Kula

Kula is the highest peak of the Bjelolasica massif, rising above the village of Jasenak in Croatia's Gorski Kotar region. At 1534 metres above sea level, it is also the highest point in the whole of Gorski Kotar, a region known for its dense forests and karst terrain.

Where does the massif's name come from?

Bjelolasica is a roughly 7-kilometre-long, pale and narrow rock ridge that stands out sharply against the dark forest surrounding it. In winter, once covered in snow, it gleams above the green slopes and can be spotted from a considerable distance - a feature that gave the massif its name, referring to its "light-haired" appearance. Kula marks the ridge's highest point and is the single most recognisable feature on the skyline of southern Gorski Kotar.

What can you see from the summit?

The view from Kula ranks among the widest in this part of Croatia. On a clear day it takes in the Velebit range, Lička Plješivica and Učka, while towards the coast the Kvarner Bay opens up together with the islands of Krk, Cres and Lošinj. On especially clear days, the outline of the Alps is even visible on the horizon. It is this sweep of scenery that keeps drawing hikers despite the demanding climb.

How do you get to the top?

Most hikers start from around the village of Jasenak, which sits in a karst polje at over 600 metres, within the municipality of Ogulin in Karlovac County. Trails up Bjelolasica also begin near the Croatian Olympic Centre Bjelolasica, a sports facility at the foot of the massif used by national ski and biathlon teams. Along the way, at roughly 1160 metres, the Jakov Mihelčić mountain shelter offers a resting point and orientation marker before the final stretch to the summit.

What is the landscape like around Jasenak?

Jasenak sits in a classic karst setting - a flat, fertile polje broken up by sinkholes, where surface water can vanish underground only to resurface kilometres away. The village borders the Bjelolasica ridge directly to the north-east, making it a natural base for anyone looking to experience both the karst valley floor and the high mountain ridge rising just above it.

When is the best time to visit?

Conditions for climbing Kula are most favourable from late spring through early autumn, when the trail is free of snow and the views towards Kvarner and its islands are at their clearest. In winter, the Bjelolasica massif turns into a ski and biathlon training area linked to the nearby Olympic centre, though reaching the actual summit at that time calls for experience with snow conditions and proper preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high is the Kula summit? Kula stands at 1534 metres above sea level and is the highest point of both the Bjelolasica massif and Gorski Kotar as a whole.

Where is the best starting point for the climb? Most hikers set out from around the village of Jasenak or from the area near the Croatian Olympic Centre Bjelolasica at the foot of the massif.

What can be seen from the top? On clear days you can see Velebit, Učka, Kvarner Bay with the islands of Krk, Cres and Lošinj, and occasionally even the outline of the Alps.

Is there a place to rest along the way? Yes, the Jakov Mihelčić mountain shelter sits at around 1160 metres on the approach.