When and where does the Croatian Walking Festival take place?

The festival takes place on September 5-6, 2026, in Gospić.

What are the trail lengths at the festival?

Participants can choose from trails of 10+, 20+, and 30+ kilometers.

Until when is registration open for the festival?

Registration is open until August 31, 2026, and can be completed online at prijava.croatiawalk.com.

Who are Nikola Tesla and Ante Starčević in the context of the festival?

They are two great figures born in the Lika region, and the festival trails are named after them, the Tesla Trails and the Starčević Trails.

Travel

First Weekend of September in Gospić: Trails from 10 to 30+ Kilometers

P.U. · Prije 1h | 2 min

The Croatian Walking Festival on September 5-6 blends an active getaway with Lika's heritage. Registration is open until August 31, and recreational walkers, families, and seasoned hikers can all find their pace.

Summary

The Croatian Walking Festival takes place on September 5-6, 2026, in Gospić.
Three trail categories are offered: 10+, 20+, and 30+ kilometers, named the Tesla and Starčević Trails.
Registration is open until August 31 at prijava.croatiawalk.com.
The festival is non-competitive, and this year it will be joined by healthy living promoter Mario Valentić.

Make 5MIN.hr a preferred source

The first weekend of September will once again turn Gospić into a hub of active tourism. The Croatian Walking Festival, held on September 5-6, 2026, offers two days of movement through Lika's nature and history, linking recreation with the stories of two great figures born in this region.

Two Days, Two Heritage Trails

The festival is designed so that each day offers a unique experience. On Saturday, September 5, participants will walk the Tesla Trails, and on Sunday, September 6, the Starčević Trails. These routes connect an active holiday with the places and legacy of Nikola Tesla and Dr. Ante Starčević.

The organizers have prepared routes of varying lengths so that everyone can find a suitable challenge. Trails of 10+, 20+, and 30+ kilometers are available. This opens the festival to recreational walkers, families, nature lovers, and more experienced hikers seeking a greater challenge.

Not a Race, but a Personal Goal

The Croatian Walking Festival does not emphasize results or speed. The focus is on personal goals, chosen trails, camaraderie, and the satisfaction of every kilometer covered. What makes this event special is that participants don't just cover kilometers-they also journey through the stories that have shaped Lika.

"The Croatian Walking Festival year after year confirms Lika's potential for developing active tourism. By combining walking, nature, and our heritage, we want to offer guests an authentic experience of the destination and an additional reason to visit Lika-Senj County. We invite everyone to join us in Gospić on September 5-6 and choose their trail," said Ivan Radošević, Director of the Lika-Senj County Tourist Board.

A Special Guest Among Walkers

This year's edition will also feature Mario Valentić, a well-known promoter of a healthy and active lifestyle. Valentić will spend the weekend with participants and be part of the walking experience in Gospić.

The festival is jointly organized by the Croatian Walking Association and the Lika-Senj County Tourist Board. Registration is open until August 31, 2026, and all interested parties can sign up online via the link prijava.croatiawalk.com to secure their spot for the first September weekend in the heart of Lika.