Two hours from Zagreb lies one of Croatia’s—and the world’s – most beautiful spots: Plitvice Lakes National Park. Depending on hiking stamina, visitors can tackle all the major waterfalls, or simply trek down to the aptly named Big Waterfall, whose path holds more than enough adventure and dazzling views to make the trip worthwhile. Whether visiting for a few hours or taking a day-long bicycle tour, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not disappoint.
The park’s paths are actually wooden walkways suspended right over the lakes, curving through the clear waters around rocky outcroppings, and past the park’s many waterfalls. The paths are well marked and it’s easy to make the hike easier or more difficult as abilities allow.
Camping is not allowed throughout most of the park, but there are some campsites and hotels located close to the park’s entrances, including the Ethnos House, which is seemingly designed with children in mind. The rustic lodgings have a petting zoo, obstacle course, archery, and putt-putt golf course on site that’s completely free for guests. (There’s also a spa, including salt rooms, for the grown-ups).
Plitvice Lakes National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979 and within the first few moments of your journey, it’s easy to see why—the park is truly one of the world’s natural wonders.
Included in the price of admission to the park you can travel up the lake on electric boats and then hike around the waterfalls. You’ll see absolutely beautiful scenery. Note: in the high season it gets very crowded in the afternoon so get out early and take the first (8 am) boat.
