Homer – Hidden Jewel, View of Omladinsko Lake

📍 Location: Above Omladinsko Lake, along the historic Lujzijana road, near Lokve

Swap sea salt for pine-scented air and discover a peaceful viewpoint overlooking turquoise Omladinsko or Lokvarsko Lake, as the locals know it. This is one of those roadside gems. Nestled along the D3 road near Lokve, this viewpoint opens up to sweeping views of the Gorski Kotar hills, forested valleys, and distant mountains.

If you are driving from Dalmatia (Split, Zadar, Šibenik), take the A1 north, exit near Novi Vinodolski, and follow the smaller inland roads through hills and forests toward Lokve and Homer. From Istria (Pula, Rovinj, Poreč)
move towards Rijeka and then switch from the coastal E65 road to the quieter inland route through Gorski Kotar. From Zagreb you need to take the A6 toward Rijeka, exit near Fužine and continue on the scenic D3 toward
Omladinsko Jezero Lake Panoramic Point. Nestled in Gorski Kotar, this stop lies right above the lake on the old road connecting Rijeka to Karlovac. A small parking bay and a short 20 meteres walk lead to the edge where the view opens up. The terrain is flat, wheelchair-friendly, and ideal for families seeking a calm, scenic escape.

Just 350 meters towards Rijeka, there is a more famous viewpoint, but that makes this place even more special. It has fewer visitors, but also fewer additional facilities - it would be best to visit both!

🔭 What You’ll See

💧 Omladinsko Lake: A deep blue, glassy basin surrounded by dense pine forests, reflecting the sky like a mirror.

⛰️ Green Peaks of Gorski Kotar: Evergreen slopes change hues with light, glowing soft at sunrise and golden by sunset.

🚴 Local Life: Spot kayakers, forest wildlife, and cyclists weaving up the old scenic route.

⏰ Best Time to Visit

• 🌅 Early Morning: Mist rises off the lake, creating magical reflections.
• 🌇 Late Afternoon: Warm light paints the forest and cliffs gold. Summer weekends may be livelier but still serene.

💡 Why Visit?

No restaurants, no fences, no crowds — only pine-scented air and the hum of the forest. 🌲 Whether you’re driving inland or escaping the coast, Homer offers a rare chance to feel the wild heart of Gorski Kotar in total tranquility. ✨