Updated December 7, 2023

Plitvice Lakes: Croatia’s Oasis of Beauty

One of Croatia’s biggest and most established national parks is Plitvice Lakes. It is also registered with the UNESCO World Heritage list because of its remarkable and aesthetically pleasing network of tufa lakes, caverns, and waterfalls. The National Park was formed in 1949 and is located in central Croatia’s mountainous Karst region, near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Park area covers 296.85 square kilometers, which means approximately 73,350 acres. The National Park is well-known for its cascading lakes. From the surface, sixteen lakes can be observed. The confluence of multiple minor rivers and subterranean karst rivers forms the lakes.

Geography and Climate

Location: The Plitvice Lakes National Park is nestled in Croatia. The Plitvice Lakes originated in the Dinaric Alps, between the Mala Kapela peak in the west and the Pljeevica mountain in the east.
Topography: The parks have hills, rivers, terrain, Mountains, and a network of rivers and water sources.
Climate: It is a continental climate experienced at lakes influenced by its inland location in Croatia. Summers are generally warm. The Autumn brings cooler temperatures, whereas winters can be cool, and snowfall is possible.

Culture and Tradition

Ethnic Diversity: The Pilitvic Lake (Croatia) has different communities, including Serbian, Bosnian, Italian, and Hungarian, but most are Catholic.
Festivals: They celebrate festivals such as Zagreb Advent Kharism and Rijeka Carnival, one of Europe’s most colorful carnivals.
Traditional Attire: Croatian attire varies by region. Generally, it has colorful embroidery and intricate designs. Examples: The “Fustanela – Men’s skirt.”

Best Tourist Places in Plitvice Lakes

Below is the list of top tourist places to visit in Plitvice Lakes:

1. Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall)

Veliki Slap, also known as Great Waterfall, is the highest Waterfall among Plitvice Lakes. It cascades down at 78 meters with stunning natural attractions.

Location: 53231, Plitvica Selo, Croatia. It is at the end of the Lower Lakes, over which the Plitvica River falls, and Veliki Prstavac at the Upper Lakes. It is nestled in central Croatia, near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early Autumn (May to September).
Things to do: Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Waterfall, hike, take photographs, and explore the lakes by boat riding.
Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear while exploring different terrains; carry water and snacks for the journey. If you are a photogenic person, you must hire a good zoom camera to capture a detailed view of the lake.

2. Kozjak Lake

Kozjak Lake is the most profound and largest lake among the Plitvice Lakes. It has an area of 82 hectares and a depth of 48 meters. The lake’s length is 2,35 kilometers, and its width ranges between 135 and 670 meters at its northern end, near the Plitvice village. The lake is part of the Plitvice Upper Lakes complex.

Kozjak was named after ‘koza,’ which means ‘goat’ in Croatian, after a legend about some goats hunted by wolves and stranded around the lake…

Location: Lower Kozjak Lake is situated in the Upper Lake District.
Best time to Visit: If you want a pleasant atmosphere, then Early autumn (May to September ) is the best time. Summer days are usually crowded.
Things to do: You can try a boat ride. You can chill here with the best greenery shoreline.
Tips: Check the schedule for the park ferry service that crosses Kozjak Lake. Carry essential accessories, Snacks, and water with you.

3. Proscansko Jezero (Proscansko Lake)

Proscansko Lake is one of the larger lakes in the Park. Parkth has crystal-clear waters. Proscansko Lake is located 638 meters above sea level and is one of the second largest lakes among Plitvice lakes. It has a very captivating scenic background that contributes to the mesmerizing beauty. The lake is known for its pristine waters, which reflect the lush greenery and create a serene atmosphere.

Location: Proscansko Lake is in Plitvice Lakes National Park in central Croatia.
Best time to Visit: We have longer days and warmer temperatures on summer days.
Things to do: Enjoy the scenic walks and capture the Stunning reflections on the lake’s clear surface.
Tips: As you explore the parkParkne, wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.

4. Supljara Cave

The constant flow of water naturally forms the Supljara Cave. The cave begins at Park Park’s beginning and has a lovely view of the great cascade. This one-of-a-kind geological formation illustrates water’s transformative power in creating the landscape.

The cave is most likely located along one of the Park’s walls, allowing visitors to explore this natural wonder while taking in the scenery.

Location: 53231, Rastovaca, Croatia. Supljara is a cave on the shores of Kaluerovac Lake with stunning views of the Great Cascades.
Best time to Visit: If you want a pleasant atmosphere, then Early autumn ( May to September ) is the best time. Summer days are usually crowded. However, the Park is open throughout the year.
Things to do: You can explore the geological process behind the formation of the cave.
Tips: Follow park rules. Bring appropriate clothing as the weather varies.

5. Plitvica Stream

It is a picturesque stream connecting several lakes and waterfalls. The stream flows through the Park, linking several lakes and providing a dynamic and visually pleasing link between the sacred elevations and terraces. The Plitvica Stream Contributes to the overall beauty.

Location: It is within the Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia.
Best time to Visit: The Plitvica Stream is open to visitors during the Park’s waiting hours.
Things to do: You can capture the Park’s scenic beauty—the crystal clear reflections of the water. Also, you can enjoy the pleasant sound of the water while exploring the Park.
Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes as there is uneven terrain.

6. Milka Trnina House

A historic building named after the famous Croatian opera singer provides a glimpse into the Park’s history. Park’slka Trnina House is a landmark structure in Plitvice Lakes National Park named for the famous Croatian opera singer Milka Trnina. It offers visitors a glimpse of the Park’s history.

Location: It is within the Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia. The exact location may vary; you must check with the park staff members.
Best time to Visit: You can go any time of the year, as per your preference. During spring days, the weather is pleasant.
Things to do: Learn about the Milka Trnmina and capture the house’s historic architecture. Know Parks history.
Tips: Check the availability of visiting the house. Combine your park visit with the lake exploration, as it will be more beneficial for you.

7. Galovac Lake

Galovac Lake is a picturesque lake within the Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for its emerald-green color and unique flora and fauna. The lake’s clean waters and rich vegetation contribute to its serene and picturesque ambiance.

Among all the lakes in the system, Galovac Lake is the eighth highest. The lake is around 580 meters long overall and 350 meters wide at its widest point. The lake is a member of the Upper Lakes Plitvice group.

Galovac obtained its name from the Croatian surname “Gal / Galović,” derived from “Gal.

Location: Central Croatia. Galovac Lake is in central Croatia, inside the Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Best time to Visit: May to September; during this time, there is pleasant weather and increased visibility in the water.
Things to do: Enjoy the scenic walks and capture the Stunning reflections and vibrant colors on the lake’s clear surface. Enjoy a tranquil ambiance.
Tips: As you explore the Park, wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.

8. Pevalekovica Kosa Educational Trail

Pevalekovica Kosa Educational Trail is a walking trail with educational displays about the university. It is about 1.5 kilometers long. The path is full of educational exhibits that provide information about the Park system, allowing visitors to better appreciate the fragile balance of life within this magnificent surface.

Location: The Pevalekovica Kosa Educational Trail is situated in the Upper Lakes region of Plitvice Lakes National Park and can be accessed easily from Entrance 1.
Best time to Visit: Late spring days are the best time to visit.
Things to do: Explore the Park’s flora and fauna. Learn about the wildlife present in the Park—parkture charming photographs.
Tips: Bring a high-quality camera to capture the trail’s natural splendor. View wildlife from a more secure distance.

9. Batinovac Waterfall

Batinovac Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. There are big beech trees around Batinovic, and beautiful trails go past several little waterfalls made of travertine, moss, and herbs. Low walls, sparse vegetation, and a few big trees bound the lake’s edges.

It is the fourth-highest lake in the whole lake system.

Location: Located at an altitude of 610 meters above sea level. It is nestled in central Croatia, inside the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The lake is under 80 meters wide and around 140 meters long overall. The lake is a part of the Upper Lakes Plitvice complex.
Best time to Visit: The best time to visit the parParky varies depending on your tastes. However, it is open all year round.
Things to do: Explore the lake’s surface; the water’s reflection depends upon the season you visit, Autumn or summer. Each has its beauty.
Tips: Carry a wide-angle, zoom lens to capture the scenic beauty of the lake.

10. Novakovica Brod

Novakovica Brod is a panoramic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

It is the last and lowest lake in the Plitvice Lakes system, yet it’s one of the most picturesque in the Park. Waters from Kaludjerovac feed the lake via two-meter-high barriers, which create a series of tiny waterfalls. Novakovia Brod’s waters rush down over several waterfalls, including the majestic Sastavci Falls, the tallest Waterfall in the Plitvice Lakes system.

Location: Novakovia Brod is located at the end of the Lower Lakes Canyon, approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from the Plitvice Lakes National Park entrance. It is situated at 505 meters above sea level. It’s only approximately 250 meters long.
Best time to Visit: In late spring days, May to September. The weather is mild these days.
Things to do: You can experience the panoramic view of the lake, and you can also enjoy swimming here. The boat rides are also available.
Tips: Bring a swimming costume if you want to swim. Bring comfortable shoes and a water bottle with you. You can enjoy the lunch break here.

11. Kaluderovic Lake

Kaluderovic Lake is a serene lake with crystal-clear waters. It is one of the biggest lakes in this section of the system, with a depth of 14 meters and an area of 2.1 hectares. The lake is 225 meters long and 70 to 95 meters wide. The lake is a part of the Donja Jezera (Lower Lakes) group.

Kaluerovac was named after ‘Kaluer,’ a local monk (hermit) who spent his time in the cave above the lake (Supljara cave).

Location: Central Croatia. Nestled in the steepest area of the canyon and surrounded by cliffs, some of which rise to a height of over forty (40) meters,
The best time to visit is May to September. On winter days, you can experience parks with snow-covered landscapes.
Things to do: You can find a peaceful place and relax there. Explore the trails around the lake.
Listen to the bird sound. Capture the beauty of the crystal clear lake.
Tips: If you are curious about birdwatching, bring binoculars with you. Wear comfortable attire.

12. Milinovo Lake

Milinovo Lake is nestled among the trees, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Milinovo Lake is one of Plitvice Lakes National Park’s most tranquil and calm regions. The lake is most likely distinguished by its natural beauty, beautiful waters, and rich foliage. Its remote position in nature makes it an excellent option for individuals looking for a calm retreat and a connection with nature.

Location: Milinovo Lake is between Galovac Lake and Gradinsko Lake, right off the main route in the Upper Lakes area. It is easily accessible on foot from National Park Entrances 1 and 2.
Best time to Visit: The best time to visit is from May to September, when the natural surroundings are most vibrant. Spring brings blooming flowers, while Autumn offers colorful foliage.
Things to do: Stroll around the lakeshore. Capture the beauty of the lake. You can enjoy the serenity of this hidden oasis.
Tips: You can go with our lunch and enjoy a beach picnic. Be careful while walking as it’s a wildlife area.

13. Plitvice Lakes Museum

Learn about Park’s history, flora, and fauna at this informative museum. The museum was built in 1990 and housed in the traditional wooden block. The museum has three parts: history, flora, and fauna. The history sections imply park growth, development, and geological forces that led to the foundation of park lakes. The flora part shows the diverse plant life in Parkhe Park.

Visitors can see specimens of the trees and flowers in Parkhe Park. The display also covers the challenges of the Park’s fauna and the measures to keep them safe.

Location: The museum is in Jezerce village, near park entrance 1…
Best time to Visit: Visitors can visit the museum from 8 am to 6 pm throughout the year.
Things to do: Take a guided tour of the museum. Learn about the historical aspects of the surroundings. Learn about the animals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians that call the park home.
Tips: Give some adequate time to visit the museum. Plan your visit with Park Exploration.

14. Sastavci Waterfall

Sastavci Waterfall is a series of cascades that lead to the lower lakes.

Within Plitvice Lakes National Park, the mesmerizing Sastavci Waterfall is a sequence of waterfalls that create a stunning display as they lead to the lower lakes. The play of water as it descends in a series of steps adds to the landscape’s natural beauty, contributing to the overall charm of Plitvice Lakes.

Location: Central Croatia. Sastavci Waterfall is around 3 kilometers from Plitvice Lakes National Park’s entrance at the mouth of the Lower Lakes Canyon.
Best time to Visit: Visit during the spring. The water flow is most vital at this time.
Things to do: Take a boat ride at the Waterfall’s base. Explore trails that lead to and from the Sastavci Waterfall.
Tips: Capture the beauty of the Waterfall, and bring comfortable footwear.

15. Gavanovac Lake

A tranquil lake with a waterfall at one end. Gavanovac Jezero, also known as Gavanovac Lake, is the second-highest lake in the Plitvice Lower Lakes, rising 518 meters above sea level and one of the smaller lakes in the entire system.

Ferns and trees surround it; it also has a small island in the middle of the lake, and you can see various birds there.

Location: Nestled in the lower lakes section of the Park, Central Croatia, just below Galovac Lake.
Best time to Visit: You can visit throughout the year when the Park is Open. Spring days have a mild atmosphere, while summer days are hot. Visit based on your preference.
Things to do: capture the view of the Gavankvac Lake and the reflection on the lake’s surface. Look for native plants, and listen to bird sounds.
Tips: Relax on a bench and feel the surroundings. Explore the birds on the island in the middle of the lake.

16. Plitvica River

The Plitvica River is a 65-kilometer-long right tributary of the Drava in Croatia. The major river runs through Plitvice Lakes National Park and is responsible for the Park’s distinctive travertine waterfalls.

The origin of the Plitvica River is the Macelj Mountains, and then it flows south through the Lika area of Croatia. At the village of Rastocac, it enters Plivice Lakes National Park.

Location: The Plitvica River meanders through the Plitvice Lakes National Park in central Croatia.
Best time to Visit: You can visit the whole of the Park. But the garden is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
Things to do: Follow the river’s course as it meanderParkrough the Park. Take a boat ride across the river.
Tips: Be Prepared for varying weather conditions. Bring a photography camera.

17. Veli slap

Veli Slap is the scenic viewpoint in Crodia Park and is one of the Park’s prominent natural features due to its tremendous flow and picturesque surroundings. Veli Slap, surrounded by thick flora, exhibits nature’s raw beauty as the water plunges spectacularly into the pool below, producing a fascinating spectacle for tourists.

Location: It is located just below Sastavci Waterfall. Visitors can access Veli Slap by following designated trails and patParks within the Park.
Best time to Visit: The visitors can access the fall throughout tParkear when the Park is open from 8 am to 6 pm.
Things to do: You can take a boat ride or swim on the side of the Veli slap waterfall. Explore the scenic beauty.
Tips: Carry a swimming suit if you wish to swim. Bring snacks and sun protection accessories as summer is too hot.

18. Braca Kesic Watermill

Braca Kesic Watermill is a historic watermill showcasing traditional milling techniques. This watermill preserves the area’s legacy by giving guests an insight into the traditional methods of water power milling.

The location has well-preserved equipment and shows off the artistry and inventiveness of old-fashioned milling techniques. The Braca Kesic Watermill is an excellent example of a traditional Croatian milling technique; people still use it to grind the flour.

Location: It is nestled in the village of Rastovac, just a short walk from the entrance of Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Best time to Visit: The mill is open from 9 am to 5 pm. You can visit during spring days.
Things to do: Take a guided tour of the mill to explore its history and operation. Visitors can purchase fresh flour from the mill.
Tips: Bring the camera to capture the beauty of the surroundings, and be cautious while exploring the mills’ property.

19. Milanovac Waterfall

Milanovac Waterfall is a captivating waterfall located in the Upper Lakes area. Milanovac is a 10-meter-high waterfall located at the barrier of Kozjak Lake and Milanovacko Lake. The water is a bright turquoise color, and it is entirely transparent. Surrounded by tall trees and ferns, the Waterfall boasts multiple viewing platforms that provide breathtaking vistas of the falls.

Location: Situated within the upper lakes area, Milanovac Waterfall is part of the scenic Plitvice Lakes in Croatia
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year. From 8 am to 6 pm.
Things to do: Take a scenic walk around the lake. Consider exploring nearby areas.
Tips: Consider visiting peak off-season for a more peaceful experience. Be careful while walking; there are wild animals also.

20. Borje

Borje is a scenic area with walking trails and panoramic views. The place is known for its natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination. It is a peaceful location among lush foliage and is a handy park for experiencing the Park’s natural marvels.

There are some outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and fishing.

Location: Nestled in Croatia’s Lika region, around 15 kilometers from Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Best time to Visit: Visit during the summer and spring months; these days have a mild atmosphere and strong water flow.
Things to do: Explore the scenic beauty and take panoramic view photos. Don’t forget your camera.!!!!!! Here, you can also rent a bicycle. Visit the nearest Korenica small village, which has a rich history.
Tips: Carry water; try the different outdoor activities.

21. Old City of Dreznik

Visit this nearby historic city to experience local culture and history. The Old City of Dreznik, nestled among Croatia’s stunning landscapes, is a monument to the region’s rich history and culture. Centuries ago, the city was an important center for trade and defense due to its advantageous location along the Kupa River. The city has a unique combination of history, environment, and culture.

Location: The Old City of Dreznik is in Karlovac, Croatia, around 15 kilometers from the Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Best time to Visit: The Old City of Dreznik is a pleasant destination any time of year.
Things to do: You must visit Dreznik Grad, which gives the city a panoramic view. Visit St. Catherine Church. Explore the architecture of the church.
Tips: You may try local cuisine. Bring comfortable footwear as you explore the village on foot. Bring a good camera to capture memories.

Conclusion

Plitvice Lakes is a breathtaking destination with cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes; whether exploring the iconic Veliki Slap or thPark’sne Milinovo Lake, the Park’s diverse topography and rich biodiversity create a captivating experience. Immerse yourself in nature’s wonders and the cultural heritage of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

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