September the 23rd, 2025 – Fužine is a beautiful location in the mountainous region of Gorski Kotar that is a lakeside paradise for all those seeking something different.
As Putni kofer/Antonio Ivcevic writes, Fužine is one of those places in Gorski Kotar that is almost impossible to avoid when talking about tourism in this part of Croatia. Located at 730 metres above sea level, surrounded by forests and mountains, it has been recognised for decades as an ideal destination for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Tourism here is anything but a passing fad, as the first organised group of tourists arrived back in 1874, and since then Fužine has not stopped attracting visitors with its natural beauty and unique amenities. Today, many rightly refer to it as a “little mountain riviera”, with the biggest lure for excursionists undoubtedly being Lake Bajer, the very heart of this picturesque place.
a man-made beauty
The most famous lake in all of Fužine is called Bajer. It was created back in the 1950s by damming the Ličanka River valley, and today it represents the true heart of Fužine. Life by the lake is slower, more relaxed, and with the rhythm of the water, so it’s no wonder that both locals and visitors tend to see it as a central gathering place.
A six-kilometre-long promenade stretches around the lake, offering a completely different experience of nature in every season. Autumn brings out the area’s golden treetops and foggy mornings, winter transforms the promenade into a fairy-tale backdrop like one from the most beautiful Christmas movie, while spring and summer attract walkers, cyclists and families who come to find the perfect spot for a picnic here. The peaceful surface of Bajer reflects the forests and mountain outlines like a mirror, creating breathtaking scenes that will remain embedded in your memory forever.
Lake Bajer is given a special charm by the tourist train “Fužine Express”, which has become an unmissable attraction for visitors of all generations. The ride lasts about half an hour, but in those thirty minutes, passengers experience a real little adventure: a relaxed sightseeing of the landscape by the lake, a view of the surrounding forests and mountains, and the opportunity to get better acquainted with Fužine from a completely different perspective. The train carriages exude a cheerful atmosphere, and the ride is equally appealing to children who enjoy the experience of travelling, as well as to adults looking for a more peaceful way to explore the landscape.
a fishing haven
The prices of the ride are designed to be affordable for everyone. In the off-season, an adult ticket costs 5.50 euros, while in the summer months it’s only a euro more expensive. Of particular note is the family ticket, which includes two parents and up to three children under the age of 18, which is available for 17 euros in the off-season and 19 euros in the main summer season.
Lake Bajer is a real magnet for fishermen too, because it is truly abundant in fish. Numerous species can be found teeming in its waters, making it one of the most popular fishing destinations in all of Gorski Kotar. Many come precisely for the variety of catches, as well as for the peaceful environment that allows for a complete fishing experience. Competitions are also regularly held on Lake Bajer, and it attracts local fishermen and guests from other parts of Croatia equally.
