Lekenik - untouched nature and rich tradition

If you want to explore Turopolje and Pokuplje, between Zagreb and Sisak, in the beautiful plain between the Kupa River, the Odra River, and the Vukomeričke Gorice, you will be welcomed by Lekenik. It covers an area of more than 200 km² and includes 18 settlements with approximately 6,000 inhabitants. This region is easily accessible by motorway (which is free), making it the perfect destination for a quick escape from the city.

The history of Lekenik dates back to 1217, and the name originates from the word "leknin," a type of water lily that adorns wetlands. Over the centuries, Lekenik has been a significant transport and military hub, and today it is renowned for its rich history and traditions, which attract an increasing number of tourists. Those who want to experience more, waiting for a flight to a new destination (Lekenik is near Franjo Tuđman Airport), as well as locals who are increasingly attracted to Turopolje and Pokuplje.

One of the most important symbols of Turopolje and Pokuplje is its wooden chapels, which you will see while driving through this municipality. It is interesting to note that there are as many as six of them in this area, which are interesting sacral objects in many ways. Take a moment to examine the chapels, which represent exceptional examples of folk architecture and the cultural heritage of continental Croatia. In addition to them, traditional wooden houses and rural landscapes provide an authentic atmosphere that will especially delight history and nature lovers.

The tourist offer of Turopolje and Pokuplje is diverse and tailored to different needs, making it easy to choose a place where you can put down your suitcases or start exploring this destination. Modern travelers have at their disposal:

- 12 holiday homes throughout the municipality and bungalows in Stari Farkašić, ideal for families and groups seeking peace and privacy

- A four-star luxury hotel in Brežani Lekenički, located in a historic castle, offering top-notch comfort and services

- In Letovanić, there is a well-maintained beach along the Kupa River, perfect for refreshing oneself on warm summer days

- Cycling and hiking trails through the natural surroundings of Vukomeričke gorice, ideal for an active vacation and enjoying nature

- A unique attraction is truffle hunting in the surrounding forests, where you can learn all about this valuable fruit and enjoy untouched nature. A local truffle hunter will guide you through the truffle hunting, and you can try the truffles you find in the restaurant of the Dvorac Jurjevec Hotel, the bistro Turopoljska klet or the pizzeria Napoli.

In the heart of Turopolje is the Hotel Dvorac Jurjevec, a historic castle that has been converted into a luxury hotel with modern amenities. This combination of old and new makes it the perfect place to relax and explore the region. Although it is a castle, the interior is modern, and its owner, Željko Dorotić, was born and raised there. He transformed the castle into a hotel during a 13-year renovation, using only the best materials and modern furniture with a baroque 'patina'.

Today, this castle is a real oasis near Zagreb, and what delights modern travelers is that it offers everything: peace, relaxation, wonderful traditional food, and wellness. For those who want a 'green oasis for a vacation' just for themselves, there are three exclusive vacation homes not far from the castle - the very modern and functional Kuća Ana, a perfect green oasis with a large lawn for entertaining all members of a family, Kuća Natura and Kuća Tihe noći where you just need to come and put down your suitcases.

Here you will be greeted by friendly hosts with refreshments, and when you want refreshment, a wonderful river beach awaits you about fifty steps from the entrance. All houses offer privacy, superior comfort and are ideal for a family vacation or small groups who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the silence of nature.

Turopolje is a gastronomic paradise for gourmets. The Black Bull Ranch in Lekenik breeds Wagyu cattle, known for their exceptionally marbled and juicy meat, which is a real delight for meat lovers. For those who prefer traditional flavors, the Turopoljska klet offers dishes prepared according to old recipes, using local and seasonal ingredients. Here you can experience an authentic continental gastronomic experience in a warm and homely atmosphere, and one of the specialties (for which numerous gourmets from all over Croatia come) is veal under a baking sheet.

The Kaktusi Bešlić Garden Center in Žažina is the largest cactus nursery in Croatia and a real destination for lovers of exotic flora. The Lekenik Municipality is also home to the Chapel of St. Martin in Stari Brod, the oldest and most beautiful wooden chapel in the region, which was awarded the prestigious Europa Nostra award for outstanding preservation of cultural heritage.

In Letovanić, there is the Škofač Ethno Collection, which preserves more than 5,000 objects related to the life, customs and tradition of Turopolje and Pokuplje. The collection is housed in protected wooden houses and čardaks, which further emphasizes the authenticity of the place. During your visit to the Herak Family Farm, you will be welcomed by the owner Ivica Herak, who will tell you the story of the indigenous wine variety Škrlet, one of the most valued varieties in continental Croatia. When you have learned everything about this valued wine, indulge in tastings such as the one led by Marijan Dolovčak, talking about the rich wine-growing tradition of this region over a refreshing drink and a sunset in the vineyard.