Visiting the National Parks of Croatia
Although it is the scenic beaches that attract many tourists to Croatia every year, it is the magnificent national parks that give the country that “wow” factor! Visit any of the National Parks of Croatia listed below and you will realize why they are the real draw-card to this amazing country!
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is an exquisite gift from nature, so it’s no wonder that it is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The park, the largest in Croatia, was founded in 1949 lies nestled between Ljesevica and Mala Kapela mountains. There are no less than 16 connected lakes in the park, ranging in colors from green, to blue, to azure,
some of them allowing you to see your reflection in them, they are so still. Plitvice is also famous for its stunning waterfalls that range from 25 meters, up to an astonishing 78 meters high!
Mljet National Park
Perfect for those who get enormous pleasure from spectacular scenery and a bit of adventure, Mljet National Park, situated in the South of Croatia on Mljet Island and set between two salt water lakes, offers swimming, hiking,
kayaking and of course, a place to relax and soak up the sun. There’s a small island in the middle of the larger of the two lakes where you can visit a bit of historical Croatia property in the form of a Benedictine monastery dating
back to the 12th century. The monastery is now a café and a great
place to enjoy a hot cup of coffee after a few hours of tiring kayaking.
Krka National Park
If you find waterfalls magical, then a visit to the Krka National Park is an absolute must! The waterfalls here are not simply for viewing though, because you can actually become part of the breathtaking, natural scenery by taking a swim in the pools below! The Skradinski Buk waterfall is the largest and most famous in the park and must not be missed! Also to be enjoyed at this park are a 14th century medieval fortress on the Krka River, an impressive museum, or a relaxing boat ride on the river to the Krka Monastery.
Risnjak National Park
Set on more than 6,400 hectares in the most mountainous region of Croatia, the Risnjak National Park can only be described as superb. Visit during winter or summer and you will have the opportunity to capture memorable photos of wild animals such as lynx, deer and bear. Risnjak National Park offers an extensive list of activities, one of which is fly fishing in the waters of the Kupa River. Buy a fishing ticket and you can spend the whole day
trying your luck at fly fishing.
Paklenica National Park
Two torrent gorges make up the Paklenica National Park, namely the Mala (Small) Paklenica and Velika (Big) Paklenica, which run parallel to each other. The park is a magnificent wilderness about a day away from most of the coastal towns, so the best thing to do to enjoy the experience completely, is to spend a few days here. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping, put on a pair of comfortable walking shoes and spend the day wandering along the more than 150 km paths and trails that are just waiting to be explored!
Visiting the national parks of Croatia will be like taking a trip to paradise, guaranteed!
