Embarking on our “Castles of Croatia” tour is akin to stepping back 500 years in time, immersing yourself in the illustrious past of Zagorje, a region replete with medieval and Renaissance fortresses, Baroque estates, and over fifty castles. These castles and structures provide profound insights into Croatia’s historic treasures, narrating tales of aristocratic past and rural traditions that are integral to understanding Croatia’s vibrant history.

Our journey commences with Trakošćan Castle, arguably the most renowned of all the castles in Croatia. Its tale dates back to a small medieval observation fortress, which over centuries evolved into a noble residence, boasting an extensive collection of weaponry and authentically preserved décor. It stands as a testament to the grandeur of Croatian history.

Certainly, Trakošćan Castle holds an esteemed place in Croatia’s history, and it’s no wonder that it’s a prime feature of our tour. Surrounded by verdant forests and overlooking a picturesque lake, Trakošćan is an emblem of Croatian heritage. Its most notable owners, the Drašković family, were renowned pioneers of photography in Croatia, a fitting accomplishment given the castle’s breath-taking surroundings and mystical atmosphere. Today, Trakošćan houses an impressive collection of weapons and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the castle’s noble times and Croatia’s rich history.

Varaždin, fondly known as ‘Little Vienna,’ is the Baroque heartland of Croatia and a major highlight of our Castles in Croatia tour. A stroll through the old town of Varaždin is like walking through the pages of a history book, with its streets lined with palaces, monuments, and villines, showcasing Croatia’s distinct architectural prowess.

Varaždin also hosts the Old Castle, an ancient feudal fort that bears witness to the region’s historical upheavals. A visit to Varaždin, coupled with a delightful lunch of local specialties, offers a unique opportunity to savour the local culture, both historical and gastronomical, in an intimate setting.

Zagorje, known as the land of castles, hills, and hardworking people, is an important part of the political and social landscape of Croatia. This region encapsulates the quintessential charm of continental Croatia, marked by rolling hills, vineyard-lined slopes, and castle-topped hillocks.

During the tour, you’ll discover the stark contrast between the picturesque sceneries of the Zagorje hills and the remarkable architectural complexes, providing unique insights into this extraordinary region’s history. Furthermore, you can expect to try some regional trademark recipes like Zagorski štrukli, a delicious cottage cheese-filled pastry dish, and taste the distinct white wines of the region, another testament to Zagorje’s rich cultural and gastronomic history.

The culinary tradition of Zagorje offers a glimpse into the region’s Austro-Hungarian influences and is an integral part of the “Castles of Croatia” tour. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of local specialties, including the famous buttery bread roll, klipić, and the traditional turkey with flatbread noodles (mlinci).

The region is also gaining recognition for its distinct white wines and ice wines, providing a perfect accompaniment to the local fare. Tasting these unique gastronomic delights, along with exploring the historical sites, allows a truly immersive experience into Croatian culture and history.