Barac Caves

The Barac caves at Nova Krslja were opened to visitors in 1892, which makes them among the earliest show caves in this part of Europe - the local people had known them far longer and used them as refuges during the Ottoman period. Visits stopped in the mid-twentieth century and the caves were forgotten; systematic work began again after 2004 and the upper cave now has a path, lighting and guided tours. Bones of cave bear and other Pleistocene fauna have come out of the sediments. The tour runs through chambers with columns, curtains and flowstone, about forty-five minutes underground.

What you'll find

• A show cave since 1892 - among the earliest in the region.
• Used as a refuge - in Ottoman times.
• Reopened after 2004 - path and lighting installed then.
• Cave bear remains - from the sediments inside.

When to go

April to October; tours run less often outside summer. Two hours.

Practical notes

Guided access only and the schedule thins off season - booking is sensible. The path has steps and uneven sections. It is cool and damp inside. Only part of the system is open.

Nearby

Plitvice is south; Rastoke and Slunj are north.

Key facts