Croatia, a country with a long tradition of tourism, has something to offer even the most sophisticated traveler. The cleanest sea and secluded beaches, with rocks reflecting in the water, ancient castles on the slopes of the Croatian Zagorje and the endless fields of Slavonia, the hills of Gorski Kotar overgrown with a dense forest and healing thermal springs in small cozy towns hidden in the valleys between the mountains.
But, perhaps, some of the most pleasant memories remain with tourists after visiting unique reserves and national parks Croatia, thanks to which the country is among the most environmentally friendly places on the planet. All eight national parks are unique paradise that captivate with their natural beauty and pristine landscapes.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
This picturesque land, which is one of the visiting cards of the tourist face of Croatia, may be well known even to those who have never been to this country. The unique living scenery of the park has been widely used in the famous films "about Indians" starring Goiko Mitic. The landscapes of the Plitvice Lakes Park look truly fabulous: 16 karst lakes, connected with each other by numerous waterfalls and streams, surrounded by dense beech, larch and pine forest... Plitvice Lakes are located in the central part of the country, so the easiest way to get here is for tourists who have chosen North and Middle Dolmatia for recreation, as well as Zagreb.
Krka National Park
This park got its name from the Krka River, which is famous for its unique views. Most of its length, the Krka flows through a canyon, the depth of which varies from 100 to 200 meters, due to which the waters of the river form lakes. The water that collects in the lakes falls to the bottom of the canyon in silvery streams of seven waterfalls, which you can admire while walking along the paths specially equipped for walking excursions. Popular among tourists are boat trips to the island of Visovac, where the old Franciscan monastery is located, as well as trips to the nearby picturesque antique town of Skradin.
National Park "Brijuni"
The territory of the Brijuni park is made up of 14 islands located to the west of the Istrian coast, the temperate climate of which allows the Mediterranean flora to show all its beauty. Laurel trees, olives and rosemary, mighty oaks and slender cypresses form magnificent alleys in the shade of which you can meet pheasants, chamois or deer. History buffs are attracted to the islands by numerous archaeological and architectural monuments remaining here from the Roman emperors and Venetian merchants. It is allowed to sunbathe and swim on the beaches of the Brijuny Park, but you should be careful - it is easy to stumble upon sea urchins in the crystal clear water.
National Park "Kornati"
The beautiful legend of the creation of the Kornati archipelago says that it appeared from the stones left by the god after the creation of the earth. Thrown casually over his shoulder, stones fell into the Adriatic Sea and turned into 140 islands - there is no denser cluster of islands in the entire Mediterranean. The national park includes 110 islands that amaze a variety of animals and flora, and the underwater kingdom of the archipelago boasts an abundance of fish, corals and shellfish, in which pearls are found.
Paklenica National Park
Of course, Paklenica will not leave indifferent sportsmen and tourists who prefer active rest... The territory of this national park stretches between the southern slopes of the Velebit mountain range and the sea. Mountain rivers - Malaya and Velyka Paklenitsa, rocks, caves, canyons, waterfalls seem to challenge climbers and brave explorers. For less prepared tourists, there are hiking trails and excursions with a visit to the Manita Pech Cave.
National Park "Mljet"
In the western part of the largest Croatian island is located national park"Mljet", named after the island itself. The park area includes an untouched forest and two lakes, the larger of which was connected to the sea many centuries ago by a narrow channel dug by the monks by hand. In the small towns of Polace and Pomena, whose bays are very attractive for yachtsmen, a modern tourism infrastructure is gradually developing, but in general the island is still a suitable place for a calm, secluded holiday. The closest thing to Mljet is Dubrovnik, from where scheduled boats and ferries leave for the island.
National Park "Northern Velebit"
The huge territory of the Northern Velebit mountain range received the status of a national park relatively recently - only in 1999. But this does not mean that there is nothing to see in the youngest national park in Croatia. Here is the Lukina Cave, one of the deepest caves in the world, and in the central part of the park there are two nature reserves - Rozhanski Kukovy and Khaiduchki, on the territory of which there are limestone rocks and bizarre stones. For lovers of flora, a visit to the park will be remembered for a long time thanks to an excursion to the Velebit Botanical Garden.
National Park "Risnyak"
Park "Risnyak", named after the once lived here in a large number lynx, in terms of the tourism industry is practically undeveloped. In the territory of Risnjak, which begins near the town of Rijek and stretches directly to the Slovenian border, there are several mountains, where climbers and rock climbers get their dose of adrenaline. From the top of Mount Veliky Risnyak, which is the highest point of the park (1528 m), beautiful views of the vast untouched mountain nature... The climb route lasts a little over three hours, but the sight is worth it!
It is difficult to describe in a few paragraphs all the richness and beauty of the nature of the national parks of Croatia, each of which is worthy of separate praise publications. Just know that at any time of the year and anywhere in Croatia you can find something new and exciting, different from what you have seen before.
There was a time when Croatia was one of the most unexplored countries in Europe for tourists. With its natural beauty, beaches and many ancient cities, the spirit of the Mediterranean is perfect here. But times are changing, fearless European travelers and trendy resort patrons are beginning to open up new horizons that Croatia can easily offer. From chic coastal resorts to wild, rugged national parks, here's a selection of Croatia's most beautiful sights.
Historic cities and beautiful nature are just some of the main sights of croatia... The capital Zagreb is home to best museums countries, galleries, restaurants and shops. Centuries-old towns sprawl along the coast, with their harbors lined with Venetian-era stone buildings, while countless beaches offer guests activities such as scuba diving, jet skiing and windsurfing. Croatia's stunning Adriatic islands are a haven for sailors and those who simply want to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.Dalmatia and Dalmatian coast
The Dalmatian coast is legendary - it is actually one of the most dramatic and beautiful coastlines in Europe. The coastline extends hundreds of miles with steep cliffs and many islands. Once an outpost of the Venetian Empire, Dalmatia is known for its combination of Roman ruins, medieval architecture and dramatic scenery. Ride along this coast The best way explore the sights of Croatia. You will see many wonderful towns along the way. Charming architecture and historic complexes (including Diocletian's Palace), many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is also located on the coast, but deserves a separate mention. Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', it was once a wealthy and influential center. Today Dubrovnik is like a living museum, with numerous quaint churches and curious visitors strolling the pedestrian marble streets. It - gorgeous place, with tranquil cafes, sophisticated and trendy restaurants. Dubrovnik is replete with cultural history, the stunning architecture of the Old City Quarter, and the famous 2 km route along the city walls. George Bernard Shaw once wrote - “those who are looking for heaven on earth should come to Dubrovnik and find it”.
Dubrovnik is the most glamorous tourist place destination Croatia. Its gorgeous Old city surrounded by strong medieval walls and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Any sightseeing tour of the city should begin with bypassing the ramparts (their total length is almost two kilometers), which include fortresses, towers and ancient weapons. High on the walls you can enjoy amazing views of the old city rooftops and glittering waters Adriatic sea... Don't forget comfortable walking shoes, drinking water and a camera.
Brela beach
This selection of Croatian attractions will not do without beaches. The beach is located in Split, it is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. In 1968, the beach was crowned 'Champion of the Adriatic' due to its stunning clean waters, beautiful bays, breathtaking views and winding Victorian trails. The symbol of the beach is the Brela Stone - a large cliff of the last turquoise waters.
Mljet Island National Park
The island of Mljet is the most southeastern of the larger Adriatic islands in the Dalmatian region. In the northwestern part of the island there is a protected area - Mljet National Park. Unique beauty, with two salt lakes and rich flora. Rent a bike and explore the lakes, or take a walk through the vast forest that covers 78% of the island. you can also visit the Benedictine monastery and a small chapel. The island can be reached by ferry from the mainland, which will take an hour and a half, but the visit to Mljet Park is definitely worth it.
The western third of the island of Mljet is a protected national park covered with dense woodland. The park also includes two turquoise sea lakes with an islet that houses a 12th century Benedictine monastery. It can be visited by a special taxi boat. Popular with nature lovers, the park offers many attractions - numerous hiking trails cut through the woodland, and the nine-kilometer route covers the entire perimeter of the lakes. This route is ideal for walking or mountain biking. You can simply go for a swim, or rent a kayak to travel around the lake. A local culinary specialty is the specially prepared lobster. There is only one hotel on the island, but the locals rent rooms to visitors during the summer season. Mljet can be reached by ferry or catamaran from Dubrovnik.
Rovinj town
It is a small fishing port along the Istrian Peninsula that is rapidly becoming popular tourist resort... Rovinj can be called one of the most picturesque cities in the Mediterranean with many beautiful buildings, steep winding streets and islets off the coast. Some of the most famous sights include the Basilica of St. Euphemia and the Zletnja Forest Park.
The coastal town of Rovinj is located in northwestern Croatia on the Istrian peninsula. Cute pastel-colored buildings surround the fishing harbor, and at the top is a church with a graceful Venetian-era bell tower. Besides the nearby pebbly beach, a popular Croatian attraction is the Batana Ecomuseum on the waterfront, which tells the story of a wooden batana boat used by local fishermen. There are also many elegant hotels, high-quality seafood restaurants and art galleries. Locals speak a dialect that mixes Croatian and Italian. The closest airport to Rovinj is in Pula.
Island of Vis
Not surprisingly, Croatia's attractions include so many beaches and islands. Vis - amazing place located on the northernmost corner of the coast. With a population of 4,000, Vis is known as the gastronomic capital of the Adriatic. With fantastic restaurants nestled under Venetian architecture serving traditional Croatian food as well as pan-European cuisine, you will experience the Mediterranean as it was many years ago. Most of the island is covered with olive groves and vineyards, so the place is ideal for tourists who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Read more about the Croatian islands in a separate collection.
Zlatni Rat beach
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Croatia has long been recognized as one of the most ecologically clean corners of the planet. She is attractive with a healing climate, amazing coastline with excellent beaches, wonderful islands, as well as virgin nature, the picturesque landscapes of which are a fetish of true romantics and numerous amateur photographers.
The unique charm of this region is represented by natural parks - an invaluable asset, carefully protected by the state. There are 11 of them in the country, 8 of them have the status of national ones. Each of the reserves has its own flavor and endows visitors with its own emotions.
Even if you are not adventurous, we still recommend going there with a guided tour. This is an incomparable experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.
Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice National Park is truly a divine place. It is the oldest and most famous in Croatia and in the whole of south-eastern Europe.
The roar of falling water heard for kilometers in the area makes tourists in awe long before approaching the very entrance.
The park is a basin of the Korana River, which forms 16 cascades of karst lakes strung on top of each other, connected by 140 impressive waterfalls and kilometers of wooden bridges.
About ¾ of the entire territory is covered with beech and coniferous forests, which are more often inhabited by bears, wolves, roe deer and owls.
Location: near the town of Slunj, in the counties of Lika-Senj and Karlovac
Krka
The Krka River is a real natural phenomenon. Originating at the foot of Mount Dinara, it diligently paves the way to the Adriatic Sea, forming many lakes and waterfalls on its way.
Due to the rarest geological characteristics, rich fauna and stunning beauty, the area around Krka with an area of 109 km² was declared a National Park in 1985.
Its most famous waterfalls are Roski Slar (24 m)
I Skradinski Buk (22.5 m).
Location: v Central Dalmatia, the entrance is from Skradin or Lazovac.
Briune
Brijuni is an archipelago consisting of three large(Veli, Briun, Mali) and twelve small islands.
He won the sympathy of travelers as early as the beginning of the 20th century. Its mild climate, lush vegetation and tempting beauty still attract a huge number of tourists.
It is noteworthy that these lands have been inhabited since the Roman era, as evidenced by the remains of luxurious Roman villas, Byzantine castles and basilicas. After the end of World War II, the island of Veli Brijuni was the seat of Josip Brozo Tito, the permanent president of Yugoslavia.
Location: not far from west coast the Istrian peninsula, near the towns of Pula and Fažana.
Kornati
Kornats amaze with their impressive size (220 km²), grandeur and mesmerizing beauty.
A perfectly preserved marine ecosystem, a varied coastal landscape, the rarest representatives of flora and fauna - all this gave rise to natural site patronage was taken.
Kornati are 89 islands, islets and reefs with straits forming a network of labyrinths between rugged cliffs. Sea bottom abundant in shellfish and different kinds fish.
It is a paradise for divers, boaters and anyone looking for an oasis of seclusion in the midst of magnificent unspoiled nature.
Location: in Central Dalmatia, on the archipelago of the same name, the nearest cities are Sibenik and Zadar.
Mljet
Many researchers and experts believe that the island of Mljet was the very island of Ogygia, on which, according to Homer's famous poem "The Odyssey", the beautiful nymph Calypso for 7 years kept the king Odysseus by force.
The name itself testifies to the beauty of the island, in addition to its magnificent views. It is derived from the Greek word "Melite Nesos", which means "honey island".
In 1960, its western part was protected from human interference. There are two lakes with salt water
And the island of St. Mary, "stuffed" with historical sights.
Location: in the south of Croatia, near the Dubrovnik resort.
One can talk for a very long time about the uniqueness of the Croatian National Parks, but it's still better to make sure of it yourself.
Republic of Croatia (Croatian Republika Hrvatska) - a state in the south of Central Europe, partly in the west Balkan Peninsula, a former Soviet republic within Yugoslavia that became independent in 1991. The form of government is a parliamentary republic. The name of the country is derived from the ethnonym Croats.
Croatia's main protected natural attractions include eight national parks and eleven natural parks. The total area of national parks is 994 km², of which 235 km² are on the water surface. The concepts of "national park" and " nature Park»Are defined in clauses 11 and 13 of the Law on Nature Protection.
Kopački Rit (Croatian Kopački Rit) is a natural park in Baranja, in the eastern part of Croatia. It is located on the border with Serbia, northwest of the confluence of the Drava with the Danube and northeast of Osijek. The area of the park is 17,700 hectares.
Lonjsko polje (Croatian Lonjsko polje) is a natural park in Croatia, located in the southern part of the Moslavina region on the left bank of the Sava River, below the city of Sisak, in the place where the Lonia River flows into the Sava with several branches. Founded in 1998, it has an area of 50 600 hectares.
Medvednica (Croatian Medvednica) - mountain range north of Zagreb, popular place recreation for Zagreb residents. The maximum height is 1033 meters above sea level. 63% of the territory is covered with broad-leaved forest, the composition of which changes with height.
Zhumberak (Goryantsi, Slovenian Gorjanci, Croatian Žumberak, Žumberačka gora, Serb. Zhumberak) is a mountain range in northeastern Croatia and southeastern Slovenia. Highest point massif - Sveta Gera (Croatian Sveta Gera or Slovenian Trdinov vrh), 1181 m (1178 m),
Velebit is a mountain range in Croatia. The highest point of the massif is Mount Vaganski Vrh, 1757 m - one of the highest peaks country. The ridge stretches from northwest to southeast along the Adriatic Sea, separating the coast from the Lika region inland.
Vransko lake (Croatian Vransko jezero) is a lake in Croatia near the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Largest lake Croatia, is located 4 km east of the city of Biograd na Moru and 10 km north-west of the city of Vodice. The western part belongs to the county of Zadar,
- the most popular national park in Croatia, it is visited annually by about seven hundred thousand tourists, among them most of- these are foreigners, parks and Brijuni are twice behind in attendance, parks Paklenica, Kornat, Mljet, Risnjak also deserve attention.
Paklenica National Natural Park
Paklenica National Natural Park is located in northern Dalmatia in the Velebit mountains, it is part of the national park of the same name and goes to the coast of the Adriatic Sea. The most high mountain in the park Vaganski vrh 1757 meters and Sveto brdo 1753 meters. Tourists will be interested in the Paklenica karst caves, the Sveto Brdo and Vaganski vrh mountain peaks, as well as the Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica canyons. Unfortunately, the river in the small canyon has dried up today.
Northern Velebit National Park
The Northern Velebit National Park is located in the north of the mountain range of the same name, the area of the park is 109 square kilometers. Tourists will be able to follow the route of the Premužice stasis, take a walk in the local botanical garden, visit karst cave Luka, the mountain peaks of Rozanski kukovi and Hajdicki look absolutely stunning, but the highest mountain in the park is Zavizhan, crowned with a meteorological station.
Risnjak National Park
Risnjak National Park is located in Gorski Kotar in the north of Croatia, 15 kilometers from the Adriatic Sea, the nearest cities are Bakar and Chabar, the name of the park comes from the word lynx.
The highest mountain in the park is Veliki Risnjak with a height of 1528 meters and Sneznik 1506 meters. You can enter the park through the village of Crni Lug in the east.
Tourists are offered a 4 km long trail Crni Luge in a circle, the source of the Kupa River from Lake Kupeshko is notable. On the slope of Mount Veliki Risnjak, there is the house of Josip Kalasancie Schlosser-Klekovsky, a prominent Croatian botanist, just below there is Mount Sneznik, and there is also a remarkable building on the slope called Albakhariev House.
Mljet National Park
The park has an area of 109 square kilometers, on the river there are 7 cascades of waterfalls with a total height of 242 meters. Most high waterfall Skradinsky beech has a height of 46 meters, Manoilovats 32 meters, Miljachka Slap 24 meters, Bilushich Buk 22 meters, Roshki Slap 22.5 meters. Tourists will be able to visit the Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Krka and the Franciscan Monastery of Visovac, which is located on the island of the same name on the Krka River, and near the Skradinsky Buk waterfall there is an ethnographic museum with a washing machine powered by a waterfall and water mills.
