Stay Lifehacks

Arguably, the main feature of a visit to Hotel Mance is the excellent food on offer, so it pays to advise planning, at least, for one full dinner at the restaurant known for its authentic local fare. Ask what’s fresh — in that season; more often than not, they recommend river-trout goulash with deer or wild boar, hearty and deep in tones with freshly foraged wild forest mushrooms. Very, very real.

Arrange a river activity to get the most out of the location. Just contact the owners of the hotel and arrange a rafting or kayaking trip on the Kupa River. They have very deep local connections and they have the best and most experienced local guides in their team. This ensures that you will have a safe, fun, and memorable adventure. They can also bring the trip in tune with your level of experience; say, for your family in mild stretches or for you over some exciting whitewater sections.

While the immediate vicinity is nice, you’ll want the car to really sample the rest of the beautiful Gorski Kotar. One can’t miss stopover should be at the “Zeleni Vir” (Green Spring) and “Vražji Prolaz” ( Devil’s Passage) nature reserve, 30 minutes by car from the hotel. This beautiful reserve has a strong spring, a pretty waterfall, and a dramatic canyon that you can go right through on wooden boardwalks. It’s one of Croatia’s best-hidden natural secrets.

Finally, be prepared for a real nature getaway. The village is small and there are few services, so bring any special snacks or personal items you may require. Most importantly, bring shoes suitable for walking over rocks and riverbanks along the sometimes rocky Kupa River and water shoes for swimming there. Also, take along a strong insect repellent for the nights. Walking into a rural and sporty vacation will allow you to completely accept the incredible natural beauty and calmness of this special corner in Croatia.