Pearl of Zagorje – A Magical Story in Miniature

If you are looking for an escape from the city that does not require hours of driving, but only a short journey, the destination Pearl of Zagorje stands out as one of the most interesting discoveries in Croatia’s continental tourism. Located just thirty minutes’ drive from Zagreb, this green oasis perfectly combines nature, culture, gastronomy, and activities for the whole family.

It is precisely this proximity to the capital, combined with a feeling of complete detachment from urban bustle, that makes it ideal for weekend trips as well as longer stays. Pearl of Zagorje is not a single point on the map, but a carefully designed destination that brings together three distinct yet interconnected stories—Tuhelj, Klanjec, and Veliko Trgovišće. Each has its own character, but together they create a unique experience of so-called “Green Croatia”, a region known for its gentle hills, vineyards, and relaxed way of life.

What makes this destination particularly appealing is the variety of activities suited to all generations. Families with children will find a small paradise here—from the Traditional Toys Park, which encourages creative outdoor play, to an exciting maze offering fun for both children and adults. There is also the Alley of Famous People of Zagorje, a space that celebrates local identity and notable figures in a modern, interactive way, helping visitors refine their historical knowledge while learning something new. The destination also features several “smart benches” where you can sit and immerse yourself in the past, and for those who enjoy multimedia, there is the engaging game Zagorje Stories, which can be played while exploring the destination using a smartphone.

For those seeking active holidays and spectacular views, the Eyes of Zagorje project offers a network of seven viewpoints with impressive panoramic vistas over the Zagorje hills. Each viewpoint has its own story and perspective, making exploration even more exciting. You can visit them individually during a trip or prepare properly—with a backpack—and set out to explore the entire route.

At one of these viewpoints, overlooking Veliko Trgovišće, you will find the Vila Colina wine tavern. Its owner, Dragec Bišćan, together with his team, will prepare a delicious (and very reasonably priced) Zagorje lunch or dinner upon prior arrangement, served with house wines, and will also show you around the estate.

Zagorje has always been known for good food, and hosts take particular pride in serving local specialities. That is why the experience of Pearl of Zagorje should certainly include gastronomy. At Vila Colina, for example, classic Zagorje dishes are served in a refined style—juicy poultry with mlinci, homemade trganci pasta, the traditional Zagorje soup known as ajgenmahtec, and the essential zlevanka cake with homemade plum jam. The experience is completed by wine produced by the owner himself, creating an authentic story of terroir and hospitality.

A few kilometres away, in Klanjec, another important wine story unfolds—that of the indigenous Sokol variety. This grape brings winemaking in Zagorje back to its roots, recalling a time when local vines formed the foundation of regional identity. Today, this tradition is continued by the Sever Winery, a modern family winery elevating Sokol to a new level. By combining knowledge, technology, and respect for heritage, the Sever family demonstrates that Zagorje is no longer a region of “sour wines”, but a destination of serious oenological significance.

Although each of the three locations has its own strengths, Klanjec stands out as the cultural centre of the destination. This small town with a strong identity is often called a “town of culture”, and its rich history and artistic scene make it an essential stop. A walk through Klanjec reveals layers of the past—from historic buildings to artistic traces that have shaped its identity.

One of the more intriguing historical elements are the Erdödy sarcophagi, which testify to the noble heritage and importance of the area through the centuries. They can be viewed in the Franciscan monastery, with prior arrangement through the Klanjec Cultural Centre, where curator Snježana will share the fascinating story of the family that significantly shaped the region.

A particularly important figure in Klanjec’s identity is Antun Augustinčić, one of Croatia’s most prominent sculptors. His work can be explored at the Antun Augustinčić Gallery, where some of his most significant pieces are displayed, including the monumental statue Peace—one of his most recognisable works and a powerful symbol of the humanist values that defined his oeuvre.

Although created in Klanjec, Peace is now located in New York, in front of the United Nations headquarters. The statue is not merely a monument, but a quiet message about the need for harmony, balance, and dignity. Its elegant, restrained forms and classical sculptural discipline demonstrate the artist’s ability to translate universal ideas into a simple yet powerful visual expression. Visitors can also step into the artist’s studio, where workshops and interactive programmes provide deeper insight into the creative process.

Pearl of Zagorje successfully combines what many destinations strive to achieve—a diverse offering with authenticity, accessibility, reasonable prices, and memorable experiences. Its proximity to Zagreb makes it ideal for spontaneous trips, while its rich programme ensures that every visit feels different. In a single day, you can explore viewpoints, enjoy local specialities, end your day immersed in art and history, or relax in the thermal waters of Tuhelj Spa, which will soon open a summer oasis of outdoor pools and slides. In Zagorje, you can indulge in gastronomy, taste traditional Zagorje štruklji, or try rose petal marmalade from the Pleško family farm near Klanjec—one of the destination’s distinctive gourmet souvenirs. The destination offers much to discover, and to plan your visit it is worth exploring its official website, which is preparing themed weekends this spring—Active Holidays, Selfness Weekends, and a Zagorje Fairytale for families.

Photo: Nikola Zoko