Kalnik

Kalnik is a narrow limestone ridge running east to west north of Krizevci, rising to about 640 metres, with bare rock crest and beech woods on the flanks - unusual in a region of rounded wooded hills. The medieval castle of Veliki Kalnik stands on the crest, ruined, and the story attached to it is that Bela IV sheltered here during the Mongol invasion of 1242 and was fed by the local peasants, who were rewarded with noble status; the story is traditional and the documentary basis is thin. The ridge is walked on marked paths with a mountain hut, and the exposed rock has climbing routes.

What you'll find

• A bare limestone crest - unusual among the rounded hills around.
• The ruin of Veliki Kalnik - a medieval castle on the ridge.
• A king and the peasants - the tradition of 1242, thinly documented.
• A hut and climbing routes - the ridge's regular use.

When to go

April to October; the rock is slippery in wet or icy weather. Half a day.

Good to know

The final approach to the castle is a scramble on rock with exposure. The ruin is unfenced. The hut keeps weekend hours mainly. Facilities in the village are minimal.

Nearby

Krizevci is south; Varazdin is north-west.