+ Accommodation

Featuring the best of ranch living in rooms, suites, chalet, lodges, river tents and Native American tipis with finely appointed amenities to help guests relax after a day of horse riding and other activities.

Wood and natural décor create a peaceful atmosphere to feel the harmony with nature and yourself for fun and relaxation. Attire is relaxed and comfortable.

Facilities

• All include private baths (river tents and tipi bathrooms are detached), porches and mountain views.
• Woodstoves keep you cozy.
• Custom duvets & luxury linens
• Bathrobe and slippers
• Bathroom amenities
• Daily housekeeping services
• Wireless Internet access
• Phone chargers (on request)
• Hairdryer
• In-room safe
• Laundry services
• Ironing board & iron (upon request)
• Fully-equipped kitchens (selected units)

While you will not find in-room telephones or television, mobile phones will work here.

Buffalo Lodge sleeps 8

Charming 1924 mountain cabin for frontier style country living restored following traditional construction techniques.

1st floor: bedroom, rustic bathroom with a two meter long soaking tub, living room, balcony overlooking the Square, private terrace with mountain views and kitchen.

2nd floor: luxury suite - includes a sitting area and separate bathroom. Self-catering or personal chef service.

Lakota Tipis

Live closer to nature in a genuine American Indian tipi (made by the organisation that made tipis for the Kevin Costner film, “Dances with Wolves”) with warm light by day, dancing shadows by night, and, if it rains, a soothing patter of drops while you stay cozy and dry. Detached bathrooms (within metres) are fully equipped with hot-water showers, toilets, bathrobes, slippers and toiletries.

River Tents

The newest addition to ranch accommodations— glamping safari tents on the river bank. Twin bed accommodation with enough room under the beds for your luggage, the finest linens, amenities, private baths, and front porch rocking chairs to relax after a day in the saddle. Bathrooms are detached and are 50 yards away, each fully equipped with hot water showers, wash basins, toilet and full array of toiletries, including plush bathrobes and slippers to keep you cozy. A bush experience with a dash of luxury.

En-Suite Rooms

Two double (Bear Cave and Sweet Grass) and two single en-suite rooms (Ponderosa and Wrangler) offer maximum comfort with carefully appointed furniture, feather beds, massage showers, uncluttered simplicity and nurturing silence as a result of natural, sheep's wool insulation sourced from sheep herders in the valley. Wood for building doors, windows and furniture was sourced at the ranch as part of sustainable forestry program. Wash down the day’s trail dust with a drink on the private porches watching evening settle over the valley.

Casitas

Casita Stella and Luna (named after two young mares) reminiscent of African mud huts in shape. Each consist of master bedroom, working and reading area with cast iron wood stove and bathroom on a single level carefully considered with people with special physical needs in mind. An extra cot or bed can be added for a child. Private gardens outside and swimming pool and Japanese hot tub only meter away

+ Facilities

• The Square: The gathering place, where meals are served during warm weather, dances held on a long summer evenings and where our reception is located.

• Hot Tub: Immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese ofuro wooden bath heated by a wood stove to destress tensions, soothe pains, and stimulate circulation.

• The Barn: Favourite hangout for horse buzz, wranglers and guests alike!

• Riding Arena: Adjacent to the barn, where riding classes, horsemanship lectures and demonstrations and the rodeo are held.

• Equipond: A specially designed training ground for horses - filled with water in order to develop the strength of the horse, ensure the fastest rehabilitation possible and enable horses to overcome fear of water. It’s great for riders to learn how a horse will behave near water and how to manage it.

• Studio Hall: This serves as a yoga studio, cinema, workshop, library and meeting room, and includes a wood stove, library and selection of Japanese artifacts.

• Swimming Pool: Freshen up after the morning horseback ride or chill out on a lounge chair and read your favorite book in the afternoon. The hangout spot for children and grown-ups alike. Kids love playing pool games like volleyball or water handball. During high season, enjoy a pool cocktail party once a week.

+ Eating & drinking

• Daily breakfast, lunch, hors d’oeuvres and dinner
• Varied dining experiences
• Children’s menu suited to their taste
• Exciting outdoor dining in warmer months
• Catered dietary restrictions

Wake to freshly brewed coffee in the ambient eco-chic country charm dining room.

The Saloon, a former horse barn-turned dining room. With its western décor and antiques you’ll feel like you’re on a cowboy movie set!

Food is ‘a Croatian mosaic of world flavours - a sensational fusion of Mediterranean dishes plated with international flare’. This soul food "cooked with love” is based on healthy living, commitment to the environment, community, sustainability and homely comfort: fresh, nutrient rich, tasty food that nourishes from within.

• Bread is baked daily using local grains and the daily set menu is seasonal, using fresh ingredients sourced locally either from nature or community-based project grown, from local bio-dynamic and organic farming suppliers.
• The modern natural cuisine favours reduction sauces over cream-based, vegetable-based broths over meat stock, organic ingredients over conventional.
• There’s even a beer brewed specifically for Linden Tree with no artificial additives and using water that runs through the ranch.

Mountain picnics: During day safaris, simple but tasty lunch is prepared and served by guides.

Honeymoons, anniversary and romantic couples, may dine in-suite, alfresco in the meadow or on a private balcony as a special treat.

Please inform in advance of any restrictions, allergies, or special medical conditions.

Please note, being in true wilderness, the nearest shop is 23 km away and food brought from the outside cannot be stored, as per the health code. No food should be stored inside tents or tipis, unless you would like to have big furry forest visitors for dinner (or they, you)!

Between lunch and dinner times, the restaurant serves a small but tasty a la carte menu.

+ Activities

At Linden Tree, activities are focused on core values of conservation, community and cultural exchange.

Specialists in horse riding in Croatia, a combination of different activities is recommended to explore retreat, balance and body rejuvenation. With miles to discover, all guests are encourage all guests to do two activities per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon or one full-day activity.

All activities include guides and a selection of gear, such as hiking boots, hats, helmets, skis, sled, etc., available at the Barn.

Activities, available 9am-5pm, 7 days a week, weekly include but are not limited to:

• Country wagon ride: visit local community hospitality & organic farm
• Trail adventures: Hiking, mountain biking and animal tracking
• River: Canoeing and caving
• Nature conservation jeep safari
• Target sports: Archery, geocaching
• Little Bears Kids Club for guests aged 4-12: pony rides, gold panning, cowboy games, arts & crafts, wildlife monitoring
• Leisure: volleyball, badminton, karaoke, board games, CD/DVD and book library
• Relax: Outdoor pool, hot tub, , cinema
• Evenings: dance nights, campfire/storytelling nights, live entertainment, karaoke, private movie screenings, panel discussions, science lectures... There are many options!

In addition to special events such as summer rodeos, visiting practitioners, and therapy professionals, the Ranch hosts seasonal celebrations and activities, such as cowboy poetry, lawn games, fireworks, and live music, all part of the all-inclusive experience.

Horsemanship

A main activity at the ranch and the entire Linden team is made of true lovers of horses, and one of the best herds of horses in Croatia. From 2-hour trail rides to full days to multi-day rides, the wranglers at the Ranch are well versed in natural horsemanship, a real understanding and a deep communication with horses. They love sharing their passion for horseback riding with guests of all different experience levels, from absolute beginner to seasoned equestrian, with activities suitable both for grown-ups and children alike. While on the trail, learn all about the land, wildlife and flora of Croatia.

Velebit Mountain Riding Expeditions

For true equestrians and adventurers, for 3 to 9 days, carefully tailored to achieve total abandonment of modern civilization in exchange for the wilderness and experiencing a cowboy way of life, a supernatural inspiration of nature and life.

Workshops

Add to a gradual introduction to horseback riding from colt starting to horsemanship, and after a brief orientation and safety briefing you’ll be matched to a horse that will help in making this the best horseback riding experience you have ever imagined. The Ranch offers a variety of lessons related to safely and comfortably riding, to hone skills and confidence. Private and group riding lessons are available.

Retreat with a good book from the library in the shade of the Secret Garden trees or soak in the fireplace-heated jacuzzi, while sipping a glass of champagne – an unforgettable experience!

Away from the ranch: Perfect for day trips to explore Croatia

• Nikola Tesla's birthplace and museum, an easy 20km bike ride from the ranch. Tesla practiced yoga, meditation, visualization and found inspiration for his work in the Velebit Mountain.
• Plitvice Lakes (Croatia's most famous National Park with waterfalls and colourful mineral lakes), Zadar (‘the most beautiful sunsets in the world’ according to Alfred Hitchcock), Adriatic Coast (55km) swimming and towns, and Zagreb, all within an hour or two drive.

+ Wildlife

Experience stunning mountain country on horseback or hiking: ancient forests, vast pastures and sky-reaching mountains with breathtaking views.

• Velebit Mountain is one of the last places in Croatia to have more animals than people!
• High chance of spotting a Brown Bear on a full day ride. Other wildlife includes Eurasian lynx, Balkan chamois, European mouflon, boar, red and roe deer, Grey Wolf, ibex, fox, coyote, and an array of birds including woodpecker, owl, hawk, eagle and vulture.
• Learn about the land, wildlife and flora of Croatia.

+ Weather

The Ranch is located in a mountain climate zone at 2,200 feet. “Moisture wicking” clothing is recommended so you can always add or remove a layer. Seasonal low / high temperatures are as follow:

• Spring: April: -5° / 16°; May 0° / 20° ; June 10° / 25°
• Summer: July: 18° / 30° ; August 12° / 26°
• Autumn: September 5° / 24° ; October 2° / 22°; November -5° / 20°

+ Guests

Transformative: Guests are not mere spectators but active participants in the dynamic experience. In the rolling pastures, people often unexpectedly encounter one thing: themselves. Absorb a wealth of knowledge and wisdom and leave some of your own behind.

Code of Conduct: All guests sign up to behaviour at the ranch incorporating ways to protect and limit guest impact on nature.

+ The Staff

Nature adventure meets personalized service: From wranglers to those in the kitchen, nature guides to owners and partners, the multi-talented individuals are more like family than staff.

Owner Bruce loves the adventure of inner and outer journeys, conscious understanding and sharing stories in the incredible setting of the ranch, especially around a campfire under a starry night.

Values, purpose and passion are reflected in all staff: To learn, to teach, to serve, to share, to simply enjoy life, people and nature, to find happiness and to be at one and peace with yourself and the world.

Today, Bruce, his wife Megi and team share its wonders with like-minded people from all around the world.

+ The Community

The Illyrian tribe Japods were original the original settlers of Velika Plana around 8,000 B.C.: some ruins can still be found in the valley. The valley population grew steadily until the 1960s peaking at about about 700 inhabitants, all small ranchers and farmers. Currently only 20 inhabitants remain in the valley, mainly elderly.

Employment & Education: The Retreat employs local men and women and, through various education-based naturalist and recreational offerings, contributes to the enhancement and global understanding of the Velebit Mountain Biosphere Reserve.

By staying at Linden Tree you actively contribute toward community development and nature conservation, funded by a portion of tourism profit, such as:

• Fostering youth employment through development of rural tourism.
• Prosperity in diversity - training elderly unemployed women in the community in sustainable agriculture.

The projects have been so successful, Linden Tree has been asked by Croatian government to replicate them in other rural areas. And, the ranch has plenty of tasty local produce!

Take the wagon ride activity and you’ll make a stop at a local pub for traditional hospitality and visit the farm that produces the ranch’s dairy products and experience organic farming first hand.

Linden Tree demonstrates Earth Changers values of Adventure, Connection and Integrity, through inner and outer journeys with the self and others.

+ Environmental Sustainability

“Consciousness is a priority across the board for all decision making. It’s about how it all relates and impacts.” – Bruce Yerkovich, Owner

Protected Area: Operating within Velebit National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978 and a Natura 2000 area, means governance in an environmentally sensitive manner which forms the backbone of all policies and sustainable development.

Ranch area: There are 50 acres of ranch land which encompass mountains, soft hills, meadows, pastures, forest, a mountain-fed creek, gravel roads, forest paths as well as a mile of frontage along Ricina River, a protected fishery that flows into the Kruscica Lake.

Bio-diversity: There’s three separate micro-climates and more than 1,800 plant species and sub-species have been identified in the Velebit area, 79 endemic.

Conservation: Nature conservation is an important product of ranch management practices. Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch works hand-in-hand with several conservation organizations, as well as local, regional and federal government in developing sustainable, environmentally responsible programs, for example Open Land Restoration, Bear Habitat Mapping and other wildlife studies.

Zoning: The ranch is zoned into a no-interfering only-observing conservation area, balanced with areas for horse facilities and grazing.

Impacts: All land and lake adventures and activities aim to minimize the environmental impacts, such as by using designated trails to lessen the Park footprint. Operations are low-impact: Composting and recycling governs food and beverages; waste water is filtered, some grey water for gardens that produce excellent fruits; other reusable in the heating system, along with high efficiency wood furnaces, using dead or diseased plants, create hot water and heat buildings.

Actions are informed by experiences as well as perspectives from ecologists, botanists, and biologists to build whole ecosystem knowledge and result in a healthier, more stable and more productive micro-ecosystem that in turn contributes to the health of the ranch and the valley as a whole.

+ Social Sustainability

Local Benefits: Local people benefit from visitors staying in the beautiful dwellings: Wood for building doors, windows and furniture was sourced at the ranch as part of sustainable forestry program, and built in collaboration with local carpenter. Carpets, decors and construction materials are made by local artists and craftspeople and sourced in the valley, thereby contributing to the continuous evolution of local cultural skills and knowledge.

Heritage and Local Culture All adventures and activities are interpretive to foster deep guest connection with local heritage and legends, educating them about sustainable ways the local community lives by sharing history and culture of the region, organizing visits to local farms and archaeological sites in the valley, and supporting preservation of traditional cultural values of local artisans, people and businesses.

Cultural Exchange: Bringing together locals and guests breaks down cultural barriers and creates long lasting and thought-provoking memories.

+ Economic Sustainability

Financial contribution An important part of what you pay is committed to remaining a highly sustainable and responsible tourism destination. Linden Tree reinvests 10% of all profits in different conservation, community development and education programs they run or sponsor in the area.

Employee support Linden Tree Retreat & Ranch also has an employee profit-sharing plan as an additional way of ensuring its benefit to the local community and continually enhancing its socially responsible enterprise.