Hut to Hut Hiking in Croatia – A Guide to Velebit Trail

If you have a passion for mountains and enjoy multi-day hiking adventures, the famous Velebit hiking trail is sure to captivate you, leaving a lasting impression that will stay in your memory forever

Explore the charm of Hut to Hut Hiking in Croatia

Imagine walking through beautiful landscapes, admiring the views over the Croatian coast and islands, enjoying the tranquillity of the mountains, and sleeping in traditional mountain huts. Get ready for an exciting experience as we explore the charm of hut-to-hut hiking in this stunning coastal country.

Croatia has numerous mountain and hiking trails, and among them, the Velebit hiking trail, specially first part of the trail known as the Premuzic trail, stands out as one of the best.

What is Premuzic Hut to Hut Hiking Trail?

The Premuzic Trail is a well-known hiking path in Croatia. A dedicated mountaineer named Ante Premuzic built it in the 1930s using a technique called drystone, which means putting rocks together without mortar. It took four years to finish, and they used only natural materials for the construction.

Enjoy the views of the Adriatic Sea and Croatian Islands

The trail is a journey through both history and nature. Beginning in the Northern Velebit National Park, it guides you through beautiful landscapes, including forests and meadows. You’ll reach high spots offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and Croatian islands. As you go, you’ll find traditional mountain huts, perfect for resting and soaking in the surroundings.

How long is Premuzic Hiking trail?

The whole Premuzic Trail is about 52 kilometers (32 miles) long, and most hikers finish it in three to four days. The trail is well maintained and not too difficult, with gentle ups and downs. You start at around 1500 (4900f) meters and finish at 900 (2900f). It’s divided into three parts, and each day you hike for about 4-6 hours.

Stages of the Premuzic Hut to Hut Hiking Trail

On the FIRST DAY of the hike, you’ll walk from Zavizan to Alan Hut. This section of the Premuzic Hut-to-Hut trail goes through the National Park Northern Velebit, known for its impressive rock formations. Along the way, you have the option to climb Gromovaca peak at 1676 meters (5500f) to enjoy breathtaking views. The day concludes at the traditional Alan Mountain Hut. The hike covers about 15 kilometers (10 miles) and takes around 5-6 hours, depending on how many breaks you take.

On the SECOND DAY, it’s a good idea to begin early as it’s the longest day. The hike starts from the Alan Mountain Hut and finishes at the Skorpovac Mountain Shelter. This part of the hike spans 20 kilometers (13 miles) and usually takes around 6-7 hours. If you have the time and energy, there are some peaks, including Big Alan, along the way that you can explore. The second day offers the most breathtaking views, especially of the Adriatic coast and Croatian islands, making it a day when you won’t want to put your camera away.

On the THIRD DAY, you’ll have a shorter hike. The trail continues from the Skorpovac Shelter and ends in the charming village of Baske Ostarije. It’s about 14 kilometers (9 miles), and you can expect it to take around 4-5 hours. In the village, there’s a hostel where you can stay for the night. If you prefer camping, you can reserve a spot at Camp Velebit. The hostel also has a restaurant serving delicious homemade food.

Hiking all the way to Paklenica National Park

You can complete your hike here, or if you’re up for more, you can extend your trek along the Velebit mountain range, following the Velebit hiking trail all the way to Paklenica National Park. If you want to know more about the Croatia Hiking trails in Paklenica, check out this Hiking Adventure in Paklenica National Park.

Accommodation on the Premuzic trail

Accommodation options along the Premuzic Hut to Hut Trail in Croatia are limited, with strategically placed mountain huts providing basic shelter and services. It’s advisable to book these huts in advance, especially during the busy summer season and weekends.

At the Alan Mountain Hut, you’ll find dormitory-style sleeping areas with bunk beds or simple rooms with a limited number of beds. Remember, these facilities are not luxurious, so bring your sleeping bag and essentials. The Skorpovac Mountain Shelter offers only 10 shared beds, and reservations in advance are not accepted, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camping in Croatia mountains and National Parks

Camping within the National Park boundaries is not allowed for the first two days of the hike. However, camping is permitted near the Skorpovac shelter on the second night since you’re no longer in the National Park area. If you enjoy camping in the mountains, bring your tent and camping equipment with you. If you prefer not to carry all the gear on your back, consider joining our Hut-to-Hut Hiking adventure. This guided tour includes additional vehicle support, relieving you of the burden of carrying all your belongings.

What to pack for the hike? Food and water

For the 3-day hike, pack enough food as the only places to buy food are the Alan mountain hut and the restaurant in Baske Ostarije. There are no other places along the trail to purchase food. The same goes for water, you can buy water at the Alan hut, and water at the Skorpovac shelter is rainwater, so using a filter is advisable.

What else should I know?

If you’re still uncertain whether this hike is the perfect fit for you and would appreciate more information feel free to contact us and we’ll do our best to help you plan an unforgettable hiking trip in Croatia. You can read here more about our guided and self-guided Hut to Hut Hiking trip on the Premuzic trail.

When is the best time to hike the Premuzic Hut to Hut trail?

The best time to hike the Premuzic Trail is typically during the late spring to early fall months, from mid/late May to early October. During this period, the weather is generally more favorable, with milder temperatures and less chance of snow or adverse conditions.

At Go Explore Croatia, we love creating amazing experiences for people who want to explore the beautiful nature of this country. Our guided tours are perfect for all kinds of hikers, making sure you have a smooth and safe adventure through Croatia’s stunning landscapes.

Come on a special journey with us and let Croatia’s trails enchant you. Join Go Explore Croatia, and let the adventure start!