Croatian Family Builds Donkey Farm, Offers Unique Rural Tourism Experience

In the small Croatian village of Šmrika, the Lucić family has turned a passion for donkeys into a unique rural tourism business. What began with the arrival of two donkeys for their twins' birthday has blossomed into OPG Suzi, a farm now home to 24 Primorje-Dinaric donkeys, a protected breed.

Sussane Lucić, the farm's owner, explains that their venture blends agriculture with education and rural tourism. Visitors can experience farm life firsthand, learning about the importance of tradition and sustainable living. The farm also focuses on educational activities highlighting the significance of conserving endangered indigenous animals and rural heritage.

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My parents looked for a better life in Germany, and I wanted to go to Croatia. I did have one condition, though, that we be by the sea. We put out an ad looking for land and ended up in Šmrika.

The family's journey began with a desire for a better life, leading Sussane and her husband Zvonko from Germany to Croatia. They found a neglected property and, with Zvonko's construction expertise, transformed it into a 5.5-hectare farm featuring their home, guest apartments, and a swimming pool.

OPG Suzi has received support through EU projects, enabling them to expand their operations. Sussane manages the farm with her twin sons, Mihael and Marko, who handle milking and other tasks. Their younger daughter, Iva, assists with administration, and their son Ilija, a pastry chef, also contributes. Retired Zvonko enjoys his well-deserved rest while the family continues to grow their unique agricultural enterprise.

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We have combined agriculture, education, and rural tourism, so visitors, in direct contact with animals, get to know rural life, the importance of preserving tradition and a sustainable way of life, while through educational activities we draw attention to the importance of preserving endangered indigenous animals and rural heritage.