This is the first in a series of interviews we will present as part of “Stories behind GREEN doors.” This week, we meet Ana, the owner of a charming holiday home located on the peaceful Cvetković Hill. With a love for nature and great effort, Ana, together with her family, has transformed a family weekend house into a true oasis of peace and enjoyment. We spoke with Ana about her passion for tourism, the challenges, and the joys of managing a holiday home. Here’s what she shared with us.
Can you tell us something about yourself?
I am Ana, a mother of three children and employed at a research agency in Zagreb. I spend my free time at our holiday home, Šumska idila, where I enjoy nature, forest walks, and cooking. I love exploring new recipes, and when it’s the season of porcini mushrooms and chestnuts, there’s no better activity than walking through the forest.
What inspired you to start renting out a holiday home?
My husband inherited an old wooden house that has been in his family for generations. Instead of selling it, we decided to renovate it and turn it into something special. Since I studied tourism management, I have always had a love for tourism. And so we embarked on this project – it was an investment, but also an opportunity to share this beautiful place with others. The renovation lasted nearly three years, and today it is our oasis of peace. I am particularly thrilled by the calm and quiet in the evenings, and the view of the forest always brings tranquility.
Can you describe your holiday home and property?
The property extends over almost 3,000 m², of which 1,000 m² is fenced, making it perfect for guests with pets. There are two buildings on the property. The first is a wooden house with rustic charm, including a bedroom and a living room with an electric fireplace. Guests love spending most of their time on the spacious covered terrace. The second, additional building is my favorite feature – a terrace with a large barbecue area and a wellness zone. There, you’ll find a sauna and an outdoor jacuzzi with a forest view, for complete relaxation and enjoyment.
How would you describe your location?
Cvetković Hill is a small village with only about twenty residents, just a 30-minute drive from Zagreb or Velika Gorica. Besides the beautiful nature, the place has its own cultural heritage – the Chapel of St. Roch from 1888. For those who enjoy water activities, the Kupa River and Pokupsko beach are only 15 minutes away, and nearby you can also find excursion spots such as Krašograd and Ključić Hill.
What kind of experience do you want to offer your guests?
I strive to ensure that every guest feels warmly welcomed and at home. The holiday home must be clean, comfortable, and equipped with everything necessary to make the stay as pleasant as possible. I am always available for questions and assistance, but I respect my guests’ privacy. The greatest joy for me is seeing guests relaxed and satisfied. My mission is to ensure that every detail in the house is perfect and that the guest experience, from booking to departure, is unforgettable.
What are your plans for the future?
We are currently working on additional amenities to enhance the stay experience. Soon, we will install a large swing in the yard, and we are always thinking about new ideas for projects and improvements. We enjoy every step of this process because we balance work and enjoyment. For us, this is not just a business, but an opportunity for growth, creativity, and creating a space where we ourselves love to relax.
Do you have any interesting or fun stories to share with us?
Most of the furniture and details in the house are made of wood, a result of my husband’s handcrafting. The wood we used comes from local forests, and this handcrafted work adds an extra sense of authenticity and sustainability. All of this gives the house a special charm, and I think guests notice that.
What would you say to potential guests?
Šumska idila offers a true escape from everyday life. Here you can enjoy a peaceful environment, an electric fireplace, a sauna, and a jacuzzi with a forest view. Our home is perfect for couples or families who want a relaxing weekend away from the city hustle. In everything we do, we combine nature and our effort to create a retreat for rest and enjoyment.
Ana and her family have created a space that radiates nature, peace, and hospitality. Šumska idila is not just a holiday home but a place where guests can experience an authentic stay in the heart of nature, far from noise and bustle. If you are looking for a getaway with a touch of luxury in a rustic setting, this is a location worth visiting.
We hope you enjoyed meeting Ana and her beautiful Šumska idila. If you are looking for a place for a peaceful and relaxing holiday, you can book your stay via the link and enjoy this green oasis.
Next Friday, we will bring you the story of a new rental owner and another magical holiday home from our GREEN destination. Follow us and discover more hidden corners that will inspire your next trip!