735 94 11 or via email: info@slunj-rastoke.hr. Animators will take care of the good entertainment during the ride. Those who wish, can write a letter to Santa Claus before the ride and enjoy an animated movie after the ride.
4. Ej, janje moje – unique experiences of natural and cultural heritage!
5. Tradition on a plate – enjoy culinary delicacies!
The gastronomy of Slunj relies in many ways on the natural resources of this region, and the emphasis is on simplicity, but also on the richness of taste in its original form. If there is one dish that must be found on the table of a local family, then it is definitely masnica, a traditional pastry made from homemade dough, once filled with a crust, and today with cheese. Proja, a simple unleavened bread made from several types of grain, is another specialty that was the basis of many local dishes, thanks to many mills that once dominated this area.
Lamb and veal on a spit or under the grill, with their soft meat, are delicacies not to be missed, and they are often served with grilled new potatoes. These specialties, prepared in a traditional way, go perfectly with local brandies, such as plum brandy or pear brandy from local Magdić distillery, which are made here with special skill. Wines from local winemakers, such as Graševina from the nearby Obrovac winery, are indispensable accompaniments to these meat delicacies.
From field and garden to table, is the main motto in all restaurants, bistros and diners. In winter months, restaurants Ambar and Feniks are open , followed by Pino, Grand restaurant, a restaurant within Hotel Mirjana&Rastoke and bistro Kum , bistro Centar, Besttek, Hrana and Fast food Kvart. However, wherever you choose to eat, you won’t go wrong, and most importantly, you won’t go hungry or thirsty because the motto of the offer here is, first of all, the hospitality of the host, and then a generous meal.
Along with good music, on December 20th, the Christmas atmosphere will certainly be enhanced by tambura bands in restaurant Feniks and disco club Rupa.
If you want to spend the Advent season in a slightly different, calmer spirit, with no crowd, and create memories with loved ones, while the silver water is bubbling on all sides, Slunj, Rastoke and its bridges, with a view of the canyon of Korana and Slunjčica rivers, during “Bož’ćevanje on the bridges of Slunj” are as if invented for that purpose.
