Veternica Cave

Veternica runs about seven kilometres into the flank of Medvednica, the mountain on Zagreb's northern edge, which makes it one of the longer caves in Croatia; the first 380 metres are opened for guided visits and the rest is left to research. Excavation at the entrance has produced stone tools and animal bones indicating Neanderthal use, along with very large quantities of cave bear remains. The cave is also a major bat site, with around eighteen species recorded, and the visiting season is set around their breeding and hibernation. Tours are guided, with lamps issued, and the cave has no fitted electric lighting.

What you actually see

• About seven kilometres of passage - with the first 380 metres open.
• Neanderthal traces - tools and bones from the entrance excavations.
• Cave bear remains in quantity - from the same deposits.
• Around eighteen bat species - which set the visiting season.

When to go

April to October, on the guided schedule; closed for bat hibernation. Half a day.

Honest expectations

Access is guided only and on set days, usually weekends - check before going. It is a walk of twenty to thirty minutes uphill from the parking. No fitted lighting; lamps are issued. Cold and damp inside.

Nearby

Medvednica's trails run above; Medvedgrad fortress is on the same slope.