Korita (1092 m), a hidden source of untouched nature above the picturesque village of Brgudac, is a fairytale-like place made for nature lovers, hikers, and adventurers. Nestled in the mountains of Istria, this peaceful refuge offers all the opportunities for a fresh-air rest in pristine surroundings. Just an hour and a half’s drive from the coastal towns, it reveals the charm and appeal of the peninsula’s mountainous region. Istria is beautiful in every corner, even in its mountain landscapes, like the Ćićarija region, which we always return to with great fondness.
Location and starting Point:
Our journey to Korita begins at the source above the village of Brgudac. The surrounding mountain peaks of the Ćićarija range create an inviting landscape. The ascent to Korita offers various routes, depending on your preferences, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and tireless adventurers alike. Officially, the trail begins in Brgudac, a picturesque village situated in the heart of the mountains. For those seeking a more extended hike, the route can start in Lupoglav.
Lupoglav: A Meeting Place for Hikers
The ascent from Lupoglav will remind you of times when cars weren’t so widespread, and people would travel by train. As it was in the past, you’ll enjoy the landscape as you cross fields leading to Semići, one of the hidden villages of Ćićarija. After Semići, the path becomes steeper, and the sound of birdsong will guide you to a rock, which can serve as shelter during unfavorable weather. From there, the trail continues to Brgudac, the more frequently used segment of the hike. If you’ve underestimated your water supplies, there’s no need to worry. Korita is known for its fresh water source, and there’s also a spring in Brgudac.
Brgudac – Korita:
Brgudac, a small village in Ćićarija, is an unavoidable destination for hikers, adventurers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Sitting at 747 meters above sea level, it is considered the highest village in Istria. This place is also a site of historical significance, particularly related to the events of World War II. During the war, the village was nearly destroyed, and you can learn more about its history at the memorial house. Just beside the memorial, you’ll find the drinking water spring. The mountain atmosphere of Korita offers an excellent chance to enjoy untouched nature, particularly in the warmer summer months.
Walk past the fountain and begin the 40-minute ascent to Korita. The trail is well-maintained and starts with a partially rocky path through a dense deciduous forest, a segment that lasts about 15 minutes. Continuing through beautiful pine, fir, oak, and juniper trees, you’ll find yourself at Korita after about 40 minutes of walking. If the hike becomes too tiring, take a break, relax, and breathe in the scent of pine trees while soaking up the serene surroundings. The forest thins out as you approach the summit, and the views through the treetops begin to open up.
Before reaching Korita, reward yourself with a breathtaking view of Istria. On clear days, the sea becomes visible. Now, you’re on the edge of the Ćićarija gem. Just a hundred meters further and you’ll reach the Korita spring. Across from the spring, you can enjoy a view of Učka with its highest peak, Vojak, and in the valley, there is a small lake formed by the spring. In winter, it’s not uncommon for the lake to freeze.
Korita in Ćićarija: The Story of the Spring
Whether you visit Korita in the morning or at sunset, the spring is always a sight to behold, especially at sunrise when the first rays of sunlight reflect off the water. According to historical records and stories from the local inhabitants, this spring is a perennial source. Recognizing its importance, the Austro-Hungarian authorities arranged the spring for easier access to water through 13 stone basins. During dry periods, this was the only spring that wouldn’t run dry.
A long time ago, shepherds established these basins, which is how the spring got its name. The people of Brgudac would often come here to water their cattle, sometimes numbering up to 3,000 head. As hiking became more popular, this site gained a reputation as a favorite destination for nature lovers. After World War II, the spring remained unrenovated, but its restoration began in 1975. Today, the “Učka Nature Park” has completed the final reconstruction, resulting in the Korita we see today. While the original stone basins were replaced with wooden ones, the spirit of this special place remains intact.
Why I Love Korita
I’ve been hiking here for over two decades, and every time I return, I find the same sense of wonder. My first steps in the mountains were taken at Korita, where I learned the true meaning of nature’s silence, beauty, and strength. Today, as a guide, I still come here with the same excitement, leading groups and passing on my love for the mountains to the younger generations. It’s always a joy to see new hikers fall in love with these trails, just as I did. Korita is more than just a destination for me; it’s where my journey began, and it continues to be a place where I find peace and inspiration.
Korita Today: A Rest Stop for Hikers, Adventurers, and Travelers
Korita is a beloved stop for hikers, adventurers, and tourists seeking a day in untouched nature. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a casual trekker, stopping here for a refreshing drink from the spring is a must. The surrounding peaks—Veli Planik, Vojak, and Borisova Stijena just above Korita—will seem even more conquerable after replenishing with fresh water.
View from Brajkov Vrh:
The peak just above Korita offers stunning views of Planik and the Istrian landscape, with its hilltop villages, valleys, Lake Butoniga, Učka, and its highest peak, Vojak. You can reach the summit via two routes. One is a longer, less steep path, while the other is shorter but steeper. Both paths are manageable without climbing aids, as trees and rocks provide natural support.
Korita Mountain Hut:
Near the spring, you’ll enter a pine forest, which leads to the Korita Mountain Hut. Established in 1989 by the P.D. Glas Istre hiking club, it’s a great place to rest on one of the benches or enjoy grilling. The hut is open on weekends, and Korita is part of the Istrian Hiking Trail (IPP), which stretches from Crveni Vrh through Žbevnice and Vojak to Crna Punta. This trail was first mapped in 1976, and we’ll explore that in a future article.
A visit to Korita will leave you feeling rejuvenated and full of memories. Hikers who started from Brgudac will likely continue their journey to Veliki and Mali Planik or Orljak on the other side, with a signpost for nearby peaks right next to the Korita Mountain Hut.
Descent from Korita:
The descent from Korita is possible via a forest path, which is less steep than the classic hiking trail. Before leaving Brgudac, pay attention to the monument dedicated to the people of Brgudac who, in search of a “better tomorrow,” temporarily or permanently left their native village. As the inscription reads:
“…Many tears were shed, but many a glass of wine was also drunk.”