We tend to be particularly sensitive to the absence of the most important chemical compound in the world – water. Finding a place with abundant clean spring water in the karst becomes a real treasure hunt. That is why people from Gorski kotar are very aware of the importance of the River Kupa source. It is the largest karst wellspring and the river itself is one of the longest in Croatia.
Back in 1963, people declared it a hydrological natural monument. From 1997 it takes part of the Risnjak National Park. It is located 321 m above sea level and its depth has not yet been fully explored. The deepest record is 154 m. Impressive don’t you think?
The River Kupa source in Dragutin Hirc’s itinerary
Croatian most famous travel writer from the 19th century, scientist Dragutin Hirc wrote about the River Kupa source in his book about traveling through Gorski kotar. He mentioned that the Ancient Romans called the river Colapis. Although the river was well known back then, the source was kind of a mystery and all that was written was that it was located somewhere between the villages of Hrib and Razloge.
We filmed the path from the River Kupa source to the village of Hrib with a drone few months ago. There are just 2,7 km of aerial distance. Without a drone, the shortest way to come to the source is by driving along a 6 km long asphalt road to the village of Kupari. There is an easy and restorative walking path that leads you from there to the source.
The emerald jewel of Gorski kotar
An intense emerald green colour radiates from the wellspring. It never loses its charm. The seasons changing make it look even more intense. High rocky cliffs embrace it, as if nature itself tried to preserve it as the most beautiful jewel of Gorski kotar.
In conclusion, one of the most fascinating facts about this source is that it is connected through underground channels to the largest Slovenian lake – Lake Cerknica.