There are many reasons why Croatia is such a seductive country, but two are maybe the most expressed ones. First one, the people, often praised for their hospitality and love towards others, and second are natural wonders this country possesses. It really is small, but almost every step of it brings something special to see – and today we bring you a complete guide to Plitvice Lakes.

Plitvice Lakes is one of the most visited attractions in Croatia. This unique UNESCO heritage site witnesses thousands of tourists every year with much more coming in months to follow. Last year alone, more than one million guests visited Plitvice. It is one of the oldest national parks in Southeastern Europe and the largest one in Croatia. Just recently, CNN media listed Plitvice as one of “12 incredible UNESCO sites”, although media coverage for this site isn’t an unusual thing. And due to huge interest among our guests, Hotel President has started to offer organised tours to Plitvice. Here is a complete guide to Plitvice Lakes we have prepared for you.

 

 

Plitvice are located in continental part of Croatia, less than two hour drive from Zagreb, whichever road you choose – highway is a bit faster option, but it lacks sights the “old road” grants. After around one hour drive from Zagreb you will arrive to Rastoke, a small village near Plitvice Lakes. It is a place where Frank Lloyd Wright would have probably stayed for a coffee, so you should too. Why? Because houses on the water are similar to the one he had, but these even have small waterfalls. These waterfalls are placed along the Slunjčica which flows into river Korana at this place, forming a really rare sight. After a coffee, and maybe even a swim in the lakes, you can continue to Plitvice which are only about 30 minute drive from Rastoke. Soon you arrive to Plitvice – and discover this wet and almost impossibly clean air filling your lungs, with nature completely preserved and untouched.

 

 

Plitvice Lakes are a multi-level system of 16 lakes which divide into waterfalls and small pools coloured in azure, green and blue colours. They are separated by natural dams of travertine, which is deposited by the action of moss, algae, and bacteria, with the water exiting from the lowest lake forming the Korana River. The national park area is also home to many endemic species which prevailed at the lakes long before the arrival of man. Lakes are divided into 12 Upper Lakes and 4 Lower Lakes, with Lake Kozjak being the biggest one. The largest waterfall descends from height of 78 meters! If you’re taking your camera with you, chances are you won’t let it out of your hands since there are sights anywhere you look. Some parts of this national park are even connected by boats, to ensure almost full coverage of Plitvice wonders. When you get hungry, there are a few good options to choose from. Our recommendation is to try specialties and home cooked meals in a restaurant called “Plitvice House”.

 

 

Often question is when to visit Plitvice, and we reckon the best time to visit is during spring when waterfalls are “blooming”. Once there, you can avoid the crowd by arriving before 9 a.m. Plitvice covers more than 296.85 square meters which, although it doesn’t sound like it, is a lot so make sure to grab some food and water from the Hotel. It is also advisable to choose a sunny day for your visit, otherwise you’ll miss some of the most stunning views which stretch kilometers away.  There are two main entries to the Park with many planned routes. Each one is special on its own way, but people usually prefer Trail C on Entrance Nr. 1 which takes about 4-6 hours to finish. As for the entrance ticket price, it varies a lot depending of the season, but it’s usually a bit under 30€ per adult in high season. During winter prices are lower, and the sights are equally as stunning when covered in snow. If you wish for a guided tour, that can be easily arranged by our Reception. If you are still unsure about what to think, maybe this Virtual tour could change your mind.

 

There are unfortunately no pictures or words that can precisely describe a place, actually not even close. Real experiences happen on places like this, so take some time off to enjoy this gift of nature, and we guarantee your pleasure. There are no unsatisfied on Plitvice Lakes…