Mali Lisac

Mali Lisac is a peak in the Middle Velebit range, rising above the Dabar area in Croatia's Lika region. It reaches 1,449 metres, and while its name echoes the far better-known Lisac (1,541 m) found elsewhere on Velebit, this is a separate and smaller summit. It appeals to hikers looking for a quieter alternative to the range's busier trails.

Where is Mali Lisac located?

The peak sits within the Middle Velebit massif, in an area known for its karst depressions called "dabri" — the source of the nearby settlement name Dabar. The summit's coordinates are roughly 44.939°N, 15.354°E. The surrounding landscape is a wild, sparsely populated stretch of Velebit shaped by limestone ridges, karst sinkholes, and beech-fir forest.

How do you get to the top?

Most hikers start from Kugina kuća, a mountain hut on the famous Premužić Trail, one of Velebit's best-known ridge routes. A side path branches off from there toward Mali Lisac. The first stretch climbs gently through forest; after roughly 20 minutes, the trail meets rocky outcrops, followed by a steeper forested ascent. The full climb from Kugina kuća takes about an hour in total. It isn't a technically demanding route, but it does call for reasonable fitness and sure footing on loose, stony ground — sturdy trekking boots and poles are worth bringing.

What will you see at the top?

The summit is marked by a distinctive stone marker on the right side of the path. From here, the view opens onto neighbouring Middle Velebit peaks — including Šatorina, Matijević brijeg, Laktin vrh, Debeljak, and Bačić kuk — as well as the striking rock formations of the Dabarski kukovi, one of the more recognisable landscapes in this part of the mountains. It's a classic Velebit panorama: rolling, stony ridgelines interspersed with the green of karst basins, well away from the crowds.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring and summer are the best windows, once the trails are clear and snow has melted from Velebit's higher ground. Early autumn is also a good choice, with clearer air and views stretching further toward the coast and islands. Weather on Velebit can change quickly, so whatever the season, it's worth checking the forecast and packing an extra windproof layer.

Frequently asked questions

Is Mali Lisac the same peak as the famous Lisac on Velebit? No. Mali Lisac (1,449 m) is a separate, smaller summit near Dabar, while the well-known Lisac (1,541 m) lies in a different part of the Velebit massif. The names are similar, but these are two distinct places.

How long does the climb take? From Kugina kuća, where the side trail branches off the Premužić Trail, reaching the summit of Mali Lisac takes about an hour in total.

Is the trail difficult? The path starts as a gentle forest climb, then meets rocky barriers and steeper sections. It's not suited to complete beginners without any hiking experience, but with reasonable fitness and proper footwear it's a fully manageable day hike.

What can you see from the summit? A panorama of nearby Middle Velebit peaks, including Šatorina and Bačić kuk, along with the distinctive rock towers of the Dabarski kukovi.