Lupoglav Municipality: Paths between Učka and Ćićarija

Lupoglav Municipality reveals different sides of the Istrian landscape: the Učka and Ćićarija mountain ranges, the flysch region of Siva Istra and the landscape known as Bijela Istra. The municipality’s visitor attractions also include Učka Nature Park, Boljun and the Boljunsko polje. Hiking trails, viewpoints and historic sites offer practical points of reference for planning your trip.

Landscape between Učka and Ćićarija

The municipality encompasses the Bijela Istra landscape with the Učka and Ćićarija mountain ranges, as well as the flysch region of Siva Istra. Boljunsko polje (HR2001215) is considered an area important for the conservation of species and habitat types. The settlement of Brest pod Učkom lies entirely within Učka Nature Park, at an elevation of 708 metres above sea level. It is situated on a fertile field on the Ćićarija plateau.

The trails offer different distances and levels of difficulty for experiencing the surrounding area. The Lupogliano–Mahrenfels Trail is a 12-kilometre circular route that starts in Lupoglav, passes through Semić and Kras, and returns to Lupoglav. Above Semić, the trail passes a viewpoint at the edge of a limestone cliff.

Hiking and cycling

The Semić–Brest–Semić trail starts near the old school in Semić and leads to the Pod Šćikovico viewpoint. From there, the view extends towards Lupoglav and the surrounding area. The route is about 7 kilometres long and takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, including occasional breaks. The Aurania Route is 11.8 kilometres long, rated as moderate and takes about 2.5 hours. This information helps you distinguish between tours by distance, time required and stated difficulty level.

For mountain bikers, the Učka Bike Route 7 is a difficult, 25-kilometre route along the western slopes of Učka and Ćićarija. The surface is 95 percent gravel and 5 percent asphalt; the ride takes up to three hours. At kilometre 14.3, the route reaches the Brest–Lupoglav asphalt road, and at kilometre 16.3, it reaches Brest. As conditions can change seasonally, it is advisable to check them before setting out.

Boljun and the municipality’s history

Boljun is an old town clustered around a well-preserved medieval castle. The town’s history is also reflected in the Glagolitic script: it was used and taught in Boljun from the 15th century until the end of the 17th century. The Mahrenfels castle once stood east of present-day Lupoglav and was the seat of the Lordship of Lupoglav. Its site was about 1.5 kilometres from present-day Lupoglav.

This makes it possible to focus a stay on nature experiences and historic sites without every excursion having the same character: viewpoints feature on the two trails near Semić, while Boljun and Mahrenfels offer a glimpse into local history.

Local specialities and getting around

In Brest pod Učkom, you can try or buy homemade sheep’s cheese and curd cheese from the Rumac brothers. Check availability before your visit. Učka is also home to a traditional moulded sheep’s cheese variety whose production is associated with Roman times. In Brest pod Učkom, the tradition of charcoal production is preserved using charcoal kilns known as karbunice.

Lupoglav lies on the Ljubljana–Divača–Pula railway line. The main road connections include the D3 from Matulji via Lupoglav, Pazin and Žminj, and the D500 between Ćepić and Vranja. In Lupoglav, key services include a post office and a grocery store. When planning your stay, these points of reference, alongside the hiking and cycling routes, can help you decide what to focus on.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Boljunsko Polje, Lupoglav, Semić, Brest pod Učkom, Boljun, Dolenja Vas, Motovun Municipality, Oprtalj Municipality.

For the broader travel overview: Istria County.