Reconstruction of the Mountain Lodge on Visočica – Gojtan’s Lodge
Project objective: Development of sustainable tourism through the improvement of visitor infrastructure, enhancement of service quality, and enrichment of the tourist experience with special forms of sports and recreational tourism.
Project description: Gojtan’s Lodge, the mountain hut on Visočica, was originally built in 1929. Located at the upper border of the forest belt, about one kilometer west of the summit of Visočica, this lodge was an important refuge for mountaineers and nature lovers. Unfortunately, on September 9, 1940, the lodge was destroyed by fire. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the members of the “Visočica” Mountaineering Association from Gospić, led by the president, engineer Jure Kosović, and with strong support from the Croatian Mountaineering Association and the local community, the lodge was rebuilt and reopened on September 16, 1962.
During the Homeland War in 1991, Gojtan’s Lodge was again destroyed by fire and has not been rebuilt since. In 2014, the City of Gospić initiated steps for land subdivision, preparation of project documentation, and land management, but the project was unfortunately not completed. The restoration of Gojtan’s Lodge is of exceptional historical and cultural significance and will greatly enrich the tourist and educational offerings of Velebit Nature Park.
In 2022, the Public Institution Velebit Nature Park, with financial support from the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund, prepared project documentation for the reconstruction and obtained a building permit. The planned reconstruction will begin in 2025, with completion expected by the end of 2026. Construction is funded by the Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency Fund (80%) and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transition (20%) from the Common Funds of Croatia’s Parks.
Reviving this historic lodge will once again allow mountaineers and visitors to enjoy the beauty of Velebit with safe and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the mountain.
Project Holder: Public Institution Velebit Nature Park
Project Duration: 2022–2026
Project Value: €1,060,000
