Park-šuma Jasikovac

Park-šuma Jasikovac is a protected forest park on the southeastern edge of Gospić, right next to the Žabica neighborhood. It covers roughly 86 hectares and is entirely enclosed by a 3.7-km excavated ditch, which gives it a clearly defined shape as a green enclave right at the city's border.

Where does this park-forest come from?

The forest was planted more than 270 years ago on the initiative of an Austrian general of the 1st Lika Regiment named Jasyk, which is where the name Jasikovac comes from. As early as the 19th century, it was already a favorite promenade and recreation spot for the people of Gospić, making it one of the oldest organized green spaces in this part of Lika. In the early 20th century, tennis courts were built here, and Croatia's oldest tennis club, the Gospić 1900 City Tennis Club, was founded on these very courts.

What will you see in the park?

The dominant tree species is oak, and it's precisely because of the centuries-old oak specimens that the area was granted nature protection status. Walking along the trails, visitors pass renovated footpaths, wooden pavilions, benches, and several viewpoints scattered through the woods.

In recent years Jasikovac underwent a major renovation worth around 3 million kuna. The project added:

• a visitor information center with foot-traffic counters,
• a children's playground and an outdoor fitness zone,
• an amphitheater used for open-air events,
• bird-watching towers,
• a dog training area and a bocce court,
• an artificial climbing wall,
• smart benches with device charging and free wifi hotspots,
• signage adapted for blind and visually impaired visitors,
• public lighting, installed here for the first time, so the forest can now be visited after dark too.

How do you get there?

Park-šuma Jasikovac sits within Gospić's city limits, along the road connecting the town to Divoselo, right next to the Žabica neighborhood. It's a few minutes by car or bike from the town center, and entrances to the forest open directly from the surrounding residential streets.

When should you visit?

Thanks to the new lighting and covered pavilions, the park works as a destination year-round. Spring and summer are best for walks, jogging, or a picnic under the oak canopy; autumn brings out the color of the changing leaves; and in winter the lit paths mean the forest stays usable even after sunset. It's a popular choice for families with children, cyclists, and bird watchers thanks to the observation towers.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to the park free? Yes, Park-šuma Jasikovac is an open public city area and entry is free of charge.

Can you cycle through the park? Yes, the grounds are suited to both walking and cycling, and the renovated paths make it easy to get around the whole area.

Is there anything for children? Yes, the park has a children's playground, an outdoor fitness zone, and an amphitheater that hosts open-air events.

Where does the name Jasikovac come from? The name comes from Jasyk, the Austrian general on whose initiative the forest was planted more than 270 years ago.