Activities
ACTIVITIES AT MERAKI
Slow days, small wonders. Simple experiences.
At Meraki, we believe in simple joys. Watching the fire. Walking barefoot through the nature. Making something with your hands. Whether you join a workshop, explore the rivers, every day is an invitation to reconnect.
WORKSHOPS
Throughout the season, we host relaxed, hands-on workshops that connect you with nature, creativity and yourself.
You might join:
– Wild herb walks and herbal tea making
– Foraging and learning about edible plants
– Ceramics sessions by the fire
– Soap or natural cosmetics making
– Painting & creativity classes
Children are welcome to join — it’s simply part of life at Meraki.
PICNIC BASKETS & SPECIAL MOMENTS
Planning a romantic day out or a slow afternoon in nature?
Rent a picnic basket filled with homemade, organic food, your choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, and local treats. Whether you’re off to the river or a meadow, we’ll include a map with our favourite hidden picnic spots.
Price per basket:
€25 per adult and €10 per child
Please order at least 2 days in advance.
PHOTOSHOOT WITH MARIT
Capture your time at Meraki with a personal photoshoot by founder and international wedding photographer Marit de la Vera.
Whether you’re here with your family, your partner or just yourself, Marit creates light, poetic portraits in the heart of nature.
You can see her photography at www.maritdelavera.com and on her Instagram page.
Available sessions:
– Family moments – €175
– Couple shoots or elopements – from €175
– Empowering solo portraits – €175
GUIDED TOURS
Explore the natural and cultural treasures of the region with licensed local guide
Dorotea Starsina. Tours start at Meraki (Vodena Draga 26) and are available in English or Croatian. The price is per group (1-10 persons).
Available tours:
● Karlovac – city of parks, rivers and history
Drive: 25 min | €80 (2 hours)
● Ozalj Castle – Castle perched above the Kupa River
Drive: 30 min | €80 (2 hours)
● Novigrad na Dobri – romantic castle ruins
Drive: 15 min | €40 (1 hour)
● Ogulin – town of fairy tales and legends
Drive: 40 min | €100 (2.5 hours)
Other destinations, like Plitvice National Park are also possible—just reach out.
SCENIC HIKING, BIKING & NATURAL WONDERS
The trails around Vodena Draga are perfect for outdoor adventures. Walk along the Dobra River, explore the hills and wildflower meadows, or cycle the peaceful Karlovac Forest Loop.
Hike the Družac Mountain Trail for panoramic views, or visit local caves and springs—where fresh, clean water flows from deep underground. Some of Europe’s purest drinking water runs right through this region.
Rentals available at Meraki:
– E-bike: €35/day
– SUP board: €15/day
– Guided e-bike tour: on request
HISTORY & CULTURE
Just a short drive from Meraki you’ll find places full of stories:
● Frankopan Castle in Bosiljevo – an abandoned medieval castle
● Kino Edison – an art cinema, and the oldest cinema of Croatia
● Karlovac Friday Flea Market – second hand & vintage finds and handmade goods
● Nikola Tesla Experience Center
The UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park are 80 km away— this is definitely an unforgettable day trip.
LOCAL FLAVOURS, RESTAURANTS & HOMEGROWN GOODS
We love sharing our favourite local finds — cheese, honey, herbal balms and fresh vegetables. Some are available right here on site at Meraki, others come straight from nearby farmers.
We have a list of small farms and local makers, so if you’d like to visit them or take something home, we’ll happily point you their way.
Our restaurant tips:
– Mrežnica Kuća (Zvecaj)
– Kaštel Bistro (Karlovac)
– Zeleni Kut (Generalski Stol)
– Chandra (Karlovac)
– Motel Dobra (Jarce Polje)
– Restaurant DP (Zvecaj)
WATER ADVENTURES
With four rivers nearby, water is never far away. Swim in clear rivers, paddle a SUP, go rafting — or simply dip your toes in with the kids.
You can rent SUP’s here at Meraki or from nearby spots. We’ll happily share our favourite swimming places.
If you want to go rafting we can recommend you the company Terra Croatica.
RELAXATION
Meraki is a place to slow down. Stretch in the morning sun, read in a hammock, or nap under the trees. There’s nothing you need to do — just be.
We also work with two local women who run their own businesses offering facials and massages. If you’re interested, send us a message and we’ll connect you.
RETREATS AT MERAKI
Twice a year, we host small, quiet retreats with themes like:
– Slow living
– Foraging & seasonal connection
These days are gentle and grounding — time to slow down, connect with nature, and feel restored.
Meraki is also available to hire for your own small retreat or gathering. Whether you’re guiding a group in yoga, mindfulness, nature connection or another creative practice, our place offers the peace and space to make it special.
