Medvednica: The slopes of Medvednica Nature Park (tel: (01) 458 6317; website: www.pp-medvednica.hr) are perfect for hiking. The highest peak, Sljeme (1,033m /3,389ft), offers great views and can be reached by cable car. From here, marked footpaths lead through woodland and several mountain huts offer hearty meals and basic overnight accommodation. There are also 15 mountain biking trails, and in winter it is possible to ski.

Samobor: Best known for its kremsnita (custard pie), Samobor makes a pleasant excursion, with its romantic cobbled street, elegant main square and the picturesque riverside Mala Venecija (Little Venice). The nearby Zumberak and Samobor Nature Park (tel: (01) 332 7660; website: www.pp-zumberak-samoborsko-gorje.hr) is criss-crossed by hiking paths.