Zagreb is known for its many creeks, the most famous of which is Medveščak in the city center (though it is underground now). However, the west part of town is rich in water too, especially creeks, and Vrapčak (or Vrabečak, as some locals call it) is in the best shape, with a spruced-up promenade in the lower flow, bike lanes, children’s playgrounds and quiet benches.

Flowing down from the slopes of Medvednica in Vrapče neighbourhood, it cuts into concrete-filled residential neighborhoods of Malešnica, Špansko and Vrbani, where it slows down to reach its final destination, Jarun lake. On its way, it passes along several heavy-traffic streets, cafes, elegant glass skyscrapers, residential buildings, private and public gardens… If you’re up for an uphill walk, you can enjoy the sound of little waterfalls in the Upper Vrapče neighbourhood, where the combined force of water and surrounding woods of Medvednica mountain provide an excellent retreat in the scorching-hot summer heat. It is also home to many animal species, such as ducks, herons and even fish in its deeper, north flow.

Vrapčak is one of my favorite places to take a break from work, rewind and escape from the noise and the ever-spreading city landscape, and also a great place to reconnect with nature, even if only for a few minutes.