Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, Plitvice Lakes National Park lies in the heart of Croatia’s mountainous Lika region. With its 16 lakes and numerous waterfalls, it is now one of the country’s most iconic natural sites.
On the Way to Plitvice
The journey begins with a departure from Zagreb. For almost two hours, we travel through beautiful places such as Karlovac and Slunj. There is no need to see the park sign to know that we are getting close: the winding roads, endless trees and uphill stretches all indicate that we are approaching one of the most beautiful places in Croatia.
Once we get off the bus, the atmosphere is striking. Croatia’s first national park seems to immediately transport us into another world. We choose a route that allows us to explore the entire site and see all the lakes, for around five hours of pure enjoyment.
We begin our discovery by taking the small shuttle that takes us to the very top of the park. Its huge windows allow us to immerse ourselves in the heart of the forests. There are a few moments of fear for those who are afraid of heights: as we climb, we can look down and see the beauty of the park unfolding beneath our feet.
Once we arrive, a feeling of serenity washes over me. I think many visitors share it: we feel closer to what nature has to offer. And that is where paradise begins…
When Green Becomes the Landscape
In this park, we never really feel alone. The signs are there to remind us where to go, while the birdsong and the sound of the waterfalls accompany us throughout the walk.
I am glad I thought to bring a good pair of trainers. The only problem is that they have fairly flat soles and, on some slopes, they can slip slightly. So I would advise you to be careful.
After a few minutes of walking, we find ourselves standing in front of a lake. The landscape is striking. The route we have taken allows us to discover the upper lakes first, including Okrugljak, Vir and Galovac.
If we were in a painting, the colours would be mostly green. The first lakes are all tinged with it, creating a beautiful palette of green.
On the Blue Waters of Plitvice
The walk continues aboard an electric boat. For around twenty minutes, we cross Lake Kozjak, with its stunning blue waters. The crossing is peaceful. Relaxing, it gives us the feeling of being privileged, as if we were becoming one with this place. The Plitvice Lakes are much more than an Instagrammable destination: they reveal a pristine natural environment. Here, you simply realise how remarkable nature can be.
After getting off the boat, we continue our journey along the wooden walkways that run through the park. These paths, which are our only barrier between us and the water, make us feel as though we are right in the heart of the waterfalls.
We no longer know where to look: to the left, to the right, everything catches our eye. Streams, waterfalls, vegetation… with every step, the landscape changes.
The Park’s Highlights
But one place particularly stays with us: the Great Waterfall, or Veliki Slap. When we see it from a distance, it is already impressive, but when we reach its foot, this iconic landmark of the park mainly makes us realise just how small we are compared with nature.
All around us, the lakes are surrounded by cliffs and a vast forest. The lush vegetation and aquatic landscapes give the place an almost surreal atmosphere. I am convinced that no words or photographs can truly reveal the beauty of this place. You have to see it, feel it and listen to it to believe it.
A Few Tips Before You Go
Check the weather forecast carefully and, if possible, start your visit early in the day. The walk lasts several hours and some sections can be more demanding. Near the lakes, and as we descend further, some areas are also cooler, with occasional drafts.
To make the most of your visit and have time to take photographs, try to visit during the week and, if possible, outside the school holidays. You may benefit from a preferential rate and, above all, avoid large crowds. It is also worth checking in advance which route best suits your interests and the amount of time you have available.
The park changes with the seasons, so do not hesitate to discover it at another time of year. In autumn, the surrounding forests take on coppery hues. In winter, the frozen lakes create a completely different spectacle.
A Paradise to Protect
Make no mistake: despite the temptation of the water, swimming in the lakes is forbidden. You will probably come across animals during your visit, but be careful: feeding them is prohibited. Simply observing them in their natural environment is already a wonderful experience. According to the guides, however, animals are harder to spot during the day and are more likely to appear when the park becomes quieter.
You may find yourself face-to-face with a bird whose plumage takes your breath away. Dragonflies may land on your shoulder and, through the crystal-clear waters, you may also catch sight of different species of fish.
It is important to respect this environment: you are not allowed to pick plants or take natural “souvenirs” with you. It is also forbidden to leave the marked trails, both for your own safety and to protect the area.
The cleanliness of the site is also striking throughout the walk. You will not see rubbish along the trails or in the natural areas. Waste containers are available throughout the park, so remember to use them and leave the place as clean as you found it.
The beauty of Plitvice also lies in this preserved natural environment and in respecting these rules.
Rastoke, the Little Plitvice
After a long day of walking, we could not leave without stopping in the charming town of Rastoke, located around 30 km away. Nicknamed “Little Plitvice”, it looks as though it has come straight out of a fairy tale.
And there is a reason for the name: fairies are an integral part of Rastoke’s history. According to legend, these creatures gathered around the Vilina kosa waterfall, whose name means “Fairy’s Hair”. Despite the passing of time, the story still seems to flow through the streams.
The old watermills, the Slunjčica River flowing into the Korana River, carried along by its many waterfalls, the water running beneath the bridges, and the magnificent heart-shaped arch all make us want to stop and take in the surroundings.
The water is so clear that it almost seems unreal. But what stands out to us most is the heart-shaped arch, which delights tourists, myself included, as I want to capture this almost timeless moment.
This stop is the perfect way to complete the day and makes us realise just how many treasures Croatia still has to offer.
A Day of Nature and Discovery
If you too are a nature lover, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a destination well worth the trip. It is an excellent place for hiking, but also somewhere where you can take the time to enjoy a meal and stay in the heart of this region.
One thing is certain: Plitvice is a place that everyone should discover at least once.
