Plitvice Lakes, Croatia… Of course, almost every modern traveler has heard about this place more than once. What attracts tourists from all over the world here? Amazing nature? Great service? Or maybe a combination of both factors? Let's try to figure it out together.
Plitvice lakes. Croatia is the cleanest and most picturesque corner of the globe
This national park, beloved by both locals and guests of the country, is geographically located in the center of Croatia, mainly in Litsko-Senj County. Only a small part of it, about 9%, belongs to the neighboring region - Karlovac.
Geologists say that the Plitvice Lakes (Croatia) were formed thanks to the waters of the Koran River. They, flowing through limestone for hundreds of years, applied barriers and formed natural dams. As a result of all these processes, after a certain time period, a most picturesque system of lakes, mysterious caves and bewitching waterfalls arose.
Let's take a look atPlitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia is rightfully considered one of the most visited places in the world, and since 1979 the mentioned park has also been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Register.
How to get to your destination
Of course, the answer to this question directly depends on what mode of transport the traveler is going to use. Although, probably, it is worth immediately warning that planes do not fly here, and it is unlikely that anyone will ever decide to build an airport among such a riot of pristine nature. The railroad was also not built. Only the buses and cars we are accustomed to remain.
Note that the attraction is located in a very remote corner of the country, and therefore it is worth preparing in advance for a long journey from coastal resorts. For example, to get to the lakes from "Dubrovnik" or "Western Istria", it will take at least 5 hours (of course, one way).
Ideal is to use a rental car. Then, with a modern navigator, there is a chance to find yourself in place in 3-4 hours. If this is not possible, you should simply book an excursion right on the coast, in a hotel or in any travel agency at the place of rest. Fortunately, in recent years, more and more often there are staff who speak, if not Russian, then at least English. In general, it is possible to agree.
A trip to history: how it all began
Generally an ideaattracting foreign tourists to this part of the country emerged relatively recently, in 1983. And immediately there were not only a lot of people who wanted to admire the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes (Croatia, of course, is famous not only for waterfalls, but the sight is still mesmerizing), but also numerous patrons who were ready to invest huge sums in the development of the region.
In a short time, we even had to develop a special program for the development of the reserve. Within the framework of the project, swimming equipment was purchased for organizing recreation on the water, trails were laid for tourists eager to walk on foot and without a guide, campfires and picnic areas were equipped, and a new modern hotel was built. In the press, after a large-scale action, they gave extensive advertising.
This approach turned out to be very profitable, and the results were not long in coming. Not only ordinary travelers, but also important people rushed to the park. For example, Ivo Josipovic, the current President of the Republic of Croatia, considers Plitvice Lakes a great place not only for recreation, but also for holding various kinds of business meetings, conferences and meetings.
Tragic milestones in history
Now few people will doubt that one of the most pleasant and inexpensive types of recreation in Europe can be offered exactly by Croatia. The Plitvice Lakes Nature Reserve and its huge popularity is another confirmation of this statement. However, this amazing place also had to endure a real tragedy.
Just over 20 yearsBack in 1991, the reserve more than once became the site of armed clashes between those who took an active part in the Yugoslav war. The blood of both national heroes and ordinary citizens of this small but amazing country was shed here.
Any, even the smallest Croatian, can now tell a tourist about the so-called Bloody Easter.
Plitvice Lakes National Reserve: Croatia worth a visit. Tips & Tricks
First of all, we note that the park is multi-level, that is, it begins at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, but gradually the tourist, without knowing it, climbs to 1200. What follows from this? According to experienced travelers, it is recommended to take care of comfortable shoes in advance: ballet flats and heels will definitely spoil the walk.
Plitvice Lakes National Park offers many hiking trails. However, before you hit the road, you should try to adequately calculate your own physical capabilities. For example, for older travelers or young parents with young children, a short trail is suitable, which can be overcome in 2 hours, or even use the services of an electric train. The strong and hardy will definitely go for a 7-8 hour walk.
Don't be afraid to get lost. Even if a tourist accidentally ends up in the park without a map or an experienced guide, you still won’t get lost. Why? Everything is extremely simple: at each fork there is a pointer or a special navigationshield.
Pending Dangers
Local residents warn against mindless movement through the park. The thing is that, in addition to the presence of poisonous plants, many wild animals live in the park, and some can be very aggressive during the mating season or during breeding.
Often, in an effort to see trout or just admire the clear blue water, tourists come very close to the edge of the reservoir. Doing this without observing at least elementary safety rules is definitely not worth it: the mountain lakes of Croatia are not only cold, but also very deep.
What to look out for
We are all used to the fact that the presence of a reservoir, as it were, by itself implies further water procedures, which means that when going on an excursion, you definitely need to take bathing accessories with you. However, swimming is prohibited here.
It's a shame, of course, but there are positive aspects to this. Agree, this is actually almost the only way to preserve nature in its original form.
Besides, you should not count on the fact that when you get out to rest in such a park, you will set up a tent, light a fire, set up a barbecue and start the long-awaited cooking of shish kebabs. Of course, you can try, but the fine for such a gross violation of the rules will be considerable.
A gift for a true amateur photographer
Have you ever seen pictures taken on the Plitvice Lakes? Experts say that even beginners are able tosnap great shots. And all thanks to a very successful and soft light. Moreover, this phenomenon is observed at any time of the year and in completely different weather.
So, even if you do not have professional skills, and the quality of the camera leaves much to be desired, still replenish your collection with memorable pictures with the inscription: “Plitvice Lakes. Croatia . The photo will surely become a decoration of any family album.
How to plan a day on the lakes
To get acquainted with the reserve, as the guides recommend, in a couple of hours is generally unrealistic. It is worth finding yourself among this splendor, as almost immediately there is a desire to spend as much time as possible here, or even not to leave at all. Experienced travelers say: if any place on the planet can surprise, it is Croatia! Plitvice Lakes… Rest here requires measured, unhurried and complete immersion in nature. But at the seaside resorts there is always fun and bustle.
Most likely, a traveler who wants to get to know the reserve better will need to spend the night on its territory. However, this fact should in no way be alarming or repulsive. Three hotels were built in the vicinity at once, each of which expects its visitors throughout the year. However, those who are going to visit the reservoirs in the so-called high season should take care of their accommodation in advance, otherwise none of the hotels may simply notbe available.
Price policy is very, very acceptable. A night will cost the guest approximately 70 euros. Agree, taking into account European prices, it is not so expensive.
