Jasenice: Majstorska cesta and Velebit

The area of Jasenice lies in the southern foothills of the Velebit. From Velebit and Tulove grede, the view stretches towards the sea; natural pebble beaches are also part of the Općina Jasenice. Together, the mountains and coast shape the character of this destination. The historic Majstorska cesta adds a notable route across the mountains to this landscape. This gives you a clear way to explore Jasenice: you can combine it with mountain scenery, the coast, or the history of transport routes.

Majstorska cesta and Tulove grede

A 24-kilometre section of the historic Majstorska cesta crosses the area of Jasenice and leads towards Mali Alan. As a panoramic mountain road, the route offers views of the Velebit, the Zadar hinterland, and the sea. The 24-kilometre length refers to the section through the Općina Jasenice; the entire Majstorska cesta is 41 kilometres long. As a trans-Velebit route, it connects Sv. Rok in Lika with Obrovac in Dalmatia within the wider destination of Općina Jasenice. The road was completed in 1832 and is a protected cultural asset of Croatia.

The Majstorska cesta passes the geomorphologically significant limestone formations of Tulove grede. The approximately one-kilometre-long ridge consists of limestone and has particularly steep rocky spurs; Tulove grede are an unusual karst feature in Velebit Nature Park. Along the historic route, mountain scenery and a striking example of a karst landscape come together.

Hikes and experiences in Općina Jasenice

Within the wider destination of Općina Jasenice, Modrič, the westernmost part of the municipality of Jasenice, is considered a starting point for hikes to Sveto brdo. The peak is 1,752 metres high and the second-highest in the Velebit. For cyclists, rides along the Majstorska cesta and the climb to Tulove grede are also cycling experiences in Općina Jasenice.

Modrič Cave offers a different experience of nature. It is about 800 metres long; there are no concrete paths or spotlights, nor are there large groups. Suitable equipment and an expert guide are required to explore it. Jet skiing is also among the water sports offered in Općina Jasenice.

History and churches in Općina Jasenice

The Majstorska cesta was officially opened on 4 October 1832. The Church of St Francis in Podprag stands on the slopes of the Velebit below Tulove grede. Emperor Francis I had it built in 1832 in memory of the newly constructed road, which connected southern and northern Croatia across the karst Velebit Mountains. The dedication links the church to the history of the mountain route.

The Church of St Jerome in Jasenice was built in 1874 on the site of the former parish church of the Holy Trinity. After the end of the Croatian War, it was gradually restored as the population returned to the area of the municipality of Jasenice.

In Rovanjska, the Church of St George stands right on the seashore. It is a protected Category Zero monument and a cultural heritage site of the Republic of Croatia.

Discover more destinations: Rovanjska

Go to the broader travel overview: Općina Jasenice.