Croatia’s continental tourism gets boost with opening of first major hotel in Požega

(Photo: Požega-Slavonia County)

A new chapter in the development of continental tourism in Croatia began this week with the official opening of the Zlatni Lug Hotel in Požega.

The €4 million investment marks the opening of the first hotel of this capacity in the city and is being seen as an important step forward for tourism and economic development in Požega and the wider Požega-Slavonia County.

The project was realised with support from Croatia’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan and includes not only hotel accommodation but also facilities aimed at supporting active and sustainable tourism.

These include sports grounds and amenities designed to attract guests throughout the year.

The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of national, regional and local government, along with project partners, business representatives and guests.

(Photo: Požega-Slavonia County)

In a symbolic gesture, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was carried out by the youngest members of the Pandžić family, highlighting the family’s long-standing connection to the project, which has been developing over several decades.

Hotel owner Thomas Heinz Pandžić said the opening was the result of years of work, dedication and family vision.

He thanked everyone involved in the project and paid special tribute to his family, with whom he began the Zlatni Lug story in 1994.

(Photo: Požega-Slavonia County)

“We can proudly say today that we have created a project that will remain for future generations and contribute to the development of our region,” Pandžić said.

Leo Pandžić, manager of Zlatni Lug, said the hotel represents more than just a new tourism investment.

He said the aim was to create a space where guests could experience the authenticity of Slavonia and feel welcomed throughout their stay.

With a total capacity of 106 beds, the hotel significantly expands accommodation options in Požega and is expected to support further tourism and business growth in the area.

(Photo: Požega-Slavonia County)

Požega Mayor Borislav Miličević described the opening as a historic moment for the city, saying the project demonstrates the city’s potential for stronger development in continental tourism.

Požega-Slavonia County Prefect Antonija Jozić said recent years have seen major investment in tourism, infrastructure and the promotion of cultural and natural heritage across the county, while noting that the lack of larger accommodation facilities had previously been one of the key challenges.

Robert Pende, Director at Croatia’s Ministry of Tourism and Sport, said Zlatni Lug was an example of successful continental tourism development made possible through investments supported by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

(Photo: Požega-Slavonia County)

Member of the European Parliament Nikolina Brnjac also attended the opening and stressed the importance of year-round continental tourism in creating jobs and supporting wider economic sectors.

The opening of Zlatni Lug is expected to strengthen Požega’s position as an emerging continental tourism destination while contributing to new employment opportunities and broader economic growth in the region.