Basic information
Željava Airbase
unnamed road, 53233 Željava, Croatia
15.5 miles (25 km)
Car
25-30 min
The host organizes site tours
Sightseeing, photography, organized guided tours
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accommodation in Guest House Rustico
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a table at Bistro Vila Velebita
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Aerodrom Željava – by Secret Croatia

Željava Airbase

Željava Airbase – mysterious military base on the Croatian-BiH border

Right on the border between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, beneath Plješevica hill, lies Željava Airbase, one of the most fascinating military installations from the era of former Yugoslavia. This underground military base, also known by the code name Object 505, was one of the largest and most expensive military projects in Europe, and today attracts adventurers, historians, and military enthusiasts from around the world.

 

History of Željava Airbase

Built between 1957 and 1965, Željava Airbase was a strategic air base of the Yugoslav People’s Army (JNA). The project cost over $6 billion (in today’s value) and contained five underground tunnels nearly 3.5 kilometers long, designed to withstand a nuclear attack.

The base could accommodate up to 60 MiG-21 fighter aircraft, and the ventilation system, electrical network, and underground facilities were so advanced that they enabled independent operation for months without coming to the surface.

 

What you can see today at Željava Airbase

Although the base was disabled and partially destroyed by explosions during the Homeland War, today you can explore its impressive runways and entrances to the underground tunnels. The most famous is main entrance 1, which once concealed combat aircraft ready for takeoff.

At the site, there is also an abandoned Douglas C-47 Skytrain aircraft, a popular photo subject for visitors. In the surrounding area, you can see remnants of auxiliary buildings, the control tower, and kilometer-long runways now used by photography enthusiasts, filmmakers, and explorers.

Note: Entering the tunnels is neither safe nor officially permitted due to possible landmines, unstable structures, and lack of lighting.

 

How to get to Željava Airbase

Željava Airbase is located about 30 minutes’ drive from Guest House Rustico in Rudanovac. The route leads through picturesque landscape at the foot of Plješevica mountain.

 

Stay at Guest House Rustico

If you’re planning to visit Željava Airbase, Guest House Rustico is the perfect base for exploring this part of Lika and the border area with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Set in peaceful surroundings, it offers comfortable accommodation with traditional details and a warm welcome from the hosts.

After a full day of exploring, you can relax in the spacious yard or enjoy dinner at the nearby Bistro Vila Velebita, known for Lika specialties such as lamb under the bell, cheese strudel, and homemade brandies.

 

Activities and excursions from Rudanovac

Staying at Guest House Rustico opens up opportunities for diverse activities:

 

Tips for visitors
  • Clothing and footwear: Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Safety: Do not enter the tunnels due to the danger of collapse and unexploded ordnance.
  • Photography: Željava Airbase is one of the best locations in the region for capturing dramatic photographs.
  • Weather conditions: The best time to visit is spring or fall, when there is no excessive heat or snow.

 

Željava Airbase is a fascinating destination for anyone wanting to experience a blend of military history, mystery, and impressive engineering architecture. Located in a unique position between two countries, it offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

By staying at Guest House Rustico and enjoying the local specialties of Bistro Vila Velebita, you ensure the perfect combination of adventure, history, and gastronomic pleasure.

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