Why your next vacation should be to the Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes are a phenomenon and one of the jewels of the world’s natural heritage. As the oldest and the largest national park in the Republic of Croatia, this area has always attracted many nature-lovers with its unique, natural beauty. On 8th April 1949, Plitvice Lakes were declared the first national park in Croatia, and due to their exceptional natural value, on 26th October 1979, they were the first in Croatia and among the first in the world inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. If you decide to visit this National Park, you can take a tour with a guide or discover the lakes on your own, following some of the 8 circular tour programs of the lake zone of the Park and watching the beauty of numerous waterfalls through 8 km long visitor trails. Ticket prices vary depending on the season and can be purchased online or on the spot, at the entrance to the Park. In addition to the walk through the Park, the ticket includes a panoramic train ride as well as an electric boat ride across largest Plitvice lake, Kozjak, even with pets, who are always welcome in the National Park, but with the use of a leash in order to provide safety for other visitors. Hiking For all adventurers who would like to explore further the riches of Plitvice Lakes and spend their vacation in a different way, we offer walks along 4 hiking trails within the National Park. All our hiking trails are both recreational and educational, with the aim to bring the forest ecosystem closer to our visitors, and enrich their knowledge and understanding of the role of forests in preserving lakes. Our hiking trails lead through large forest complexes and mountain meadows with beautiful views of the Plitvice landscape. Along the trails there are educational billboards with interesting facts about the forest life and other natural and cultural sights. Breathtaking nature through all four seasons Our visitors can enjoy the charms of untouched nature regardless of the seasons, as the Plitvice Lakes National Park is open all year round. Each season really brings a different experience of the lakes and enchants visitors with its unique beauty. During summer you can take a walk under the dense greenery by the waterfalls and refresh yourself from the heat, in spring enjoy the blossoming nature and warm rays of the sun, in autumn observe the magical colors of the forest and its reflection in the lakes or experience the frozen snow fairytale in winter. Spring and autumn are more suitable for all those who would like to avoid big crowds and enjoy every moment spent in this water paradise. The unbridled beauty of nature in the Plitvice Lakes National Park enchants every visitor. Its crystal-clear lakes, murmur of water and the sound of waterfalls, all in the green embrace of the forest environment, are the reason why Plitvice Lakes are known as the most visited Croatian national park. Attractions of the National Park Veliki Slap or Big Waterfall The highest waterfall in Croatia, Veliki Slap, also known as the Big Waterfall, is located in the Plitvice Lakes National Park and is 87 metres high. Interestingly, it is formed by Plitvice stream tumbling down over the rocks, while other waterfalls of the Park are formed by the overflow of lakes over travertine barriers. The Plitvice stream springs 4 kms west from the Big Waterfall and is responsible for one of the most famous views of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The power and beauty of the Big Waterfall stand out from other waterfalls, especially during heavy rains, when the impressive power of water shows its full splendour. In addition to the Big Waterfall, in the lake system there are six waterfalls higher than 20 metres and twenty of them higher than 10 metres. 16 crystal clear lakes The lake system of Plitvice Lakes consists of 16 named and many smaller, cascading lakes. Due to the geological background and specific hydrogeological conditions, the lake system is divided into twelve upper and four lower Lakes. Kozjak Lake is the largest, deepest and currently the only navigable lake, where visitors can enjoy an electric boat ride, but also the opportunity to explore it on a wooden rowing boat, admiring the beautiful nature that surrounds it. Of particular interest to every visitor are the tourist facilities along Kozjak Lake. On the meadow next to this lake you canenjoy food and drinks in the fresh air. There is a wide selection of souvenirs in a nearby shop to remind you of your visit to Plitvice Lakes. Waterfalls Mali Prštavac and Veliki Prštavac are among the most attractive waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Their name refers to the splashing of water and the creation of a water mist which has a refreshing effect in the summer months. Relaxation and connection with nature in the green heart of Plitvice Lakes Hotel Jezero, located in the central zone of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, promises a stay marked by relaxation and a connection with nature. Its unique position provides an enchanting experience of an oasis of peace in untouched nature. In addition, the pleasant ambience, helpful staff and attention to detail will help you feel comfortable and relaxed during your stay. Hotel Jezero has 205 rooms and 19 suites, two of which are adapted for people with disabilities. With accommodation in a natural environment and magical atmosphere of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, you can leave all your worries behind and surrender to the healing touch of greenery. Fill your days with walks along the lakes, explore the surrounding hiking and walking trails, and if you decide to enjoy some sports activities, there is a fitness room and bowling alley available. In addition, the experience of a deep rest that regenerates the body and soul will be enriched by the facilities of the hotel’s wellness zone: a whirlpool, Finnish sauna and a beauty salon where you can have a massage or face and body treatments. Hotel Plitvice, built according to the project of the renowned Croatian architect Marijan Haberle, is a real architectural gem and a protected cultural asset of the Republic of Croatia with an exclusive location in the heart of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Only 200 metres from the hotel there is a bus stop and the entrance to the visitor zone of the park, so it’s easy to get acquainted with the beauties of the Park and to be revitalised by its natural environment. With 52 accommodation units, friendly and professional staff at guests’ disposal, we proudly highlight Hotel Plitvice’s long history of tourism in the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The gastronomic offering of Hotel Plitvice’s restaurant consists of local specialties prepared from ingredients produced in the Lika region. The quality and origin of the food is guaranteed by the region’s quality labelling system, Lika Quality, so you can rest assured of an authentic gastronomic experience. Experience a unique fusion of Lika tradition and top gastronomy Restaurant Lička Kuća is a must if you are looking for a wide range of specialties with traditional flavours prepared in modern gastronomic ways, served in the warmth of an open fireplace and the original ambience of an old Lika house. Modern cooking technologies are used in the preparation of traditional dishes, meat is procured from local farms and processed in their own butcher’s shop, while all pastries and desserts are produced in their own bakery. In addition to the meals with a modern twist, in restaurant Lička Kuća you can enjoy the flavors of traditionally prepared Lika lamb and veal, cooked under a baking lid with delicious potatoes from the Lika fields. Tomislav Kovačević is General Manager at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Plitvice Lakes National Park is the oldest and biggest national park in Croatia. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.