The development of Mount Učka has been determined by the area’s specific climatic characteristics. The mountain, whose slopes are ‘immersed’ in the sea, is home to many endemic plant and animal species. This biodiversity, as well as the uniqueness of the mountain relief, is one of the reasons why most of the area today is protected as a nature park. In addition to Učka, the largest Istrian and Kvarner mountain, the Učka Nature Park also includes a part of the Ćićarija massif and covers a total area of 160 square kilometres.
Učka was also the cradle of civilisation for the entire region, as ten thousand years ago the first groups of nomadic hunters established themselves here, which is the period that the archaeological sites of Pupićina and Vela Peć in Vela Draga bear witness to. In old Slavic mythology, the mountain was seen as the home of gods and was a sacred place for mere mortals.
Each part of Mount Učka has its own story to tell: about people, deities, fairies and elves, as well as amazing natural, plant and animal beauties. In addition, the Učka Nature Park offers lots of excitement for adventurous guests. Thanks to a specially designed offer and sports and recreational facilities, in this area you can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, free climbing, caving, adventure racing, paragliding, or simply walking along various educational trails with a total length of several dozen kilometres.
The view from Vojak, the highest peak of Učka, is especially impressive, because it includes the entire Istrian and Kvarner region, with the islands on the blue horizon. On clear days, it even extends as far as Venice. The tower that was built on Vojak raised its highest point to more than 1,400 metres above sea level.