Experience the Plitvice Lakes National Park: A guide to your perfect nature retreat

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most treasured natural wonders, celebrated for its crystal-clear lakes, stunning waterfalls, and unspoiled beauty. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it ranks among the world’s most extraordinary natural destinations. With numerous trails and routes to discover, Plitvice Lakes promise an unforgettable experience, showcasing the essence of nature’s splendor. This guide will help you make the most of your visit, from exploring breathtaking landscapes and savoring local cuisine to finding the perfect accommodation. Prepare for an adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

Visiting the National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park features eight thoughtfully designed tour programs, tailored to suit a variety of preferences and weather conditions. These trails lead visitors through the spectacular landscapes of the Lower and Upper Lakes, unveiling cascading waterfalls, charming wooden bridges, and panoramic viewpoints. Shorter tours like programs A, B, and F are ideal for leisurely walks along the waterfalls, while longer routes such as programs C and H encompass the entire lake area. For those who enjoy extended hikes, Program K offers a comprehensive exploration of all the lakes, starting from Entrances 1 or 2. Many routes combine walking with panoramic vehicle and electric boat rides, offering a multifaceted experience of nature’s wonders. No matter which program you choose, every step reveals something beautiful and unforgettable.

Friendly staff stationed at entrances and key locations are always available to help you plan your visit and uncover hidden gems. Highlights of the Upper Lakes include Veliki Prštavac, Mali Prštavac, and the newly opened Tomićevo pogledalo viewpoint, which offers stunning views of Prošćansko Lake. In the Lower Lakes, don’t miss the iconic Great Waterfall, the picturesque S-view, and the Milka Trnina Waterfalls. With numerous viewpoints and carefully chosen trails, every visit is a unique and magical experience.

Accommodation at Hotel Jezero

Nestled in the heart of Plitvice Lakes National Park near Entrance 2, Hotel Jezero is just steps from Kozjak Lake. Its prime location allows guests to immerse themselves in nature without needing a car, with unlimited park access included in their stay. The hotel provides comfortable accommodations, delicious gastronomic offerings, and a tranquil environment, making it perfect for families with children, couples, and anyone seeking peace and relaxation.

At Hotel Jezero, located in the heart of the park, guests can enjoy the ultimate green holiday experience. The hotel’s helpful staff pays great attention to every detail and will do everything to make every guest feel at home. A stay at this hotel is an ideal opportunity to fill your days with walks along the lakes and discovering the surrounding hiking and walking trails. And if, while enjoying the fresh air and relaxation, you happen to wish for some sports activities, there is a fitness center and a bowling alley at your disposal. For complete relaxation and regeneration of body and soul, the hotel guests have access to a whirlpool, Finnish sauna and Turkish steam bath. The hotel’s restaurant, with views of untouched nature, serves locally sourced specialties that reflect the rich culinary traditions of the region. For those traveling on business, the hotel also features a modern congress center equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. With comfortable accommodation, natural surroundings and a variety of facilities, the Hotel Jezero is a place to relax and escape from everyday life, providing a unique experience of staying in one of the world’s most beautiful national parks. Don’t miss the chance to stay here and create unforgettable memories!

Korana and Borje campsites: The perfect balance of nature and comfort

Camping provides a unique way to connect with nature while enjoying all the comforts needed for a pleasant stay. Korana and Borje Campsites, the official campsites of Plitvice Lakes National Park, are conveniently located near the park’s entrances, making them ideal bases for exploration of this protected area. Experience the beauty of nature to the fullest at the Korana and Borje Campsites, whether you choose the cozy comfort of a bungalow or the raw, authentic charm of sleeping under the open sky. For those who dream of drifting off beneath a blanket of stars, this is the perfect destination to unwind and connect with nature.

The Korana Campsite, situated along the scenic Korana River canyon, is one of the most beautiful destinations in continental Croatia. Extending over 35 hectares, it offers diverse accommodations, from cozy bungalows to spacious camping lots. Premium lots boast attractive locations with enhanced amenities, while standard lots provide a comfortable, nature-filled experience. Surrounded by lush greenery, the campsite allows each visitor to find their own quiet corner and to enjoy the relaxing environment. Well-equipped sanitary facilities, a restaurant with local specialties and a shop also ensure carefree camping; all the while the nature provides a real source of peace and relaxation. The Borje Camp is located in a fragrant pine forest, which creates a relaxing atmosphere and provides natural shade during hot summer days. The camp offers spacious camping lots, tailored to guests who wish to enjoy a simple, but pleasant stay in the outdoors. The proximity of the camp to major roads allows easy access to the National Park, while at the same time a sense of peace and connection with nature is preserved.

At the Korana and Borje Campsites, everyone has the chance to deeply connect with the surrounding nature. Strolling along the Korana River provides the perfect way to unwind and take in the stunning landscapes. Each trail brings unique discoveries, and every sunset paints a new and unforgettable picture. For biking enthusiasts, numerous trails wind through pristine natural surroundings, offering an ideal way to explore. Complement your stay with activities like hiking or birdwatching, as every moment under the starry sky carries a sense of boundless freedom. Camping here is the ultimate choice for those seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat, with an authentic connection to nature and convenient access to local attractions.

Whether visiting with family, as a couple, or with friends, the possibilities for enjoying your time are endless. Relax in the shade of pine trees or dive into active exploration of the breathtaking natural wonders surrounding the campsites. Here, every experience becomes a cherished memory.

Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024

Culinary delights

Whether you’re starting your adventure at Plitvice Lakes National Park or returning after from it, visiting one of the park’s restaurants offers the perfect chance to rest, savor authentic flavors, and recharge. At Entrance 1, the renowned Lička kuća restaurant brings the rich tradition of the Lika region to life. Its warm atmosphere and extensive menu of regional specialties create a dining experience steeped in heritage. Recognized in 2023 as one of the top 10% of restaurants worldwide by Travelers’ Choice® on Tripadvisor®, Lička kuća prioritizes quality and authenticity. Many of its dishes are crafted with locally sourced ingredients certified under the Lika Quality label, ensuring exceptional flavor and a connection to the region’s roots.

The inviting ambiance, infused with the scents and tastes of local cuisine, evokes cherished memories of Lika’s traditions. At Entrance 2, the newly opened Black River restaurant (established in 2024) offers a modern fine dining experience in an elegantly designed setting. Specializing in premium steaks, Mediterranean-inspired pasta, and a curated selection of charcuterie and cheeses, the Black River elevates dining to an art form. Pair your meal with a glass of fine wine, a refreshing beer, or a light cocktail while enjoying the relaxing lounge atmosphere. Conveniently located along the main state road, this steak and pasta house welcomes not only park visitors but also those passing through the area. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Lička kuća or indulge in the sophisticated elegance of Black River, both restaurants promise unforgettable culinary experiences that perfectly complement your visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

So, there you have it – Plitvice Lakes National park is not just a destination, but an unforgettable experience. While the lakes and waterfalls are the Park’s main attractions, its vast forest ecosystems also leave a lasting impression. Walks along the lakes and through the forests, with the sound of water and the scent of nature, offer the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. Whether you stay in a comfortable hotel or under the starry sky, the Park provides countless ways to connect with nature, complemented by local cuisine. And whether it’s your first visit or a return, each time brings something new, with stunning landscapes, changing seasons, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you back again and again.