Municipality of Pitomača: Drava Landscapes and Cultural Heritage

In Križnica, the old course of the Drava, still waters and a distinctive access route shape the visit. The Municipality of Pitomača also offers literary heritage, tambura traditions and experiences along the Drava that can shape your trip.

Križnica and its protected landscape

Križnica is designated as an important protected landscape area because of its exceptional aesthetic and biological value. The old course of the Drava and its still waters provide a habitat for many fish species. The regional park within the Municipality of Pitomača also contains four protected areas of significant landscape value: Močvarno stanište Vir, covering 1.15 ha; Širinski otok, covering 105.65 ha; Jelkuš, covering 291.85 ha; and Križnica, covering 803.17 ha.

Access to Križnica is also shaped by the river landscape. The only land connection with the rest of Croatia is a suspension bridge about 2 m wide, with a steel structure and a wooden walkway. A cable ferry also crosses the Drava, but it cannot operate when water levels are low or high. If you plan to take the ferry, check in advance whether it will be operating during your visit.

Literature, music and cultural heritage

The Kuća Petra Preradovića (Petar Preradović House) is in Grabrovnica, within the Municipality of Pitomača. The house was built in 1775; in 1968, one of the first museums dedicated to a writer was established there. The Interpretacijski centar Kuća Petra Preradovića (Petar Preradović House Interpretation Centre) includes an immersive 3D virtual-reality reconstruction of the poet’s birthplace. Visits are possible Monday to Friday by prior appointment. Outside regular opening hours, visits are possible with at least 48 hours’ notice.

Tambura music is also part of Pitomača’s cultural history: the first tambura ensemble was founded there in 1906. The Festival pjesme Podravine i Podravlja promotes new songs inspired by the culture and heritage of Croatian regions along the Drava. While the ensemble’s founding marks a historical connection, the festival focuses on new songs.

On Kladarski breg, TIC Klopotec is home to Croatia’s largest klopotec, a traditional symbol of viticulture in Podravina. TIC Klopotec offers an opportunity to learn about local cultural heritage and take part in workshops and events. There are also panoramic views of the Podravina plains, the slopes of Bilogora and the distant horizons of neighbouring Hungary.

Cycling, horseback tours and nature watching

The cycling routes in the Pitomača destination include EuroVelo 13—the Iron Curtain Trail. Horseback tours start at Zlatni klas; the excursion routes are ready and a guide is provided. These offer different ways to explore: cycling routes, horseback tours and nature watching along the Drava.

With Drava Tour Adventure, visitors can watch herds of deer and protected sand martins along the river. At the Jelkuš sandbank, it is possible to make a short stop and sunbathe on the wild beach. Wildlife sightings may vary; the possible stop at Jelkuš offers a different focus from watching the riverbank fauna.

Seasonal cuisine and wine

Dani pečenjakov is a summer event in Pitomača. At the event, pečenjak—roasted corn—is prepared in various ways and introduced to visitors in late July or early August. Its seasonal focus makes the event a distinctive culinary highlight of the trip.

OPG CHRESNO has a wine-tasting venue that is fully prepared for the tourism market. Check the current visiting arrangements before your visit.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Pitomača, Otrovanec, Municipality of Voćin, Municipality of Gradina, Municipality of Sopje, Municipality of Slatina, Municipality of Orahovica, Municipality of Virovitica.

Go to the regional travel overview: Virovitica-Podravina.