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Not far from Zagreb, in Velika Gorica, lies a very interesting private estate that has been developing over the last ten years as a space for various types of events. Although many people first associate Ranch Kurilovec with weddings and private celebrations, its area, infrastructure and flexibility are increasingly positioning it as an appealing location for business events. Across the estate’s 5.5 hectares, it is possible to combine a conference or presentation section with workshops, team building, lunch, networking or an evening gathering, all without needing to change location.
Even a quick tour of the estate highlights one of its main advantages – it is not just a single space, but a large complex of varied ambiances that can be linked together depending on the event concept. The hosts approach organisation in a very direct and flexible manner, placing strong emphasis on detail and atmosphere.
The ranch is family-owned, and today's venue is the result of a decades-long transformation of a once-neglected plot of land. The Stepanić family bought the land in 1989, cleared it of waste and gradually planted much of the greenery seen today. The first building was erected in 1995, whilst the ranch's development over the years has included a barn, a horse boarding facility and a riding school. Since 2014, when a family wedding was held there, the space has increasingly opened its doors to different types of events.
Hall for meetings, meadow for team building
The main indoor space consists of a 330 m² hall with no columns and a ceiling height of around five metres. As a former stable, it has retained part of that ranch-style design. Natural light streams in through large glass walls that open onto outdoor terraces, and the space can be divided into two separate sections of approximately 200 and 130 m². Depending on the setup, it accommodates up to 200 people in a seated layout, 250 in theatre format and 300 for cocktail receptions.
Adjacent to the hall is a glazed winter garden, which can serve as a lounge, a space for coffee breaks and networking, or a registration area. The charm of this space is enhanced by views of the green woodland and an interior design featuring interesting pieces of restored furniture.
For smaller groups, the Green House (designed for up to 50 people) and the Blue House (for up to 40 people) are available. These can function as standalone meeting spaces, breakout zones, hospitality suites or backstage areas. Equipped with sound systems, billiards, table football, darts, barbecues and professional refrigerators, they are fully heated to allow year-round use.
The family character is evident throughout the spaces. Antiques and elements from the original estate have been restored and combined with modern features, creating an ambiance that is simultaneously rustic, industrial and distinctly cosy. Rather than offering a uniform event venue, different zones possess their own individual character, giving organisers plenty of scope to build the right mood for their event.
However, the greatest potential for business events actually lies outside the buildings. The outdoor grounds cover approximately 55,000 square metres and can be used for outdoor activities, team building, product launches, hospitality zones and various production setups. Large marquees capable of hosting more than 1,000 guests can also be erected on the grounds.
Such a layout is particularly suited to team building programmes. Organised directly by the ranch, the more relaxed Outdoor Light concept features football, badminton, volleyball, dodgeball, cornhole, archery, billiards and table football for groups of 20 to 200 people. For groups of up to 80 participants, a structured Outdoor Challenge offers hosted team competitions, scoring systems and a series of activities including archery, horseshoe pitching, mini Olympics, wheelbarrow races and tug-of-war. For larger or more intricate programmes, they collaborate with external team building agencies.
This opens up the possibility of a format where participants complete a meeting or workshop in the hall in the morning, spend their break amongst the greenery, take part in team building after lunch, and wrap up the day with dinner, music and socialising at the exact same location.
Flexibility without complicated logistics
The logistical side is equally important for organisers. The ranch is located roughly 20 minutes from the centre of Zagreb, 15 minutes from the airport and five minutes from the Buzin junction. On-site parking is available for around 300 cars, alongside dedicated space for coaches and access for delivery and production vehicles.
Regarding technical equipment, the rental fee includes a projector and screen, flipchart, PA system and microphones, high-speed internet and basic decorative lighting. For more demanding productions, additional staging, lighting, LED screens, enhanced sound systems, DJs or live bands, photographers, videographers, decor, large marquees, lounge setups and shuttle transport can all be arranged.
Catering is another vital operational aspect. The ranch highlights Flamingo Catering as a trusted partner for business events, tailored to match the format and headcount of each gathering. Available formats range from coffee breaks and finger food to buffets, show cooking and on-site barbecues.
For the meetings industry, the most compelling element may well be the ability to transform a meeting, training session or presentation into an all-day event packed with varied experiences – from focused work and networking to outdoor activities and relaxed socialising. It is precisely this change of pace, paired with a setting far removed from a conventional conference room, that helps ensure participants remember the event long after returning to their desks.
