1. Where is Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch located?
The Ranch is located 23 kilometers from town of Gospic, in Velebit Nature Park, in a region a known as Lika. We are off the beaten path in the southern region of the country approximately half-way between Zagreb and Split and close to Plitvice Lakes, Paklenica, Krka and Northern Velebit National Parks. We are at an elevation of 700 meters or 2,200 feet. Our GPS coordinates are: 44.650361, 15.159452.
2. What are the environment and the landscape of the Ranch like?
The Ranch property is comprised of mountains, soft hills, meadows, pastures, forest, mountain-fed creeks and gravel roads or forest paths. It is a part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Velebit Nature Park, as well as Natura 2000 area, placing it in an environmentally sensitive area. Nestled at the base of the Velebit Mountain, our 50 acres of ranch land also encompass a mile of frontage along Ricina River, a protected fishery that flows into the Kruscica Lake. To the far west and south, soft rolling hills give way to snow-capped peaks of the Velebit Mountains. Northward and eastward deciduous trees stretch along the valley floor following the river coming deep from the Mountain.
3. How do I get to the ranch?
By air:
The most convenient commercial airport with the best flight availability is Zagreb International Airport (ZAG), a short 2-hour drive to the Ranch. Other commercial airports within reasonable distance include:
- Zadar Airport (ZAD): 1.25 hour drive
- Zagreb Airport (ZAG): 2.5 hour drive
- Split Airport (SPU): 2 hour drive
- Rijeka Airport (RJK): 2.5 hour drive
During our summer season, low-cost carriers such as Ryan Air and German Wings add direct flights from major European cities to Split, Zadar and Rijeka.
If you are traveling by private aircraft, you have the option of traveling in and out of the following airstrips, in addition to the above-mentioned airports:
- Otocac Airport (LDRO): 45 – minute drive
- Grobnik Airfield (LDRG): 90 – minute drive
Helicopter travel between the Ranch property and regional locations can be arranged through the Ranch’s transportation partners.
By car:
To reach us by car from east, north and south, take A-1 (a major highway that runs north-south) and take Gospic exit. At the bottom of the ramp take left toward Gospic and follow signs to Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch. We are located 23 km from the center of Gospic. In Klanac, take right toward Donje Pazariste. Drive 10 km. Drive thru Donje Pazariste. You will pass a brewery on your right. Continue for another 3 km. Turn left when you see our sign. Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch is 0.5 km on your left.
If you are coming from the Adriatic magistral road (Jadranska Magistrala, E65), take the exit for Stirovaca (from June thru October as you can be snowed in at other times). The drive is 53 km long. Go thru Stirovaca and Bakovac. We are located 5 km from Bakovac village. Turn right to Velika Plana and follow the road for 0.5 km. We are on the left. It is nearly impossible to miss us.
Valet Parking
Guests who drive to the Ranch on their own will be provided with complimentary vehicle valet service upon arrival and departure. Guest vehicles will be kept in a parking area close to the Barn.
By public transport:
If you are using public transportation, nearest town is Gospic, 23 km away. It has train and bus services to Zagreb and Split (several departures and arrivals daily). Zadar and Rijeka are served by bus lines. From there, you can arrange our car and driver pick up service.
4. Are you open year-around?
We are open year round. Ranch reservation system accepts bookings from May 1th thru Sept 30th 2019. For bookings outside this timeframe please send us an email inquiry at info@lindenretreat.com.
5. What is the average lenght of stay at Linden Tree?
We encourage guests to stay at Linden Tree for a minimum of five to seven nights in order to take advantage of all the activities and dining experiences the Ranch has to offer. Staying a full week ensures that you will be able to participate in all of these activities. Please peruse our weekly schedule to get an idea of the activities and dining options you can expect to enjoy at different times throughout the year.
6. What weather should I expect at the ranch?
Located at 700 meters or 2,200 feet, the Ranch is located in a mountain climate zone. Warm months are from late April to end of October. During warm months daily temperature ranges between 15-30 C (59-86 F) and overnight lows between 0-15 C (32-50 F). During cold months daily temperature hovers around 0 C (32 F) and drops well below 0 C (32 F) during the night. We recommend that you dress in layers of “moisture wicking” clothing. This way you can always add or remove a layer depending on the changes in weather. Pack as light as possible, using a duffle type bag is best.
Spring
April – H: 16° | L: -5°
May – H: 20° | L: 0°
June – H: 25° | L: 10°
Summer
July – H: 30° | L: 18°
Aug – H: 26° | L: 12°
Autumn
Sept – H: 24° | L: 5°
Oct – H: 22° | L: 2°
Nov – H: 20° | L: -5°
Winter
Dec – H: 10° | L: -10°
Jan – H: 7° | L: -20°
Feb – H: 10° | L: -25°
Mar – H: 16° | L: -8°
7. What should I pack and what is the dress code?
The Ranch does not have a formal dress code, but most guests dress Western casual. Attire is relaxed and comfortable, even at dinner. For activities, we recommend dressing in layers. Riding and hiking boots and rain slickers are available in limited sizes on-site, as is all gear necessary to participate in all Ranch activities. Listed below are the items that we feel you should bring for a safe and comfortable vacation.
- jeans or riding pants
- convertible pants/shorts
- shorts (mainly for July/August)
- moisture-wicking shirts (long and short sleeves)
- fleece or sweater (for warmth)
- Gore-tex jacket for wind/rain
- workout or yoga wear if you plan to use our yoga studio
- underwear (you may want to consider lightweight long underwear for an early or late season)
- socks
- toque (warm hat)
- bandana or lightweight scarf –available for purchase at the ranch
- brimmed hat (protects from rain, sun and low branches) –available for purchase at the ranch
- riding gloves
- heeled, ankle-high, water-repellent boots
- comfortable camp shoes
- chaps (if available)
- beach towel and swimsuit
- camera
- sunscreen
- sunglasses
- water bottle
8. Do you offer laundry services?
Yes. Laundry services are available in the event of a spill or slide. Surcharge applies.
9. Will I have cellular phone service?
By design the Ranch is far removed from the stresses found in urban life. While you will not find in-room telephones or television, your mobile phones will work here and we offer complimentary use of our geo-stationary satellite Internet connection. If guests need to be reached while they are at the Ranch, callers may contact them via our Front Desk team at +385-95-685-6166.
10. Is there an internet service around the ranch?
Yes, wireless Internet service (Wi-Fi) is available in all accommodations and common areas via our geo-stationary satellite Internet connection.
11. In what time zone is the Ranch located?
The Ranch is located in the Central European Time Zone. Thus, when it is noon at the Ranch, it is 6:00 am in New York City, 11 am in London and 3 pm in Dubai.
12. What is the difference between the Ranch and a dude ranch vacation?
Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch is inspired by dude ranch vacations that allowed people to experience an authentic cowboy life in the West. However, instead of simply offering opportunities typical of dude ranches in American West, we strive to offer an authentic view of both historic and modern pursuits while providing luxury travel amenities, world-class cuisine, a full-service and private and nature conservation driven adventures. At Linden Tree you are not a spectator, you are actively participating in nature conservation, community development and cultural exchanges. If you are particularly interested in some of our programs, please advise our reservation team member of your affinities so we may suggest the best time for your visit as not all programs run year round.
Our authentic homestead is located on ranch land that is also home to wolf, bear, deer and lynx, and it offers both views and access to Croatia’s National Forest and Wilderness areas. Our activities program has extensive equestrian opportunities, from riding classes up to week-long trail riding. Recreation on our guest ranch also includes dozens of other year-round activities, such as hiking, caving, canoeing, mountain biking, archery, and off-ranch activities like zip lines, all-terrain vehicle adventures and kayaking. With guides and gear always provided, being a versatile luxury guest ranch allows us to appeal to travelers of all ages with varying interests and levels of expertise.
13. How is the Ranch different from other guest ranches in the world?
Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch is honored to be named one of the Top 10 luxury campsites in Europe by the prestigious DK Eyewitness Travel. In 2013, the Ranch became Rewilding Europe partner—a designation held by no other ranch in Europe.
Unlike other ranches or luxury resorts, Linden Tree is truly all-inclusive. You are invited to make the Ranch your home away from home by enjoying three gourmet meals a day, premium wine, beer and spirits and guided hiking, horseback riding and all of the other outdoor activities. Visit our All-Inclusive page to see all we offer.
Our exceptional amenities, staff and service differentiate the Ranch from other properties in many ways. These are some of the advantages and attributes of Linden Tree, which are highlighted by our guests, global travel industry partners, the media and experiential travel and lifestyle bloggers:
- Named one of the Top 10 luxury campsites in Europe by the prestigious DK Eyewitness Travel
- Small and intimate in size, with the maximum capacity of 36 guests.
- Knowledgeable, friendly staff that anticipates guest needs
- Designed for authenticity and comfort
- Homesteaded ranch with historical buildings
- Remote location inside UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on protected land, with no highway noise
- Children are always welcome and offered daily engaging activities
- Full-service
- Outdoor heated pool and traditional wood-fired hot tub
- No vehicle needed on the property. All accommodations are within walking distance of common areas
- The main area for gathering with outdoor dining area, full bar, woodstove and frontier decor
- Studio evening entertainment including live music, storytelling, karaoke and a private movie theatre
- Located near the award-winning brewery, ghost town and Tesla’s birthplace
- Located in between four Croatian National Parks: Plitvice, Paklenica, Northern Velebit and Krka National Parks
14. How big is Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch?
Our maximum occupancy is 20 guests. This includes the use of each of our 8 accommodation units: en-suites, river tents, two luxury casitas and historic Buffalo lodge. The Ranch is 70 acres in size.
15. How do guests get around the property?
Walking and biking are the most common ways to get around the property, as we prefer to keep traffic to a minimum to allow for a serene and safe environment.
16. Does the Ranch allow pets?
Yes, Linden Tree is pet-friendly. Well-mannered, people-friendly dogs will enjoy the endless trails, dips in the river and fresh mountain air. Pet rate applies. We will ensure accommodations are equipped with pet bowls, plastic bags for clean-up and a comfortable place to rest sleepy heads. Leashes may be encouraged in outdoor common areas. Please be aware of wildlife when bringing pets to the Ranch. Pet care services are available. Hourly rate applies. Pets cannot participate in some of the activities. Most notably, for safety reasons, dogs cannot be taken on horseback rides.
17. Does the Ranch welcome children and families?
Absolutely. The Ranch has no age restriction and welcomes guests of all ages, including children. Linden Tree Ranch is an exciting Western adventure for the whole family.
18. What activities are available for kids?
Our staff aims to make sure that each young guest has a truly memorable and safe experience at Linden Tree. Families with children of multiple ages with different interests are able to keep everyone happy with our diverse activity program. Most of our activities are available to children with adult supervision, on a case-by-case-basis. Daily programs feature activities such as wildlife viewing, arts and crafts projects, early settlers and history, nature conservation, gold-panning, discovering aquatic life, geocaching, cowboy games, guided hikes and bike rides, pony rides, and story time. Children are supervised by experienced counselors.
19. What baby amenities do you offer?
We have car seats, highchairs and cribs available for guest use. We do not provide strollers or hiking carriers. We encourage guests to inform our reservations staff about any infant and toddler needs to ensure the appropriate equipment is ready upon your arrival. Babysitting is available for infants and toddlers under four. Fee applies. Arrangements must be made no less than 24 hours in advance.
20. What type of dining experience do you offer?
Our Executive Chef Megi is celebrated for creating unique Linden Tree cuisine. At the Ranch, she focuses on real food from local producers offering organic and sustainable meats and produce. The Ranch features several different menus and dining experiences that mirror Mediterranean seasonal bounty. Guests enjoy dining in the Saloon dining room, whether indoor or outdoor, depending on the season. Private al fresco dining is available as well as secret bush dinners. These are highly sought after with romantic couples, honeymooners or as birthday surprises. Arrangements must be made no less than 48 hours in advance. A children’s menu is always available.
21. What kinds of wildlife do you have on the property?
The Ranch is home to an array of wildlife, including wolf, bear, deer, ibex, fox, coyote, a variety of eagles and an array of birds. Velebit Mountain is one of the last places in Croatia to have more animals than people. The Ranch offers special vacations for wildlife enthusiasts in spring and fall, during seasonal migrations.
22. What is the horseback riding program like at Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch?
Linden Tree specializes in riding programs for non-riders and first-time riders. Therefore no prior riding experience needed for any of our rides. Upon arrival, you may head to the barn to meet our wranglers, as well as our horses. Whether it’s your first time on horseback or you’re a seasoned rider, we have a horse for every skill level. Linden Tree Ranch experience is built in the spirit of play, where travelers immerse themselves in the riding culture of Western Horsemanship, rather than seeing it through the slats on a corral. Our equestrian program includes two-hour trail rides, day rides, multi-day rides, lessons and games. The Ranch also offers wagon rides. Occasionally, we offer special horsemanship clinics to avid riders.
The minimum age for day-long horseback riding trips is 13 years. Anyone under 18 should be a regular and enthusiastic rider, have a keen sense of adventure and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on all rides. We have had people in their 70’s on trips, but again, they were fit, in good health and rode regularly prior to their holiday. We ask that you judge yourself (and your children) honestly in this regard, as we will take your word for it and plan the trip accordingly. It is important that you feel fit and healthy before going on the trail. The maximum weight for riders is 100 kgs (220 lbs). Exceptions may be made for very experienced/athletic riders.
23. What is the drinking age in Croatia?
The drinking age is 18 and older for all guests
24. Can I preship my luggage to the Ranch?
Yes. Guests may pre-ship luggage to Linden Tree by addressing it to the following address: C/o Guest Name, Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch, Attn: Reservations, Velika Plana 5, Velika Plana, 53213, Croatia. Please notify our Reservations team that you are pre-shipping so that we may have your luggage placed in the appropriate accommodation prior to your arrival.
25. Do you provide complementary medicine amenities to guests?
No. The law does not allow the Ranch to give out complimentary medicine to our guests. We do, however, have a complimentary limited supply of non-prescription medication and first aid items available at the Reception. The nearest hospital is County Hospital located 25 minutes away in Gospic. In addition, many of our employees are CPR/First Aid certified, including one who is registered Health and Safety Specialist.
26. Do you have an on-site gift shop?
Plans are underway to open an, on-site Mercantile Store that will feature an array of high-end, Western-style apparel, footwear, jewelry, accessories and gifts.
27. How do I learn about employment at the Ranch?
Our
Careers page contains detailed information about full-time and seasonal positions and a link to our application form.
28. Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend to every traveler to purchase travel insurance prior to their arrival to the ranch as most travel insurance policies cover emergency situations due to various reasons thereby enabling insured person to recover full or partial amount of a medical cost should they need medical attention. This also ensures fully refundable changes to your reservation outside of our cancellation policies. TravelEx is recommended for its flexibility and programs. Their TravelMax option allows upgrades for ultimate protection.
29. Is deposit needed to secure my reservation?
A 50% deposit of the base cost is required to confirm your reservation. Your reservation is confirmed upon receiving the deposit. For final payment, while present at the ranch, we accept cash, Visa, Master Card or Diners.
30. What is your sales policy?
- Prepayment of 50% required for booking.
- Check-in time is after 15:00 on arrival day
- Check-out time is before 11:00 on departure day
- Late check-out may result in extra charge
- The final accounts settlement is due at check-out
- The prices stated are an approximation only. The final amount depends on the exchange rate at the check out date.
- Should you wish to cancel or modify an existing reservation, please contact our reservation office
- The Ranch reserves the right to reject, cancel or modify reservation where it appears that the reservation contains or has resulted from a mistake or error.
31. What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation notification must occur at least 61 days prior to your arrival date to receive a refund. A 20% fee of your total reservation amount will be non-refundable. Cancellation notifications occurring less than 60 days prior to arrival are not eligible for a refund. Reservation reductions such as party size or duration will not receive rate adjustments prior to 60 days of arrival. A 10% service charge of the total reservation will be charged for any date change made within 60 days of arrival.
32. Are there some kind of terms of service I can read?
The Terms of Service are available for review
here.
33. Do you charge for altering activity schedule?
Accommodating our guests’ preferences and desires is our top priority. While we do not have cancellation fees, we strongly encourage pre-booking and addressing any changes to activity scheduling in advance. This ensures we can provide you with plenty of opportunities for adventures.
34. Is smoking allowed at the ranch?
As much as our cowboys enjoy having a smoke here and there, some even carry a pipe, smoking is not allowed in any of the indoor spaces. If you smoke, you can ask for an ashtray to be placed outside your accommodation unit.
35. Which currency will I pay my invoice in?
All prices on our web site noted in euros are for your convenience. Actual payments will be effected in Croatian currency, kuna. When charging your credit card, the same amount is converted into your local currency according to the exchange rate of credit card associations. As a result of this conversion, there is a possibility of a slight difference from the original price stated on our website.
36. Do you have car service at the Ranch?
Linden Tree car and driver service is available to and from any destination inside Croatia. Charge of 1 € / km applies.
37. Do you accept damaged banknotes?
Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch does not accept damaged banknotes: missing piece, crumpled, colored, written on unrecognizable, etc. If you have such banknotes, please visit Croatian National Bank or FINA service and they will issue you a replacement banknote.
38. Subject to change
Itinerary and the duration of the activities are subject to change due to group abilities and preferences, weather conditions and forecasts, snow and water levels, special events or interest, etc. Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch guides and trip leaders will do their utmost to ensure the best possible experience for their clients without compromising safety at any time. This may mean changing the original itinerary to avoid discomfort or risk which could be caused by exceptional situations. Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch reserves the right to alter the itinerary without prior notice.
