The tradition of celebrating Easter has always held special significance in Gorski Kotar. Easter marked important natural changes – the transition to a warmer and greener part of the year after months of cold winter dormancy. Like in other regions, Gorski Kotar has the tradition of decorating Easter eggs. For generations, eggs were decorated using whatever was available – red onions, tree bark, boiled violets, parsley, and more. After Easter breakfast, people would gather in front of the church to play various games, with those related to Easter eggs being particularly interesting, such as egg tapping or egg racing. This tradition has persisted to this day – eggs are tapped against each other, and the one whose egg remains intact gets to keep the broken one.
An essential part of the heritage and customs associated with Easter is the holiday table. Ham, boiled eggs, sweet and savory bread, cakes, spring onions, and horseradish are obligatory items on the Easter table. In this region, traditional braided bread is still baked, with colored boiled eggs inserted into it, as well as a raisin cake or “kuglof” and an original old-style Delnice bread, locally known as “župnik.” It is decorated with a wreath and small birds made of dough, always positioned to face the center of the bread. It was believed that this brought health and happiness to the family.
Gorski Kotar Filling, or “vezamsko nadelo,” is an essential part of the Easter table
In Gorski Kotar, you can find a delicacy specific to this region on the Easter table – Gorski Kotar Filling, or “goranski nadjev.” This traditional dish is prepared from boiled ham, fresh eggs, spring onions, bacon, bread, salt, and pepper. This mixture is stuffed into a smoked beef stomach, which is then cooked and served for Easter breakfast after cooling. “Budl,” “želuci,” “žeuci,” “želoci,” “nadeli,” “nadevi,” or “nadivi” are various names for this treat. In some places, besides the names, the recipes and some ingredients differ. However, what is common to all Gorski Kotar places is the rule that “vezamsko nadelo” is prepared on Holy Thursday or Good Friday.
Easter at Hotel Bitoraj
In addition to these culinary specialties, Gorski Kotar has much more to offer during Easter time. Visit Fužine, the most popular gastronomic destination in Gorski Kotar, and spend time in the fresh air, surrounded by nature awakening. Take a walk or bike ride around Lake Bajer or along one of the many forest trails. For a well-deserved lunch, stop by the famous Bitoraj restaurant, which has built its reputation by offering top-quality dishes inspired by traditional Gorski Kotar recipes. They also offer a special Easter package – a two-day or three-day stay at the hotel with a rich Easter breakfast, a visit to the Vrelo cave, and relaxation in the wellness center with views of the Gorski landscapes
