NATIONAL PARKS OF CROATIA

Despite its relatively small size, Croatia boasts eight national parks, each with its unique charm and natural wonders. These areas are protected to preserve their extraordinary natural heritage. Croatian national parks cover a diverse range of landscapes, from cascading waterfalls and pristine rivers to dense forests and mountains, all located in the karst region of the country. Here, we provide an overview of the basic information about each of Croatia’s national parks.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes is Croatia’s first national park and also the most famous and visited one. It consists of 16 interconnected lakes that cascade into each other through a series of waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is particularly popular for its stunning turquoise waters and unique karst topography.

2. Krka National Park
Named after the Krka River that runs through it, this national park features a series of spectacular waterfalls, the most famous being Skradinski Buk. The park also includes several historical landmarks, such as the picturesque Visovac Monastery, situated on a small island in the middle of the Krka River.

3. Brijuni National Park
Located off the western coast of Istria, this archipelago is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage. The national park boasts a safari park filled with exotic animals, and it contains exceptional archaeological sites, including dinosaur footprints and ruins from the Roman and Byzantine eras. Additionally, in the 20th century, Brijuni was a significant political site, and this legacy is preserved in the park’s museums and architecture.

4. Paklenica National Park
Situated in the Velebit mountain range, Paklenica National Park is a haven for nature lovers and hikers. It is characterized by dramatic karst landscapes, deep canyons, and rugged cliffs. The park offers numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, including those leading to the impressive Anića Kuk, a rock formation very popular among climbers.

5. Risnjak National Park
Located in Gorski Kotar, this national park is named after Mount Risnjak, its highest peak. It encompasses dense forests, meadows, and karst formations, and is home to various wildlife species, including brown bears, lynxes, and deer. The park offers numerous hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore its natural wealth and enjoy panoramic views from the peaks.

6. Northern Velebit National Park
This part of the Velebit mountain massif is characterized by rugged karst terrain, deep canyons, and diverse ecosystems. The park is a sanctuary for many endemic plant and animal species and is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor activities.

7. Kornati National Park
This archipelago in the Adriatic Sea consists of 89 islands, islets, and reefs, with land making up only a quarter of the park’s area. Kornati is a popular destination for sailing and diving, allowing visitors to explore the untouched marine environment.

8. Mljet National Park
This southernmost Croatian national park covers about a third of the island of Mljet and includes natural and cultural landmarks. The park’s most notable features are the Great Lake and the Small Lake, both surrounded by dense forest and connected by a narrow channel. Visitors can explore the lakes by kayak or take a boat to the islet of St. Mary, which houses an ancient Benedictine monastery.

These national parks highlight Croatia’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and offer a variety of experiences for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and climbing to sailing and exploring historical sites.