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

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of them CroatiaCelebrated with crystal clear lakes, stunning waterfalls and unleashed beauty, the most precious natural wonders. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ranks among the world’s most extraordinary natural destinations. With numerous trails and routes to discover, Plitvice Lakes promises an unforgettable experience and introduces the essence of nature’s splendor. This guide will help you make the most of your visit, from exploring breathtaking scenery and tasting local cuisine to find the perfect accommodation. Get ready for a memorable adventure to last a lifetime!

Visiting the National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park has eight thoughtfully designed tour programs tailored to a variety of preferences and weather conditions. These trails guide visitors from the spectacular scenery of the lower and upper lakes, revealing cascade waterfalls, charming wooden bridges and panoramic perspectives. Short tours like Programs A, B, F are great for a leisurely stroll along the waterfall, while longer routes like Programs C and H cover the entire lake area. For those enjoying long hikes, Program K offers a comprehensive survey of all lakes starting at entrance 1 or 2. Many routes combine walking with panoramic cars and electric boat rides to provide a multi-faceted experience of nature’s incredibles. No matter which program you choose, every step reveals something beautiful and unforgettable.

Friendly staff stationed at the entrance and main locations are always available to help you plan your visit and discover hidden gems. Highlights of the Upper Lakes include Beliki Pristabak, Mari Pristabak and the newly opened Tomishebo Pogredaro perspective. Don’t miss the iconic Great Waterfall, the picturesque S-view and Milkatrinina Falls at Lower Lakes. With numerous perspectives and carefully selected trails, every visit is a unique and magical experience.

Hotel Jezero Accommodation

Located in the heart of Plitvice Lakes National Park near Entrance 2, Hotel Jezero is a staircase just off Kojak Lake. Its main location allows guests to immerse themselves in nature without the need for a car, and unlimited park access is included in their stay. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation, delicious gastronomy and a quiet environment, making it perfect for children, couples and families looking for peace and relaxation.

Located in the heart of the park, Hotel Jezero offers guests the ultimate green holiday experience. The helpful staff at the hotel pays great attention to every detail and do everything to ensure that every guest is at home. Staying at this hotel is the ideal opportunity to fill your days by strolling along the lake and discovering surrounding hiking and walking trails. And if you happen to want some sports activities while enjoying fresh air and relaxation, there is a fitness centre and bowling alley at your disposal. For complete relaxation and regeneration of the body and soul, hotel guests have access to vortex, Finnish saunas and Turkish steam baths. The hotel’s restaurants offer untouched natural scenery and offer locally produced specialties that reflect the region’s rich culinary traditions. For business travelers, the hotel also has a modern council centre with state-of-the-art facilities. With its comfortable accommodation, natural surroundings and a variety of facilities, Hotel Jezero is a place to relax and escape from everyday life, offering 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 between nature and comfort

Camping offers a unique way to connect with nature while enjoying all the comforts you need for a pleasant stay. Koranana and Borje Campsites, the official campsites of Plitvice Lakes National Park, are conveniently located near the park’s entrance, making them ideal bases for exploring this protected area. Whether you choose the cozy comfort of a bungalow or the raw, authentic charm of sleeping under the open sky, experience the greatest natural beauty at the campsites in Corna and Borge. For those who dream of drifting under a star blanket, this is a great destination to connect with nature.

Located along the scenic Kona River Gorge, Korana campsites are one of the most beautiful destinations on the continent of Croatia. With an extension of over 35 hectares, it offers a wide range of accommodation, from cozy bungalows to spacious camp plots. Premium lots offer attractive locations with enhanced amenities, while standard lots offer a comfortable, natural experience. Surrounded by lush greenery, each visitor can discover their own quiet corners and enjoy a relaxed environment. Well-equipped sanitation facilities, local specialty restaurants and shops also ensure carefree camping. Meanwhile, nature provides a real source of peace and relaxation. Located in a fragrant pine forest, Borje Camp creates a relaxing atmosphere and provides natural shade on hot summer days. The camp offers spacious camp plots to suit guests who want a simple and comfortable outdoor stay. The camp is close to major roads, making it easy to access the national parks, but at the same time preserves a sense of peace and connection with nature.

At the campsites in Korana and Borje, everyone has the opportunity to connect deeply with the surrounding nature. A walk along the Korana River provides a great way to unleash and adopt stunning scenery. Each trail brings unique discoveries, and every sunset paints a new, unforgettable picture. For bike enthusiasts, numerous trails offer an ideal way to pass and explore untouched natural environments. Every moment under the starry sky has an infinite sense of freedom, which complements your stay with activities such as hiking and bird watching. Camping here is the ultimate choice for those seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat, with authentic connections with nature and convenient access to local attractions.

Whether you visit with family, as a couple or with friends, the possibilities for enjoying your time are endless. Relax in the shade of pine trees or actively explore the breathtaking natural wonders surrounding the campsite. Here, all experiences become important memories.

The joy of cooking

Whether you’re starting your adventure at Plitvice Lakes National Park or returning from there, visiting one of the park’s restaurants offers a great opportunity to rest, taste authentic flavors and recharge. At Entrance 1, the famous Richukakusha restaurant brings out the rich traditions of the Rika region. Its warm atmosphere and extensive menu of local specialties create a heritage-infused dining experience. Recognised in 2023 as one of the top 10% worldwide on Travellers’ Choice® Tripadvisor®, Lička Kuća prioritizes quality and reliability. Much of its dishes are made from locally produced ingredients certified under the LIKA Quality label, ensuring an exceptional flavour and connection to local roots.

The charming atmosphere, infused with the aroma and flavor of local cuisine, evokes precious memories of the Rica tradition. At Entrance 2, the newly opened Black River Restaurant (established in 2024) offers modern, upscale restaurants in an elegantly designed environment. Specializing in premium steaks, Mediterranean-style pasta and a selection of curated Charcuterie and cheese, Black River elevates your meal into an art form. Pair your meal with fine wine, refreshing beer or light cocktails while enjoying the relaxed lounge atmosphere. Conveniently located along the main state highway, this steak and pasta home welcomes visitors as well as visitors passing through the area. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Richukakucha or indulge in the refined elegance of Black River, both restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary experience that perfectly complements your visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

So you have it – Plitvice Lakes National Park is not just a destination, it’s an unforgettable experience. The lake and waterfalls are the main attractions of the park, but its vast forest ecosystem also leaves a lasting impression. Walk along the lake, through the forest, with sounds of water and natural scents, providing the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re staying in a comfortable hotel or under the stars, the park offers countless ways to connect with nature, complemented by local cuisine. And whether it’s your first visit or a return, it brings something new each time. There is a stunning scenery, seasonal changes, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you over and over again.