Plitvice Lakes National Park
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Year of Inscription: 1979
Criteria: (vii) contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance.
Overview: Plitvice Lakes National Park is a stunning natural park located in central Croatia. It is known for its system of interconnected lakes and waterfalls, which are surrounded by lush forests and rocky cliffs. The park covers an area of 296.85 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.
Prominent Features: The most notable features of Plitvice Lakes National Park are its 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 waterfalls, which are arranged in cascades. The lakes are renowned for their unique colors, which range from turquoise to deep blue, and are formed by the deposition of minerals and algae. The park also features several walking trails and boardwalks, which allow visitors to explore the lakes and waterfalls up close.
History: The lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice have been attracting visitors for centuries. However, it was not until the 19th century that the area became a popular tourist destination. In the 1940s, the park was designated as a protected area, and in 1979, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy a variety of activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park, including: Walking and Hiking: The park has several walking trails and boardwalks, which are suitable for families with children. The trails range from easy to moderate and offer stunning views of the lakes and waterfalls.
Boat Tours: Visitors can take a boat tour of the largest lake in the park, Kozjak Lake. The tours offer a unique perspective of the park and its surroundings. Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas where families can enjoy a meal while surrounded by nature.
Fun Fact: Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to over 120 species of birds, including the white-throated dipper, a small bird that can swim and walk underwater in search of food. In fact, the white-throated dipper is the official symbol of the park, and its image is featured on the park's logo. Visitors to the park can often spot these unique birds perched on rocks or diving into the crystal-clear waters of the lakes
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Plitvice Lakes National Park varies depending on the season. During the high season (April to October), the fee is 300 Croatian kuna (approximately 40 euros) per person for adults, and 120 Croatian kuna (approximately 16 euros) per person for children aged 7-18. Children under 7 years old can enter for free. During the low season (November to March), the fee is reduced to 150 Croatian kuna (approximately 20 euros) per person for adults, and 70 Croatian kuna (approximately 9 euros) per person for children aged 7-18.
How to Reach It: Plitvice Lakes National Park is located about 130 kilometers south of Zagreb and 240 kilometers north of Split. Visitors can reach the park by:
By Car: The park is easily accessible by car, with a well-maintained road network connecting it to major cities in Croatia.
By Bus: There are several bus services that connect major cities in Croatia with Plitvice Lakes National Park. The journey takes about 2-3 hours from Zagreb and 4-5 hours from Split.
By Train: There is a train station located near the park, which is served by several trains per day from Zagreb and Split.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in and around Plitvice Lakes National Park, including:
Next Stop: Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
Year of Inscription: 1979
Criteria: (vii) contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance.
Overview: Plitvice Lakes National Park is a stunning natural park located in central Croatia. It is known for its system of interconnected lakes and waterfalls, which are surrounded by lush forests and rocky cliffs. The park covers an area of 296.85 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.
Prominent Features: The most notable features of Plitvice Lakes National Park are its 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 waterfalls, which are arranged in cascades. The lakes are renowned for their unique colors, which range from turquoise to deep blue, and are formed by the deposition of minerals and algae. The park also features several walking trails and boardwalks, which allow visitors to explore the lakes and waterfalls up close.
History: The lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice have been attracting visitors for centuries. However, it was not until the 19th century that the area became a popular tourist destination. In the 1940s, the park was designated as a protected area, and in 1979, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy a variety of activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park, including: Walking and Hiking: The park has several walking trails and boardwalks, which are suitable for families with children. The trails range from easy to moderate and offer stunning views of the lakes and waterfalls.
Boat Tours: Visitors can take a boat tour of the largest lake in the park, Kozjak Lake. The tours offer a unique perspective of the park and its surroundings. Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas where families can enjoy a meal while surrounded by nature.
Fun Fact: Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to over 120 species of birds, including the white-throated dipper, a small bird that can swim and walk underwater in search of food. In fact, the white-throated dipper is the official symbol of the park, and its image is featured on the park's logo. Visitors to the park can often spot these unique birds perched on rocks or diving into the crystal-clear waters of the lakes
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Plitvice Lakes National Park varies depending on the season. During the high season (April to October), the fee is 300 Croatian kuna (approximately 40 euros) per person for adults, and 120 Croatian kuna (approximately 16 euros) per person for children aged 7-18. Children under 7 years old can enter for free. During the low season (November to March), the fee is reduced to 150 Croatian kuna (approximately 20 euros) per person for adults, and 70 Croatian kuna (approximately 9 euros) per person for children aged 7-18.
How to Reach It: Plitvice Lakes National Park is located about 130 kilometers south of Zagreb and 240 kilometers north of Split. Visitors can reach the park by:
By Car: The park is easily accessible by car, with a well-maintained road network connecting it to major cities in Croatia.
By Bus: There are several bus services that connect major cities in Croatia with Plitvice Lakes National Park. The journey takes about 2-3 hours from Zagreb and 4-5 hours from Split.
By Train: There is a train station located near the park, which is served by several trains per day from Zagreb and Split.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in and around Plitvice Lakes National Park, including:
- Hotel Jezero: This is a modern hotel located within the park. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a wellness center.
- Ethno Houses Plitvica Selo: This is a collection of traditional wooden houses located just outside the park. It offers cozy rooms and apartments, a restaurant serving local cuisine
Next Stop: Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe