Self-guided activities

Hiking

The forest around us has an abundance of logging hiking trails that are a hikers’ paradise. The hiking trails are different and adapted both to the experienced and recreational hikers. It is even possible to walk all the way to the coast by a shortcut over the mountain; it makes for a great, multi-day camping trip.

Close to the Ranch are caves to visit, peaks to climb, rivers to cross and spacious meadows to rest in. The possibilities are endless and our goal is to continue clearing and connecting trails in order to make them multi-purpose and increase the options for your active stay at our ranch.

Cycling

Ride a bike to the birthplace museum of Nikola Tesla (20 km /13 miles) to Smiljan, or set out on a journey and find for yourself hidden wonders of our valley – soft meadows bursting with vegetation, peaceful shady grooves as shelters from the summer sun, ruins of forsaken hamlets telling stories of past times. We offer crossroad bikes for rental to all our guests to discover trails surrounding the Ranch.

Archery

The Ranch provides an accessible and exciting opportunity to learn archery or hone your bow skills. Our guides provide extensive safety and technique instruction with less demanding longbows. Guests start by practicing on traditional bulls-eye targets while receiving personalized instruction. Once you’re hitting the mark, move through the secluded hillside range, where you’ll find an exciting archery course that will put your skills to the test. A selection of near-to-life-sized foam cutout animals is situated along a short, easy hiking trail. Walking the trail allows you to shoot at different angles and target positions to recreate an authentic wilderness bow-hunting experience.

Geocaching

Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch geocaching combines our western heritage for treasure hunting with modern-day technology. Using GPS devices and coordinates, individual guests and groups locate hidden boxes on thousands of acres of beautiful Velebit Mountain. Adults and families choose between intermediate or expert levels, allowing them to customize their search by ability and time constraints. Children search for boxes while learning about nature, history, geography and topography. “Hiking with a purpose” is a great way to become acquainted with our corner of the European wilderness. Caches can be customized for private events, like corporate retreats or family reunions. The clues lead guests toward tailored secret messages or a grand prize.

Road trips

You have an opportunity to explore the rich and diverse region that is only 1-2 hours drive from the Ranch. Here is a sample itinerary to the three world famous destinations.

Plitvice Lakes is Croatia’s most famous national park. It harbors a magnificent collection of waterfalls, lakes, forest and diversity of animal life. The lakes are renowned for their distinctive colors, ranging from azure to green, grey or blue.

Alfred Hitchcock said that Zadar has the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Zadar’s old town is a place which holds 3,000 years of rich history. Place where you can enjoy museums, churches, squares, art galleries and old city itself.

Nikola Tesla birthplace is a mere bike ride from the Ranch. Tesla was practicing yoga, meditation, visualization and was finding inspiration for his work in the Velebit Mountain. Museum with Tesla’s patents and educational tour are well worth the admittance ticket.

Swimming

Dive into the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea and refresh yourself in a new way. On a bicycle you can go to Lika River or Kruscica lake, located 10 km (6 miles) from the ranch. In one day you can visit a number of famous touristic destinations together with different and unique swimming locations where you can get your fill of water dipping and refreshment in the unique sea expanse.