Most of the Kajbumščak Trail routes traverse Strahinjčica Mountain and the surrounding hills that encircle the town of Krapina.

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Strahinjčica is a mid-altitude mountain with steep slopes, forming a natural connection between Mount Ivanščica to the east and the Kostel Highlands to the west, effectively dividing the Zagorje region into two parts. Its ridge stretches approximately 21 kilometers from east to west and features dramatic inclines—its cross-section is never more than 3 kilometers wide. Although mostly forested, it possesses characteristics typical of high mountain ranges, making it a beloved destination for hikers, especially due to its proximity to Krapina.

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Strahinjčica doesn’t have a prominent peak. The highest point (846 meters) lies on the northern ridge near a large beech tree. Since this ridge is covered with tall beech trees, it offers little to no panoramic view.

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Notable peaks along the main ridge from west to east include:

• Slon (445 m)

• Gorjak (678 m)

• Goleš (685 m)

• Sušec (846 m – the highest point)

• Sekolje (738 m)

 

Nearby standalone hills include:

• St. Jacob’s Hill (474 m)

• Veternica (511 m)

 

Strahinjčica rises sharply above Krapina (176 m) like a massive, steeply inclined roof dominating the landscape and giving the region a distinctive appearance. The slopes are nearly vertical and densely forested—oak trees dominate the southern slopes, while the northern side is covered with beech trees and low underbrush.

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The flora of Strahinjčica is exceptionally rich. Around 1,000 different species of higher plants have been identified (research by Dr. Ljerka Regula-Bevilacqua). Remarkably, the area is also known as a vast natural orchid garden, with 32 recorded species and subspecies of orchids.

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Adding to its alpine charm are the Jelenske Caves and towering rock columns that jut from the ridge, creating steep ravines and gorges that descend sharply to the foothills.

 

Hiking History

 

The exploration of Strahinjčica dates back to the early days of mountaineering in Croatia:

• The first marked trail appeared in 1892.

• The trail to the Goleš peak was cleared in 1899.

• Mountaineering activity increased with the construction of the mountain lodge (opened in 1951).

• Trails were marked from Krapina and the Žutnica train station to the lodge and Sušec peak.

 

Further development came with:

• The addition of a ZPP trail section from Trakošćan to the lodge (1957)

• The construction of a gravel access road (1963)

• Launch of notable hiking circuits:

  • “Styrian–Zagorje Circular Trail” (1968)

  • “Kajbumščak Trail Route” (1979)

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Source: www.pd-strahinjcica.hr