Some of the most spectacular sections of the Velebit mountains are located at the southern end of the range, where rocky peaks riven by deep gorges hover above a stretch of coast centred on the resort town of Starigrad-Paklenica.

Now protected as the Paklenica National Park, the area contains one classic Croatian hiking route - and one that can be accessed by the average recreational hiker – the ascent of the Velika Paklenica gorge.

The trail up the gorge begins about 3km inland from Starigrad-Paklenica, and ascends gradually between steep valley sides besude a boulder-strewn riverbed. With sheer cliffs alternating with steep, forest-covered slopes, it’s a spectacular defile.

As well as being perfect hiking terrain it is also popular with rock climbers, who come to test themselves against the rock walls that frequently press against either side of the valley.

Tunnels