We discovered Rose Hip Hill, an organic farm on the hill near Breznica, interviewing Božica Zezelj, the owner
Discover an eco-friendly retreat in a corner of paradise in Breznica in Croatia! Rose Hip Hill Holiday House is an organic farm surrounded by greenery in Breznica, not far from Varaždin (30km) and Zagreb (50km). In this oasis of tranquility you will be surrounded by the sounds of nature and the enveloping scents of damask roses that adorn the hill.
Božica Zezelj, the owner of Rose Hip Hil, passionately embraced ecological principles and a constant commitment to eco-sustainability. In this, which is one of the first organic farms in Croatia, every detail – from energy efficient design to sustainable materials – has been taken care of with deep respect for the environment. For this reason, the holiday experience is truly unique and regenerating, in contact with nature. We interviewed Božica, that’s what she shared with us.
Could you tell us something about the story of Rose Hip Hill Hollday House
Rose Hip Hill is a family-owned fruit farm that was among the first in Croatia to receive an organic certification for its products.
The estate has been in the family for six generations, and we have inherited a love for fruit cultivation, nature, and coexistence with it from our ancestors. That’s why ecological sustainability is not just a practice but a way of life and tradition for us. Perched on a hill surrounded by forests, our location is a mere 2 km from the nearest settlement. Surprisingly, we are conveniently less than 35 km from Zagreb (50 km from the center) and a short 30 km from the baroque city of Varaždin.
What sustainability practices have you undertaken?
We have adopted various sustainability practices throughout years, the latest one being solar energy panels. Other initiatives include energy-efficient lighting, water conservation measures, waste reduction and recycling programs and sourcing local, organic products.
What experiences do your guests enjoy more?
To our guests we offer unique rose experience, Guest experiences vary, but eco-friendly accommodations often highlight nature-based activities, guided eco-tours, educational programs on sustainability, and farm-to-table dining experiences.
Guests can actively participate in fruit and rose harvesting as well as the processing of the harvest. We produce jams, rose hydrosols, teas, and juices, along with harvesting wild medicinal herbs and berries such as wild strawberries and blackberries.
What green itineraries do you most recommend to your guests?
Guided exploring nearby natural attractions, participating in eco-friendly activities such as hiking or bird watching, and visiting local sustainable businesses. Recommendations may include transportation options that minimize the carbon footprint, like biking, walking, or using electric vehicles.
What does it mean for you to be a part of the Ecobnb community?
Being part of the Ecobnb community means above all responsibility and choice of eco-sustainable practices in the hospitality industry. This community brings together accommodations that prioritize sustainability, sharing knowledge and resources to promote eco-friendly tourism. Membership often involves adhering to specific criteria and standards related to environmental responsibility.
We thank Božica for the interview and invite you to discover Rose Hip Hill, the perfect place to immerse yourself in the colors, flavors and scents of nature!
