by croatiaweek
May 3, 2026
in
(Photo: Koprivnica–Križevci County)
The historic Inkey Castle in Rasinja in the northern Croatian Koprivnica–Križevci County is undergoing a major transformation, set to emerge as a modern wellness hotel and cultural destination, marking a significant step forward for tourism in continental Croatia.
Once a neglected and deteriorating structure, the castle is now the focus of an extensive restoration project aimed at blending heritage with high-value tourism.
The redevelopment is one of the most prominent tourism investments in Koprivnica-Križevci County, a region seeking to revitalise its largely untapped tourism potential.
More than 90 workers are currently engaged on-site, with construction works advancing across multiple phases. Activities include roofing, façade restoration, masonry, plastering, flooring and stonework.
Site manager Dejan Rajn told HRT this week that progress is on track, with the completion of the initial phase expected by the end of June. The goal is to breathe new life into the historic property while preserving its cultural significance.
(Photo: Općine Rasinja)
€14 million investment and job creation
The project is backed by approximately €14 million in funding from the European Union. Alongside physical restoration, a management structure for the future complex is also being developed.
A newly established company, Podravina i Prigorje, will oversee operations and destination management. The project carries an obligation to create at least 22 jobs, contributing to local economic growth.
County prefect Tomislav Golubić confirmed that the first phase will be completed this summer, with further development planned to follow. Full functionality of the castle complex is expected by the end of 2027.
(Photo: Općine Rasinja)
The redevelopment of Inkey Castle forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen tourism across the county. Plans include creating integrated travel packages and improving destination management, areas currently underdeveloped in the region.
Additional opportunities are being explored in nearby locations, including Lake Šoderica in Legrad municipality and the Kalnik mountain area, both of which hold untapped tourism potential.
The project is being delivered in partnership between the county, the Municipality of Rasinja, and the regional tourist board, with expert support from the PORA Development Agency.
Visual (Photo: Koprivnica–Križevci County)
As neighbouring regions such as Međimurje continue to outperform in tourism development, the Inkey Castle project represents a key infrastructure milestone. It highlights a growing shift towards leveraging cultural heritage as a driver of sustainable tourism growth in inland Croatia.
Once completed, Inkey Castle is expected to serve not only as a high-end wellness destination but also as a catalyst for wider regional development, positioning continental Croatia more strongly on the tourism map.
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