A while ago, when I was in my first year of University in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, I joined a Željezničar hiking club and started hiking with them. Soon after I became interested in rock climbing and applied for the rock climbing school at the Alpine Club of the Željezničar. That’s pretty much how my experience of rock climbing in Croatia started.
In the next 2 months, I spent every weekend at some of the most popular spots and mountains for rock climbing in Croatia – Paklenica National Park, Klek Mountain, Kamenjak in Istria… Not long after, I started to climb more and more and completely fell in love with this activity.
After we returned back from Zagreb and opened our adventure travel agency in Croatia, we had a guided rock climbing tours in our adventure portfolio. And we did quite a bunch of them. The people booking these tours were mostly beginners and we were the ones who opened a door to a completely new world for them. Now that I look back to these moments, I feel pride and joy, the same feeling people who were rock climbing with us felt.
This article aims to bring you the most valuable information when it comes to rock climbing in Croatia – the best places for this activity, which guided rock climbing tours to book, how long until you learn the basics and much more.
Let’s climb in Croatia!
Why Rock Climb in Croatia?
But why would you climb in Croatia? Here’s the answer to you no matter if you are an experienced rock climber or you have never tried this activity before. There are many benefits of rock climbing, both physical and mental, and it’s a great activity if you want to focus and silence your mind.
Here’s why Croatia is so famous for rock climbing in Europe:
Diverse Climbing Terrains: Coastal cliffs, inland mountains, and islands with cliffs surrounding them provide unique climbing experiences and many different ways to enjoy rock climbing (more about this later).Mild Weather: The Mediterranean climate allows for year-round climbing, although spring and autumn are the best seasons for this (unless you’re doing the deep water solo).Breathtaking Views: Many rock climbing spots in Croatia offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, islands, and historic towns (such as Omiš for example).Well-Maintained Climbing Routes: Most of the Croatia’s climbing areas are equipped with bolted routes and maintained by local climbing communities.Accessible Locations: Many climbing areas in Croatia are easily accessible from major tourist cities like Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik .
Most Famous Rock Climbing Locations in Croatia
Croatia has some of the best rock climbing sites in Europe with the most famous being Paklenica National Park. It’s a huge canyon near Zadar and it has everything you ever dreamed of. Long routes, short sport climbing routes, traditional alpine routes, everything is right there in one place. When it comes to the beginnings of rock climbing in Croatia there is always one name mentioned more frequently than others and that is Klek mountain.
When it comes to where we climb in Croatia the answer is Makarska Riviera. Biokovo mountain which stretches from Makarska to Ploče has many rock climbing routes and it’s close to us with the closest rock climbing site being in Gradac, just 10 minutes of driving away from the place where we live. We even have a guided rock climbing course there through which we introduce our guests with all wonders of rock climbing as an activity. Another place we love and recommend if you are into this activity is the climbing site in Brela, with many routes with different grades.
If you go for rock climbing in Croatia, always take all the necessary equipment with you. Never climb without a helmet and don’t overestimate your possibilities. If you are a beginner we suggest that you find an agency that has certified rock climbing instructors that will lead you safely through your first climbing route.
Let’s discuss the most famous places for rock climbing in Croatia:
1. Paklenica National Park
I spent a lot of my climbing life in Paklenica – the most famous place for rock climbing in Croatia. It’s also the national park which features a grand canyon and other many equally stunning places. Most of the rock climbing routes in Paklenica are located in this canyon part of the national park and as soon as you set your foot inside this place, you’ll see why Paklenica is so famous when it comes to rock climbing in Europe.
Location: Velebit Mountain Range, near the city of Zadar.Highlights:
One of Croatia’s most famous rock climbing destinations with over 400 bolted routes and some traditional (unbolted) ones too.
Anića Kuk, the tallest cliff in the park (350m), with a variety of challenging multi-pitch climbs.
Climbing routes in Paklenica are suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for optimal weather for rock climbing and hiking.
2. Omiš
Omiš is a city located in southern Croatia, very close to Split, the second largest and one of the most famous cities in Croatia. Omiš is often considered to be the adventure capital of Croatia and there are many other great adventure activities to try in Omiš apart from rock climbing.
Location: Near Split, in the Cetina River canyon and surrounding cliffs.Highlights:
Limestone cliffs ranging from 10m to 200m in height.
Many routes for sport climbing, multi-pitch, and traditional climbing.
Amazing views of the Adriatic Sea and Cetina Canyon while rock climbing in Omiš.
Best For: Families and climbers of all levels. There are routes with varying difficulties.
3. Marjan Hill, Split
Marjan Hill is a park forest located in Split and has some great sport and shorter routes. Perfect if you are staying in Split and want to try rock climbing.
Location: Marjan Hill, near Split city center.Highlights:
Urban climbing spot with routes overlooking the Adriatic Sea just beneath them.
Mostly sport climbing with bolted routes ranging from 5a to 8a.
Convenient if you’re staying in Split.
Best For: Regular climbers seeking a mix of urban and nature experiences.
4. Velebit Mountain
We already mentioned Paklenica National Park which is part of the Velebit mountain as the best place or rock climbing in Croatia. But the whole of Velebit Mountain is full of unique rock formations that are perfect for this activity.
Location: Northern coastal part of Croatia, as well as Lika region.Highlights:
Famous for adventurous climbs and as a great place to combine rock climbing with hiking in Croatia.
Remote and challenging routes are perfect mostly for experienced climbers.
Stunning wilderness and great panoramic views from the climbing routes.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early autumn.
5. Hvar Island
Croatian islands have some great spots for rock climbing as well, especially if you want to try the Deep Water Solo climbing technique in which you climb the steep cliffs directly from the sea, with minimal or no equipment and sea to cushion your eventual fall. We mention Hvar island in this part, but many climbing routes can be found on other islands in Croatia too.
Location: One of the most famous Croatian islands.Highlights:
Coastal cliffs suitable for beginners and intermediate climbers.
Absolutely amazing views of the Adriatic Sea below you.
Popular climbing spots include Cliffbase and Vela Stiniva.
Best For: Rock climbers looking for more remote and different climbing spots in Croatia.
6. Pula and Istria
Istria is the largest peninsula in Croatia and it’s a place of stunning nature and diversity. When I was in the rock climbing school, we had a few climbing excursions to the Istria and climbed some of the most famous rock climbing routes there.
Location: Istrian Peninsula.Highlights:
Diverse climbing spots like Limski Kanal, Kamenjak, and Vela Draga.
Routes that range from beginner-friendly to advanced grades. A bit of joy for everyone.
Most of these climbing routes are close to charming Istrian towns and wineries. Perfect as an addon to your rock climbing adventures.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn.
7. Klek Mountain
We left the ‘Cradle of Croatian Alpinism’ to be the last on this list. Another place that was one of the main locations for our climbs during the rock climbing school I finished a long time ago. Klek is one of the most mystical locations in Croatia and one of the most unique looking among Croatian mountains too.
Location: Near Ogulin, central Croatia.Highlights:
Known as the “cradle of Croatian alpinism” with some of the first climbs in Croatia being done right here.
Offers challenging routes on its stunning cliffs.
Great views of surrounding forests and valleys.
Best For: Experienced climbers and mythology lovers.
Types of Climbing in Croatia
Now that we ended with the list of the most popular destinations for rock climbing in Croatia, it’s time to talk about the types of climbing you can enjoy in Croatia. So here’s the list:
Sport Climbing: The most common type of rock climbing, with often shorter (up to 30 meters) bolted routes in areas like Paklenica and Omiš.Traditional Climbing: Available in remote areas like Velebit Mountain. Unbolted routes you must climb with special climbing equipment.Bouldering: Limited options when it comes to Croatia but slowly growing, with spots near Zagreb and in Istria. There are a few spots for bouldering in Paklenica too.Deep Water Soloing (DWS): Great way of rock climbing during the summer months, particularly popular on islands like Hvar and Vis. You climb from the cliffs rising from the sea and you fall into the sea in a case you fall at all. An then repeat. Very fun.Multi-Pitch Climbing: Longer routes can be found in Paklenica and Omiš for those seeking extended challenges and spending a day in a rock climbing route.
Best Time for Rock Climbing in Croatia
Like with every other land based adventure activity, rock climbing in Croatia is best experience if done in proper weather conditions. This is what each of the seasons brings when it comes to rock climbing:
Spring (April to June):
Perfect temperatures for rock climbing.
Less crowded than summer and great if you want to combine climbing with other adventure activities such as hiking.
Autumn (September to October):
Cool weather and again fewer visitors. Similar to spring, yet somehow different.
Summer (July to August):
Great for Deep Water Solo climbs in Croatia, but inland spots can be hot, especially during the day.
Early morning or late evening climbs are recommended if you want to cok climb during summer in Croatia.
Winter (November to March):
Might seem like a good period, but it rarely is because of the winds. Possible in southern Croatia where Bura wind is not as common as in the Velebit area (Paklenica national park).
Equipment and Safety Tips
Let’s talk about the equipment you need to have when rock climbing in Croatia. Nothing is obligatory and you can choose to climb like Alex Honnold, but we wouldn’t recommend that.
Essential Gear:
Harness, climbing shoes, belay device, and helmet.
Rope and quickdraws for sport climbing.
Crash pad for bouldering.
Safety Tips:
Check weather conditions before heading out for a rock climbing adventure.
Always inspect bolts and anchors on routes. Don’t use the ones that look suspicious.
Climb with a partner or join guided tours when in unfamiliar areas.
Stay hydrated and use sunscreen during summer climbs. You’re welcome.
Follow Leave No Trace principles whenever doing any activity in the nature of Croatia.
Guided Rock Climbing Tours and Schools in Croatia
If you are a rock climbing beginner and want to safely try and enjoy this activity in Croatia, there are guided tours you can book. Unfortunately, these types of adventure tours are not as common as some others in Croatia, but they still exist, especially in places such as Paklenica National Park.
If you book one of these tours, you will receive all the necessary equipment as well as a skilled guide to accompany you on your first climb ever. Enjoy the experience!
Here are a few recommendations for rock climbing tours in Croatia. Since there are not many of them, we included Via Ferratas in the list too.
Tips for a Memorable Climbing Experience in Croatia
Finally, we come almost to the end of this guide where we’ll share just a few tips to make your climbing adventure in Croatia even better. When rock climbing in Croatia, it’s good to:
Plan Ahead: Research climbing areas and route grades, just to know what to expect.Respect Local Rules: Each area has its unique set of rules, especially if they are classified as national and nature parks.Combine with Other Activities: Mixing rock climbing with hiking, kayaking, or exploring Croatia’s cultural sites is a great idea. Croatia has a lot to offer, enjoy it all.Explore Off-Season: Visit Croatia during the off-season to enjoy quieter experience of almost any place you visit.
How I fell in love with rock climbing (Andrea’s perspective)
Years back while I was still in the early years of studies I got introduced to rock climbing as a term. Lifestyle. Activity. It happened more or less like this:
Mario came one day and said: “I applied for rock climbing school”.
At first, I did not get what it meant so I probably just nodded. He was hiking all the time, so this was kind of normal to hear. But when his classes started and gradually he would show me some of the climbing gear and explain how it actually works – I was shocked! Who on earth would do something so dangerous? He was having his rock climbing tour of Croatia, every week he was spending time at another mountain, learning new stuff we’d eventually try together.
At first, I was convincing him that he should stop it, something so dangerous like hanging from the cliff, giving your full trust to your climbing partner. I could not understand how anyone could do it.
Of course, he did not listen to me. Actually, he managed to persuade me to go and try climbing – at least in the gym.
After thorough research about safety, I said yes. My first climbing steps were in Fothia climbing gym in Zagreb. As we entered the place, I was pretty nervous but then I saw 5-6 years old children climbing carefree so it made me calmer.
Climbing ‘top rope’ was rather a fun activity and I really enjoyed it after the first climb.
A few months forward, we were visiting indoor climbing rock and boulder a couple of times but I still did not want to go on the real rock. I was afraid. Really.
But you know how good things often happen unexpectedly. So one weekend together with our friends we went to BIH for a barbecue afternoon. Somewhere along the way, I found out that there is a rock climbing site very close to our cottage and that all the company is going to try it. In the end, I was the only one who did not want to do it, but of course, I did not want to break the party and be a coward, I took the challenge with a smile.
My first real rock climbing experience was horrible! Trust me, it was one of the craziest moments in my life: at the same time, I was very afraid that I would fall and I was crazy nervous because the route was so hard that I could not move forward at one point. So I was stuck there, in the middle of that, worst of the worst, stupid rock. I could not move forward. And oddly, I did not want to give up. Scared, but stubborn.
Tired, but still fighting. The boost of fear, anger, and adrenaline at that point was so strong, I completely forgot about everything around me. About absolutely everything, except my already painful grip, and the fact that I was sweaty like a sinner in a church – probably from a lot of stress.
Eventually, I decided to give up, the rock was for advanced climbers and I was a pre-beginner. With both feet finally on the ground, I felt so tired, physically and mentally I can not even explain it. That struggle on the rock, between my body and my mind, was, at that point the worst thing that happened at the moment. Later I realized that it was one of the best things I had the opportunity to discover.
It is one of the rare activities where you can absolutely shut your mind off. Forget about everything – unread emails, projects that are late, arguing with a family member, the list goes on. At that point, being stuck to the rock, grasping that cold rock firmly, all I would think is what is going to be my next move.
Strategic plan, think with your mind and body, making small steps forward, closer to the top. After I realized this, I tell you, rock climbing became my favorite activity. That is a time for myself, no other thoughts no other outside voices, just me, fighting with myself, training my mind and overcoming my fears.
Of course, there is your climbing buddy and this trust between climbing buddies is very important. However, I will leave this for some other story.
Before you venture into a rock climbing in Croatia
Croatia’s rock climbing scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering challenges and rewards for climbers of all levels. From the iconic cliffs of Paklenica to the tranquil crags of Hvar, the country promises unforgettable experiences surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re scaling sea-facing walls or tackling rugged mountain routes, rock climbing in Croatia is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
