You've probably often seen pictures of people hugging trees – but there's more to this gesture than just a symbolic connection to nature. Tree hugging also has a scientific basis.
Studies show that being in the forest and in contact with trees reduces stress levels, lowers blood pressure and pulse, improves mood and concentration, and increases feelings of peace and connection.
In the Nordic countries and Japan, this practice is part of “forest therapy” (also known as Shinrin Yoku – forest bathing), and more and more people are discovering the healing power of nature.
So, the next time your path takes you into the woods – don't hesitate to place your palms on the trunk, close your eyes and simply – feel the tree. Connecting with nature starts with small steps.
World Forest Day
World Forest Day, which is celebrated 21. March, is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of forests and their protection. This year, a series of educational and environmental activities are being organized across Croatia that highlight the key role of forests in preserving the environment and quality of life.
The central event is taking place today on Biokovo, where, in cooperation with the relevant institutions, associations and the local community, the reforestation of the burned area will be carried out. This initiative comes after a major fire in the summer of 2024, which devastated almost a thousand hectares of low vegetation and pine forest in this nature park.
In Zagreb, ecological clean-up and education campaigns are underway, including a workshop and a roundtable discussion on the city's green spaces. Velika Gorica is organizing field trips for students, while Lipovljani is hosting an exhibition dedicated to forestry. Karlovac will host a discussion on the state and future of Kozjača, and students from Vojnić will tour an educational trail. Insect monitoring begins on Petrova gora, while a clean-up campaign will be held in Pisarovina. Koprivnica is organizing a large tree planting event, Varaždin is educating students, and Križevci is hosting programs for the youngest. In Vinkovci, children are participating in a creative workshop in the city park, while Osijek is cleaning up the Danube bank. Petrinja will plant special linden clones, and Delnice is organizing a panel discussion on the protection of the nature of Gorski Kotar.
Croatia is a country rich in forests that cover almost half of its land area, providing invaluable ecological, economic, and tourist value.
Five locations you definitely won't go wrong with
For lovers of nature and forest expanses, here are a few ideas for which forests and parks to visit in Croatia:
Medvednica Nature Park: Medvednica It is not an Alpine massif, but it is not a gentle hill either. For the people of Zagreb, the mountain with its 1033-meter-high peak, Sljeme, is just right for them. Going to Sljeme is an unavoidable ritual for many locals.
Although you can reach the summit and various other points by car, by bicycle, by public transport, but also by cable car, the majority of excursionists will choose walking. It is marked around 70 trails, and some of the more popular are educational trails Bliznec and Miroslavec, Leustek's and Bikčević's path, Šumarev put or Horvat's stairs.
/// Zagreb in touch with nature: A hike or forest walk in the metropolis
Golubinjak Forest Park: Located in Gorski Kotar, this park offers wonderful moments for nature lovers, with an area of 52 hectares of protected area.
It is significant that almost all protected parts of Gorski Kotar's nature are related to the phenomenon of karst, and a typical example of this is Golubinjak Forest Park near Lokave. Caves, pits, glaciers, rocks, sinkholes and stone bridges are all hidden in the shade of coniferous trees up to 300 years old. Who wants to experience the beauty and magnificence of the Gorski Kotar forests, and does not want to bother with too long tours and hiking, this is a location that is definitely a must visit.
/// The green embrace of nature in Gorski Kotar
Mljet National Park: This park hides untouched nature full of salt lakes, dense forests and tranquil bays, ideal for kayaking, cycling and swimming in crystal clear waters.
Mljet is ours the greenest island, lush Mediterranean vegetation, clear and clean sea, gentle bays, rich underwater wildlife. It is said that whoever meets this historical island of miraculous beauty and original nature once becomes its lover and gladly returns to it again.
/// Spring outdoor on Mljet - rest, relaxation, recreation and discovery of natural beauty
Slapnica Valley: A hidden gem nestled in the heart Žumbera Nature Parkk, ideal for a day trip, especially after rain when the waterfalls are lush.
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and at least briefly surrender to the natural beauty of the Zagreb surroundings, the Slapnica Canyon in the area Žumberak Nature Park - Samobor Highlands It's an excellent choice. There are five large waterfalls in the park, one of which is the 15-meter-high Brisalo waterfall.
/// Excursion near Zagreb: Majestic Brisalo waterfall and Slapnica canyon
Jankovac on Papuk – one of the most beautiful valleys in Croatia, located in the heart of the Papuk Nature Park. Jankovac delights with waterfalls, forest trails and a charming mountain lodge – an ideal destination for family outings and nature lovers.
Iz Papuk Nature Park don't leave without visiting Jankovac forest park. Even before Papuk was declared a Nature Park, Jankovac was a protected nature reserve – a forest park. It was named after Josip Janković, a member of the Slavonian noble family Janković. The harmonious natural whole consists of a valley, forested slopes, streams, and artificial lakes created by Josip pl. Janković. At the end of the valley is the 35-meter-high “Skakavac” waterfall.
/// Papuk Nature Park, an ideal destination for Easter weekend
A visit to these forests provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the fresh air, and discover Croatia's rich biodiversity. Celebrating World Forest Day reminds us of the importance of preserving these precious ecosystems and encourages responsible behavior towards nature.
