Mrzla Vodica: Lake, Fishing and MTB

Mrzla Vodica combines a lake with specific fishing regulations and a longer MTB route. Two questions are particularly important when planning your visit: What rules apply at the lake, and where does the cycling route go? The wider destination of Općina Lokve offers additional, distinct nature and cultural experiences.

Lake and Fishing in Mrzla Vodica

Lake Mrzla Vodica was created in 1999 by building a dam between Lokvarsko (Omladinsko) Lake and the Mrzla Vodica basin. The two bodies of water are separated by and connected through the dam. The lake’s creation makes the dam a central part of its landscape history.

Catch and release applies to all fish species except Prussian carp and pumpkinseed sunfish. A day or annual permit is required for fishing. Predator fishing from a boat is permitted. As rules may change, check the current regulations and applicable permit requirements before your visit.

Mountain Biking

A 27.5-kilometre MTB route connects Gornje Jelenje, Platak, Cajtige and Mrzla Vodica. After reaching Mrzla Vodica, the route follows the old Lujzijana road towards Gornje Jelenje. Along the way, the route offers views of the Risnjak massif. The distance and the named places give you specific points of reference for planning; check the route details with the provider before setting out, as they may change.

More to Explore in Općina Lokve

In the wider destination of Općina Lokve, Lokvarsko Lake offers a separate lakeside attraction. It was created as a reservoir in the 1950s. Swimming is possible there in summer, and fishing is permitted year-round. This makes the area’s offerings include both a seasonal activity and one that is available throughout the year.

Natural attractions also include Špilja Lokvarka, protected as a geomorphological natural monument since 1961. The section explored to date is 1,179 metres long, while the cave is 275 metres deep overall. Of its six levels, the first four are open to visitors. As access regulations may change, check the latest visitor information in advance.

The protected Golubinjak Forest Park covers 51 hectares. Arrange guided walks in advance by phone or email; barbecue areas can also be rented. Check their availability well ahead of time. The 10.82-kilometre “Staza spilja” (Cave Trail) passes through an area with numerous karst features and formations. Visitors can explore speleological sites along the route.

Culture and regional products are also part of what Općina Lokve has to offer. The “Muzej žaba” (Frog Museum) is housed in the KC “Picirk” building in Lokve. Kuća prirode “Kotač” (House of Nature “Kotač”) features a permanent exhibition on the history of Lujzinska cesta. You can also sample locally made Gorski Kotar herbal liqueurs, visit the production room and see in the attic where mountain herbs and plants are dried for production. The traditional “Žabarska noć” (Frog Night) has been held in Lokve since 1974.

Discover more destinations: Praputnjak, Ponikve, Krasica, Zlobin, Bakar, Kukuljanovo, Hreljin, Škrljevo

To the main travel overview: Općina Bakar.