Croatia is certainly not lacking in natural jewels, but one differs in particular - the Plitvice Lakes. Located in the lower elevations of the Dinarides, in Lika, this largest and oldest Croatian national park, with its uniqueness and exceptional natural beauty, captivates at first glance. However, the main attraction of this park, which is unique in the world, is the lake system comprised of 16 named and unnamed lakes that tumble into each other, one after the other, in a series of stunning waterfalls. No words can describe all this beauty and harmony, which seems more suitable to a fantasy world than a place on Earth.

Experience the Pristine, Untouched Nature of the Plitvice Lakes

Founded in 1949, the stunning park has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1979. The park's outstanding natural beauty and unusual geology continue to draw in over a million visitors a year. The Plitvice Lakes are mainly covered with forest vegetation, and what surprises visitors the most is that only 1% of the park's total area is the lakes. The beauty of the lake system is the result of thousands of years of water flowing over limestone and chalk, creating natural travertine dams, which in turn have created a series of one-of-a-kind caves, waterfalls, and beautiful lakes. These processes continue still to this day.

What to See and Do at Plitvice Lakes?

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience a piece of the pristine, untouched nature of the green heart of Croatia. There are eight hiking routes; the longest takes up to 8 hours, and the shortest takes 3 hours. Both feature stunning waterfalls and lake views, so you can't go wrong with either. But be prepared; around every bend is another beautiful view. The Plitvice Lakes national park covers almost 30,000 hectares, so make sure you take your time and enjoy its beauty. It might sound too big, but don't worry, you won't get lost; the beautiful boardwalk trails will lead you all the way. You can also hop on a panoramic electric train to get to a higher part of the park - and best of all, it is included in the price of your entrance ticket.

Although there are almost over 90 waterfalls that compose the Plitvice Lakes, the biggest and the most impressive one is certainly Veliki Slap. Standing at 78 meters and located at the Lower Lake, Veliki Slap differs from the others in its origin. Namely, while the other Plitvice waterfalls were created by water flowing over limestone and chalk, creating natural travertine dams, the Veliki Slap was created by the collapse of the Plitvice stream.

If you want to see Plitvice Lakes from a different perspective, go on an electric boat ride on the biggest lake in Plitvice - lake Kozjak, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

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When Is the Best Time To Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Whether you visit Plitvice Lakes in winter or summer, spring or autumn, you will feel the same magic. Each season tells its own story. The national park is open 365 days a year, but the opening hours change depending on the season. So be sure to check their site before buying tickets. Price of the tickets are cheaper in winter, ranging from 10.60 euros for adults and 4.65 euros for children, while in summer, they are slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from 26.54 euros to 39.82 euros for adults and from 9.29 euros to 15 .93 euros for children.

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