River Drava, European Amazon: day trip with lunch
Croatia
To escape the crowd and discover a natural gem, spend a day swimming in a cool river, eat in a Michelin recommended restaurant, see some unique art and learn to make a traditional dish called Štrukli.
Overview
This full-day tour explores the Drava River and Podravina region in Croatia, ideal for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and foodies.
Highlights
- Relax or swim in the clean Drava River, protected for its unique biodiversity
- Enjoy a 3-course lunch at the Michelin recommended Fakin restaurant in Legrad
- Visit the Gallery of Naive Art in Hlebine, known for its distinctive Croatian art style
- Participate in a štrukli cooking class and tasting on a traditional family estate
Description
The Drava River is one of the last preserved valley rivers in Europe, flowing through the Podravina region. Protected as a Biosphere reserve, the river maintains its natural meandering course and supports diverse plant and animal life. You can swim in the cool river water, sunbathe on pebble beaches, and relax under poplar trees.
Learn about the natural and cultural history of the river border between Croatia and Hungary. After enjoying the river, have a 3-course lunch at Fakin, a Michelin recommended restaurant located in Legrad, a traditional Podravina village.
In the afternoon, visit the Gallery of Naive Art in Hlebine, the birthplace of a unique Croatian painting style. Naive art from this area features glass paintings that depict village life with whimsy and humor. Artists from Hlebine have gained international recognition through exhibitions worldwide.
The day ends with a štrukli cooking workshop on a family estate at Sunčano Selo in Jagnjedovec, where you will prepare and taste this traditional pastry filled with fresh cottage cheese.
Includes
- All-day transportation in an air-conditioned van
- Coffee break in Koprivnica
- Visit to the Drava River beach
- 3-course lunch at restaurant Fakin (Michelin recommendation)
- Entrance and guided tour of the Gallery of Naive Art, Hlebine
- Štrukli cooking class at Sunčano Selo family estate
Excludes
- Drinks during lunch
Important Information
- Swimming in the river is at your own risk
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Bring swimwear and a towel if you want to swim in the Drava River. The best time to visit is during warm months for river swimming and outdoor activities.
