Cowboys and old crafts: A story from one of Croatia’s most unusual ethno estates

by croatiaweek
October 30, 2025
in Travel

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

by Paulina Mlinarić

If you think Podravina is only about peaceful fields, gentle forests, and art galleries, think again.

Just fifteen minutes from Koprivnica lies the small village of Hlebine, home to one of the region’s most unique attractions, the “Stari zanati” (Old Crafts) Ethno Estate, where tradition, creativity, and a hint of cowboy spirit come together in perfect harmony.

Upon entering the estate, visitors exchange euros for colts, the local currency used to buy everything from homemade štrukli and Čegertuša brandy to handcrafted souvenirs and earrings made from deer antler.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

You can even have your name engraved on an iron horseshoe for good luck (€5), or pick up a pair of hand-carved antler earrings (€10), crafted before your eyes in just twenty minutes.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

For those seeking authentic craftsmanship, hand-forged knives with antler handles are also on offer.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

Behind this creative concept stands Tihomir Želimorski, who, together with his family, built this remarkable blend of traditional crafts and Western flair.

Tihomir Želimorski (Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

Spanning over 2.5 hectares, the estate offers a hands-on experience of heritage, where you can learn blacksmithing, pottery, basket weaving, or wood carving.

The Želimorski family are not just guardians of old trades; they are creators of lasting memories.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

Both children and adults can take part in up to 15 different workshops, from baking bread in a wood-fired oven and measuring flour on vintage scales, to painting on canvas, pottery, and making wooden toys.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

Kids leave with their own artwork and postcards, while adults leave with smiles, and perhaps a touch of nostalgia for simpler times.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

For the youngest guests, there are plenty of fun activities such as kite-flying, gardening, and wreath-making.

There’s no internet here, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature, family, and genuine experiences, far removed from the rush of everyday life.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

A Cowboy Village Straight Out of a Film

But “Stari zanati” is more than an ethno estate, it’s an open-air film set. The property has its own Saloon, bank, post office, jail, and sheriff’s office, creating the feel of a real frontier town.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

Add to that a mechanical bull, a wooden train, and even a pirate ship currently being built by Tihomir’s son, Ervin, and it’s clear why families keep coming back year after year.

Each workshop and attraction brings visitors closer to a sense of joy in the simple things, something that feels increasingly rare today.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

Every July, the estate transforms into “Colt City” for its annual Country Weekend.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

The place comes alive with cowboys and Native Americans, mock shootouts, dance, laughter, and the aroma of homemade food, a real-life movie scene right in rural Podravina.

(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)

A special Country-themed Advent event is also held each winter, bringing a touch of cowboy magic to the festive season.

Interestingly, this is also when American visitors most often arrive. After hearing about Hlebine during their Croatian holidays, many stop by out of curiosity, and end up enchanted.