Kraljičin zdenac, Zagreb, Croatia, 10 000

## Overview Kraljičin zdenac ("The Queen's Well") is a beloved natural spring nestled on the slopes of Medvednica mountain — commonly known as Sljeme — the forested peak that rises directly above Croatia's capital city, Zagreb. Fed by the Kraljevec stream, this public drinking spring has long been a popular stop for hikers, trail runners, and nature lovers exploring the dense beech and oak forests of Medvednica Nature Park. Locals have channeled the spring water through a pipe to make it easier to fill bottles and drink on the go. The water has been reported to taste excellent — cool, clean, and refreshing — and the spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by visitors to the mountain. Its name, translating roughly to "The Queen's Well," hints at a storied past, though the exact origin of the name remains part of local lore. Situated at approximately 45.8794°N, 15.9407°E, Kraljičin zdenac sits at a pleasant elevation within the forest, making it an ideal waypoint on longer hikes up toward the Sljeme summit or along the many marked trails that crisscross Medvednica. ## Directions 1. From central Zagreb, head north toward Medvednica / Sljeme mountain via one of the well-marked forest roads or hiking trails that ascend from the city's northern neighborhoods (such as Šestine or Gracani). 2. Follow signs for Medvednica Nature Park and the Sljeme hiking trails. 3. The spring is located along the Kraljevec stream area on the mountain — look for the piped spring outlet, which is a well-known landmark among local hikers. 4. You can reach the spring by car, as there is road access nearby, but many visitors prefer to arrive on foot as part of a forest hike. 5. Use the GPS coordinates (45.879417, 15.940722) for precise navigation, especially if driving or using a mapping app. *Note: Exact trail routing may vary depending on your starting point. Local trail maps of Medvednica Nature Park show multiple paths passing near the spring.* ## What to Expect At Kraljičin zdenac you'll find a piped spring flowing from the Kraljevec stream, set within the lush, shaded forest of Medvednica. The water runs cool and has been widely praised by visitors for its fresh, clean taste — though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary and it is wise to assess conditions on the day of your visit. Nearby, there is a small lake that adds to the scenic charm of the area, as well as a mountain restaurant where hikers regularly stop to rest and enjoy a meal. This combination of natural spring water, a tranquil forest lake, and a welcoming eatery makes the spot a favorite gathering point on the mountain. The area is accessible by car, but it truly shines as a hiking destination. Medvednica's trails are well-marked and popular year-round, with the forest offering cool shade in summer and beautiful foliage in autumn. Expect to share the trail with fellow hikers, especially on weekends. The spring can be a perfect midpoint refreshment stop on a longer trek toward the Sljeme summit (1,035 m) or a destination in its own right for a shorter forest walk from Zagreb.