Discover the Natural Wonder of Plitvice Lakes National Park

updated on
July 7, 2023
Discover the Natural Wonder of Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nestled in the heart of Croatia lies the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park. With its pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery, it is no wonder why this park is one of the most visited destinations in Croatia.

If you're planning a luxury trip to Croatia, make sure to add Plitvice Lakes National Park to your itinerary. This park offers a unique experience that combines the beauty of nature with luxury amenities, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

History and Geography

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in the central part of Croatia, near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. It covers an area of 296.85 square kilometers and was established in 1949. The park is renowned for its unique karst hydrogeology, which features numerous lakes and waterfalls interconnected by a series of natural travertine barriers.

The park consists of 16 lakes, which are divided into two groups: the upper lakes and the lower lakes. The upper lakes are surrounded by dense forests, while the lower lakes are nestled in the midst of grassy meadows. The park is also home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including brown bears, wolves, and lynx.

Things to Do

Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and horseback riding. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a relaxing escape, there's something for everyone at this park.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities at Plitvice Lakes National Park, and for good reason. The park offers a range of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes that take you to some of the park's most stunning viewpoints. The trails are well-marked and maintained, making them accessible to hikers of all levels.

Another great way to experience the park is by cycling. The park has several cycling trails that take you through its beautiful landscape. The trails vary in difficulty, so whether you're a beginner or an experienced cyclist, you'll find a trail that suits your needs.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, kayaking is a great option. The park offers kayaking tours that take you through some of its most picturesque lakes and waterfalls. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the park's stunning scenery.

Finally, for those seeking a more relaxing experience, horseback riding is a great option. The park has several horseback riding tours that take you through its beautiful meadows and forests. This is a great way to experience the park's beauty while enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Luxury Accommodations

Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a range of luxury accommodations for visitors looking to indulge in the park's natural beauty. From luxury hotels to private luxury Villas, there's something for everyone at this park.

The Hotel Jezero is one of the most popular luxury hotels at Plitvice Lakes National Park. This hotel offers stunning views of the park's lakes and waterfalls, as well as a range of amenities, including a spa, restaurant, and bar.

Another great option is the Plitvice Holiday Resort, which offers a range of cozy cabins and villas nestled in the midst of the park's natural beauty. This resort offers a range of amenities, including a spa, restaurant, and outdoor pool.

If you're looking for a more unique experience, consider staying at the Ethno Houses Plitvica Selo. This resort offers a range of traditional Croatian houses that have been renovated to provide luxury accommodations. This is a great way to experience the park while immersing yourself in the local culture and history.

Restaurants and Cuisine

Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a range of dining options, from gourmet food to casual cafes. The cuisine in this region is characterized by its simplicity and use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

One of the most popular restaurants in the park is the Licka Kuca Restaurant, which offers traditional Croatian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. This restaurant is located near the park's entrance and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Another great option is the Vila Velebita Restaurant, which is located inside the Hotel Jezero. This restaurant offers a range of international and Croatian dishes, as well as a stunning view of the park's lakes and waterfalls.

For a more casual dining experience, the park has several cafes and snack bars that offer quick and easy meals. These cafes are located throughout the park, so you can grab a bite to eat while exploring the park's stunning scenery.

Tips for Visiting

If you're planning a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are some tips to help make your trip a success:

  • Plan ahead: The park can get crowded during peak season, so it's best to plan ahead and book your accommodations and activities in advance.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: The park has a lot of walking trails, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes.
  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: The park is located in a wooded area, so it's important to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and bugs.
  • Respect the park's rules: The park has rules in place to protect its natural beauty, so it's important to respect them. Stay on designated trails, do not litter, and do not disturb the wildlife.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. The park can get very crowded during the summer months, especially in July and August, when temperatures can reach over 30 degrees Celsius. During the winter months, the park can be covered in snow, making it a magical winter wonderland.

Also see the best time to visit Croatia.

Entrance Fees and Opening Hours

The entrance fee for Plitvice Lakes National Park varies depending on the season. In the high season (July and August), the fee is 300 Kuna (approximately 40 euros) per person, while in the low season, the fee is 150 Kuna (approximately 20 euros) per person. Children under the age of seven can enter the park for free.

The park is open year-round, but the opening hours vary depending on the season. During the high season (July and August), the park is open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. During the low season, the park is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Accessibility

Plitvice Lakes National Park is accessible to visitors with disabilities, but some areas of the park may be difficult to navigate. The park has several accessible trails and facilities, including parking areas, restrooms, and restaurants.

Visitors with disabilities can enter the park for free, and they can also bring a companion with them for free. The park also has several electric carts available for rent for visitors who have difficulty walking.

Getting There

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in the central part of Croatia, near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. The park is about a two-hour drive from the capital city of Zagreb, and about a four-hour drive from the coastal city of Split.

If you're traveling by car, the park has several parking areas available for visitors. The parking areas are located near the park's entrances, and they are well-marked and easy to find.

If you're traveling by public transportation, the park is accessible by bus from Zagreb and other major cities in Croatia. The buses run regularly during the peak season, but they may be less frequent during the low season.

Wildlife

Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, lynx, and deer. The park is also home to over 150 species of birds, including the golden eagle, the white-tailed eagle, and the osprey.

Visitors to the park are advised to be cautious when encountering wildlife, and to keep a safe distance from them. The park also has several designated viewing areas where visitors can observe the wildlife from a safe distance.

Conservation Efforts

Plitvice Lakes National Park is committed to preserving its natural beauty and protecting its wildlife. The park has several conservation efforts in place, including a reforestation program, a waste management program, and a program to protect the park's water quality.

The park also has several educational programs in place to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism. Visitors to the park can participate in these programs and learn more about the park's conservation efforts.

Trails and Routes

Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a variety of trails and routes for visitors to explore. The park has several well-marked trails that range in difficulty from easy to moderate. The trails are suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.

One of the most popular trails is the Great Waterfall Trail, which is a 3.5-kilometer route that takes visitors past some of the park's most stunning waterfalls, including the Great Waterfall, which is the highest waterfall in Croatia.

Another popular trail is the Kozjak Lake Trail, which is a 4-kilometer route that takes visitors past the park's largest lake, Kozjak Lake. This trail offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forest.

For visitors who want a longer hike, the park has several longer trails that take several hours to complete. These trails take visitors deep into the park's wilderness, offering a more remote and secluded experience.

Waterfalls and Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and lakes. The park has 16 interconnected lakes that are divided into two groups: the upper lakes and the lower lakes. The lakes are connected by a series of cascading waterfalls and natural travertine barriers.

The water in the lakes is crystal clear and has a unique turquoise color, making it a photographer's paradise. Visitors can explore the lakes and waterfalls by foot, by boat, or by kayak.

Some of the most popular waterfalls in the park include the Great Waterfall, the Veliki Prštavac Waterfall, and the Milanovac Waterfall. These waterfalls are some of the largest in the park and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Wildflowers and Plants

Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to a wide variety of wildflowers and plants. The park has over 1200 species of plants, including several endemic species that are found only in this region.

In the spring and summer months, the park is covered in a carpet of wildflowers, including orchids, primroses, and irises. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the park's meadows and forests and enjoy the colorful display of wildflowers.

The park is also home to several species of trees, including beech, fir, and spruce. The trees in the park are several hundred years old and provide a stunning backdrop to the park's lakes and waterfalls.

Conclusion

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a unique destination that combines the beauty of nature with luxury amenities. With its stunning lakes, waterfalls, and forests, it's no wonder why this park is one of the most popular destinations in Croatia. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone at this park.

From hiking and cycling to kayaking and horseback riding, Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. And with its luxury accommodations and world-class dining options, the park offers a unique experience that combines the beauty of nature with the luxuries of modern amenities.

So, start planning your luxury trip to Croatia and discover the natural wonder of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Whether you're a nature lover or a luxury traveler, this park is a must-visit destination that should not be missed.

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