It has been whispered among people that Croatia is home to a heavenly garden on earth, where only the lucky ones can set foot. The turquoise blue lakes flow over limestone and travertine barriers, forming beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and caves that have been evolving for thousands of years. This place is considered one of the must-visit natural wonders in Croatia, attracting millions of visitors every year.

Plitvice Lakes is the oldest national park in the Balkans region and the largest national park in Croatia. It is located halfway between the capital city of Zagreb and the coastal city of Zadar. Plitvice was one of the first world heritage sites recognized by UNESCO in 1979.

The national park is a complex of 16 interconnected lakes with stunning beauty, connected by a series of waterfalls, all situated within a deep forest. It is also home to various wildlife such as deer, stags, bears, wolves, boars, and rare bird species. Stepping into this place feels like entering a true paradise, where the beauty is a perfect combination of nature’s wonders and the human touch.

Visitors often recount their love for walking through the park in the fresh air. Along with admiring the lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife, they feel as if they have stumbled upon something magical. There are two main entrance paths, and regardless of which one you take, you will experience the beauty from different perspectives.

Entering through path 1, you descend a winding gravel path that leads to a wooden walkway that stretches across the lakes. Standing on the wooden bridge, facing the lake, you will feel as if the water extends for miles. On this path, you will also witness the largest waterfall, Veliki Slap, on the right side. Alternatively, walking down the wooden path allows you to capture the most beautiful waterfall views. There is a small area where you can stand beneath Veliki Slap and take memorable photos.

Moreover, the wooden walkways will lead visitors to enjoy magnificent views on both sides of the lakes. The Supljara Cave is also located along path 1, displaying various rare animal species that attract many tourists. Exploring the caves and hiking uphill offers a fascinating way to admire the unique beauty of the lakes.

Entering through path 2, visitors have various options to start their exploration. Taking a boat ride allows you to witness schools of fish swimming in the crystal-clear water down to the depths. If you choose the electric train, you will be amazed by the diverse plant life in the European forest.

These stunning landscapes captivate even the most discerning individuals, even those who may not usually be interested in nature, will be taken aback by the beauty bestowed by Mother Nature in this place.

The caves in the park were formed by limestone from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods, and the geological processes are still ongoing to this day. The natural characteristics of the area have created different yet breathtaking ecological layers.

Although Plitvice is renowned for its wildlife, visitors can also encounter numerous fish species. Observing them swimming in schools beneath the lakes is considered a fascinating activity.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is fortunate to possess the beauty gifted by Mother Nature, with its crystal-clear lakes and vapor-filled water creating a truly magnificent sight. Visitors who come here feel like they have entered a celestial realm, gazing upon the marvelous wonders that are hard to forget. If you visit Croatia, choosing Plitvice as a destination is a fortunate choice for any traveler.