Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia: reviews of tourists and photos

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia ... About this place, of course, not just once had to hear almost every modern traveler. What attracts tourists from all over the world? Stunning nature? Great service? And perhaps, a combination of both factors? Let's try to figure it out together.

Plitvice Lakes. Croatia - the cleanest and most picturesque corner of the globe

This national park, which is popular with both local residents and visitors, is geographically located in the center of Croatia, mainly in Litsko-Senj County. Only a small part of it, about 9%, is attributed to the neighboring region - Karlovatsky.

Geologists argue that the Plitvice Lakes (Croatia) were formed due to the waters of the Koran River. They, flowing through limestone for hundreds of years, put up barriers and formed natural dams. As a result of all these processes, after a certain time period, there was a picturesque system of lakes, mysterious caves and mesmerizing waterfalls.

Let's take a look at the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia is rightly considered one of the most visited places of the globe, and since 1979 the mentioned park is also in the register of "UNESCO World Heritage".

How to get to the destination

Of course, the answer to this question directly depends on what kind of transport the traveler was going to use. Although, probably, immediately it is worthwhile to warn that the planes do not fly here, and hardly anyone will ever decide to build an airport among such riot of pristine nature. The railway is also not laid. There are only the buses and cars that are familiar to us.

Note that the attraction is in a very remote corner of the country, and therefore to a long journey from the coastal resorts should be prepared in advance. For example, to get to the lakes from the "Dubrovnik" or "Western Istria", it will take at least 5 hours (of course, one way).

The ideal option is to rent a car. Then, with a modern navigator, there is a chance to find yourself on the spot in 3-4 hours. If this is not possible, you should simply book an excursion directly to the coast, the hotel or any travel agency at the place of rest. Fortunately, in recent years, more and more often there are staff who know if not Russian, then at least English. In general, you can agree.

Excursus in the history: how it all began

In general, the idea of attracting foreign tourists to this part of the country arose relatively recently, in 1983. And immediately there was not only a lot of people wishing to admire the waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes (Croatia, of course, is famous not only for waterfalls, but the spectacle still fascinates), but also numerous patrons who are ready to invest colossal amounts in the development of the region.

In a short time, even had to develop a special program for the development of the reserve. Within the framework of the project, swimming means were purchased to organize recreation on the water, trails for tourists were created, who were eager to walk on foot and without guide, pits and picnic places were built, a new modern hotel was built. In the press, after a large-scale campaign, they gave extensive advertising.

This approach turned out to be very profitable, and the results did not take long. Not only ordinary travelers rushed to the park, but important personalities as well. For example, Ivo Josipovic, the current president of the Republic of Croatia, Plitvice Lakes, considers it a great place not only for recreation, but also for holding various kinds of business meetings, conferences and meetings.

The tragic milestones of history

Now few people will doubt that one of the most pleasant and inexpensive forms of recreation in Europe can offer is Croatia. The Plitvice Lakes Reserve and its immense popularity are another confirmation of this statement. However, this amazing place had to go through a real tragedy.

Just over 20 years ago, in 1991, the reserve was not only once a place of armed clashes between those who took an active part in the Yugoslav war. Here blood was shed as national heroes, and ordinary citizens of this small but amazing country.

About the so-called Bloody Passover now can tell any tourist, even the smallest Croat.

Plitvice Lakes National Reserve: Croatia, worth visiting. Tips and Tricks

First of all, we note that the park is a multi-level park, that is, it starts at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, but gradually the tourist, without knowing it, climbs up to 1200. What follows from this? According to experienced travelers, it is recommended to take care of comfortable shoes in advance: ballet shoes and heels will necessarily spoil the walk.

The National Park Plitvice Lakes offers a variety of hiking trails. However, before you start, it's worth trying to adequately calculate your own physical abilities. For example, elderly travelers or young parents with small children will get a short trail, which can be overcome in 2 hours, or even use the services of an electric train. Strong and hardy certainly go for a 7-8-hour walk.

Do not be afraid to get lost. Even if a tourist happens to be in the park without a map or an experienced escort, it will not be possible to get lost anyway. Why? Everything is extremely simple: at each fork, a pointer or special navigation board is installed.

Hazard Dangers

Local residents warn against a thoughtless move 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 the breeding of offspring.

Often, in an effort to see trout or just admire the clear blue water, tourists come to the edge of the pond very close. Doing this without observing even the elementary rules of security is definitely not worth it: the mountain lakes of Croatia are not only cold, but also very deep.

What you should pay attention to

We are all accustomed to the fact that the presence of a body of water, as it were, implies further water procedures, which means that when you go on an excursion, you must definitely take bathing accessories with you. However, it is forbidden to swim here.

It's a shame, of course, but there are also positive aspects. Agree, this is actually almost the only way to preserve nature in its original form.

In addition, you should not expect that after choosing to rest in such a park, you will install a tent, light a fire, install a brazier and take up the long-awaited preparation of shish kebabs. You can try, of course, but the fine for such a gross violation of the rules will be exposed to considerable.

A gift for a true amateur photographer

Have you ever seen pictures taken at the Plitvice Lakes? Experts argue that even beginners are able to click on excellent shots. And all thanks to a very successful and soft light. And this phenomenon is observed at any time of year and under absolutely different weather.

So, even if you do not possess 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 be the decoration of any family album.

How to properly plan a day on the lakes

To familiarize with the reserve, as recommended by guides, for a couple of hours in general is unrealistic. It is worth to be among this magnificence, as almost immediately there is a desire to spend here as much time as possible, and even not to leave at all. Experienced travelers claim: if some place on the planet and can surprise, it's Croatia! Plitvice Lakes ... Rest here requires the dimensionality, slowness and full immersion in nature. But on the seaside resorts there is always fun and fuss.

Most likely, a traveler who wants to get acquainted with the reserve closer, will need to spend the night in its territory. However, this fact should in no case be alarming or repulsive. In the vicinity, three hotels have been built, each of which expects its visitors throughout the year. However, those who are going to visit the reservoirs in the so-called high season, it is necessary to take care of their lodging in advance, otherwise none of the hotels may simply not be available for vacant rooms.

The price policy is very, very acceptable. The night will cost the lodger about 70 euros. Agree, taking into account the European prices, it's not so expensive.