Croatia walk through the national park. The most beautiful national parks in Croatia

The Republic of Croatia (Croatian Republika Hrvatska) is a state in the south of Central Europe, partly in the west of the Balkan Peninsula, a former federal republic within Yugoslavia, which became independent in 1991. The form of government is a parliamentary republic. The name of the country is derived from the ethnonym Croats.
Croatia's main protected natural attractions include eight national parks and eleven nature parks. total area national parks - 994 km², of which 235 km² are on the water surface. The concepts of “national park” and “ natural Park» are defined in paragraphs 11 and 13 of the Nature Conservation Law.

Kopački Rit (Croatian: Kopački Rit) is a nature park in Baranja, in the eastern part of Croatia. It is located on the border with Serbia, northwest of where the Drava flows into the Danube and northeast of Osijek. The park area is 17,700 hectares.


Lonjsko Polje (Croatian: Lonjsko polje) is a natural park in Croatia, located in the southern part of the Moslavina region on the left bank of the Sava River below the city of Sisak, at the place where the Lonja River flows into the Sava through several branches. Formed in 1998, it has an area of ​​50,600 hectares.


Medvednica (Croatian: Medvednica) - mountain range north of Zagreb, a popular holiday destination for Zagreb residents. The maximum height is 1033 meters above sea level. 63% of the territory is covered with deciduous forest, the composition of which varies with altitude.


Žumberak (Gorjanci, Slovenian Gorjanci, Croatian Žumberak, Žumberačka gora, Serbian Žumberak) is a mountain range in the north-east of Croatia and the south-east of Slovenia. Highest point massif - Sveta Gera (Croatian Sveta Gera or Slovenian Trdinov vrh), 1181 m (1178 m),


Velebit is a mountain range in Croatia. The highest point of the massif is Mount Vaganski Vrh, 1757 m - one of the highest peaks in the country. The ridge extends from northwest to southeast along Adriatic Sea, separating the coast from the Lika region inland.


Lake Vransko (Croatian: Vransko jezero) is a lake in Croatia near the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Largest lake Croatia, located 4 km east of the town of Biograd na Moru and 10 km northwest of the town of Vodice. The western part belongs to Zadar County,

- the most popular national park in Croatia, it is visited annually by about seven hundred thousand tourists, most of them are foreigners, the parks and Brijuni are two times behind in terms of attendance, the parks Paklenica, Kornat, Mljet, Risnjak also deserve attention.

Paklenica National Nature Park

The Paklenica National Nature Park is located in northern Dalmatia in the Velebit Mountains, is part of the national park of the same name and overlooks the Adriatic Sea coast. The most high mountain in Vaganski Vrh park 1757 meters and Sveto Brdo 1753 meters. Tourists will be interested in the Paklenica karst caves, the Sveto Brdo and Vaganski Vrh mountain peaks, as well as the Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica canyons. Unfortunately, the river in the small canyon has dried up today.

Northern Velebit National Park

National Park Northern Velebit is located in the north of the mountain range of the same name; the park area is 109 square kilometers. Tourists will be able to follow the Premuzhitsev Staza route, take a walk in the local botanical garden, visit karst cave Luki, the mountain peaks of Rozanski Kukovi and Hajdicki look absolutely stunning, but the highest mountain in the park is Zavižan, topped with a meteorological station.

Risnjak National Park

Risnjak National Park is located in Gorski Kotar in northern Croatia, 15 kilometers from the Adriatic Sea, the nearest cities are Bakar and Cabar, the name of the park comes from the word lynx.

The highest mountain in the park is Veliki Risnjak with a height of 1528 meters and Sneznik with a height of 1506 meters. You can enter the park through the village of Crni Lug, in the east.

Tourists are offered a 4-kilometer-long trail from Crni-Luga in a circle; the source of the Kupa River from Lake Kupeshko is noteworthy. On the slope of Mount Veliki Risnjak there is the house of Josip Kalasancie Schlosser-Klekovsky, a prominent Croatian botanist, just below there is Mount Sneznik, there is also a remarkable building on the slope called Albahari's House.

Mljet National Park

The park has an area of ​​109 square kilometers, on the river there are 7 cascades of waterfalls with total height 242 meters. Most high waterfall Skradinski buk has a height of 46 meters, Manoilovac 32 meters, Miljačka Slap 24 meters, Bilusic Buk 22 meters, Roški Slap 22.5 meters. Tourists will be able to visit the Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Krka and the Franciscan Monastery of Visovac, which is located on the island of the same name on the Krka River, and near the Skradinski Buk waterfall there is an ethnographic museum with a waterfall-powered washing machine and water mills.

Croatia's natural resources are large: 9.2% of the land and 1% of the sea are under state protection. This includes eight National Parks, ten nature reserves, 73 separate reservations, 23 forest parks, 75 natural monuments and 120 landscape gardening monuments, as well as 380 species of fauna and 44 species of flora.

Panorama of the river and canyons. National Park "KRKA"

Dinosaurs also loved him. National Park "BRIUNY"

On 14 islands near the Istrian peninsula, time seems to have stood still. Dense forests, ancient oaks, alleys of fir and cypress trees, an olive tree that is 1600 years old... This is a real little paradise, where lush flora, rich fauna, modern comfortable hotels and historical monuments, among which are the ruins of the summer residence of the Roman emperors and buildings from the Venetian era. On Brijuni you can relax in the shade of the trees and watch how pheasants, chamois and deer roam freely around the island. Meanwhile, according to paleontologists, dinosaurs once lived here.

Playgrounds for athletes who love nature. National Park "PAKLENICA"

The area between the highest peak, Velebit, and the sea was declared a national park in 1959. The canyons of the Bolshaya and Malaya Paklenitsa rivers are unique. The cliff, more than 400 meters high, waterfalls and rocky landscapes create an atmosphere imbued with drama. This area is a real challenge for climbers, explorers and scientists. Bird lovers admire the hawks and eagles (including a famous colony of bald eagles), while walkers, climbers and rock climbers admire the rocks, mountain peaks and canyons.

The wonderful world of water. National Park "MLET"

It is located on beautiful island southwest of Dubrovnik. It is covered with coniferous forests, olive trees and vineyards. There are many lakes with islands on Mljet. It is rich in numerous cultural monuments, including the 12th century Benedictine monastery on the islet of St. Mary, and the remains of a Roman palace and basilica in Polac. Tourists can explore the island by bike, canoe, kayak and car. The bays of the towns of Polacha and Pomena are especially attractive for yachtsmen.

Lakes with a cinematic past. National Park "PLITVICK LAKES"

Those who have seen films “about Indians” with the participation of Gojko Mitic are familiar with this region - many films of the famous series based on the works of Karl May were filmed here, in unique live settings. With 16 lakes connected by waterfalls, this national park looks like a landscape from a fairy tale. On its territory there are many dense beech, larch, pine forests, juniper thickets, in which over 120 species of birds live. Athletes from more than 15 countries meet here every June to participate in the Plitvice Marathon, which takes place in the national park. Plitvice Lakes have been on the UNESCO List of World Cultural Heritage since 1979.

Kingdom of a Hundred Lakes. National Park "Kornati"

A mountain world for botany lovers. National Park "NORTHERN VELEBIT"

This area covering the largest part of the Northern Velebit mountain range, was declared a National Park in 1999. Its territory has preserved the integrity and stability of the ecological system to this day. In the very center of the park are the Rozanski Kuk and Hajduchki Kuk nature reserves with limestone stones and interestingly shaped rocks, one of the deepest Lukina Cave in the world and the rich Velebit Botanical Garden.

The highest happiness for researchers. National Park "RISNYAK"

The territory of this park begins near the city of Rijeka and extends all the way to the border with Slovenia. Here, on a large area, there are a number of natural phenomena and there is not a single tourist site. "Risnyak" is a rare place with truly untouched mountain nature, which is especially magnificent in spring. The most high peak Risnyak (1528 m), and the lowest point of the park in the valley of the Kupa River 195 meters.

Source "Colors of Croatian tourism"

There was a time when Croatia was one of the most unexplored countries in Europe. With its natural beauty, beaches and many ancient towns, it has the perfect Mediterranean feel. But as times change, intrepid European travelers and fashionable resort-goers are beginning to discover the new horizons that Croatia has to offer. From chic coastal resorts to wild, rugged national parks, here's a selection of Croatia's most beautiful sights.

Historical cities and beautiful nature are just some of the main attractions of Croatia. The capital Zagreb is the birthplace best museums countries, galleries, restaurants and shops. Centuries-old towns line the coastline, their harbors lined with Venetian-era stone buildings, while countless beaches offer activities such as scuba diving, water skiing and windsurfing. The stunning islands of Croatia on the Adriatic are a haven for yachtsmen and those simply wanting to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.
Dalmatia and the Dalmatian Coast

The Dalmatian coast is legendary - it is in fact one of the most dramatic and beautiful coastlines in Europe. The coastline extends for hundreds of miles with steep cliffs and many islands. Once an outpost of the Venetian Empire, Dalmatia is famous for the combination of its Roman ruins, medieval architecture and dramatic landscape. A trip along this coast - The best way explore the sights of Croatia. You will see many wonderful towns along the way. Charming architecture and historical sites (including Diocletian's Palace), many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is also located on the coast, but deserves a special mention. Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', it was once a wealthy and influential centre. Today, Dubrovnik is like a living museum, with numerous quaint churches and curious visitors strolling along the pedestrian marble streets. It's a chic place, with relaxed cafes, gourmet and trendy restaurants. Dubrovnik is colorful cultural history, the stunning architecture of the Old City Quarter, and the famous 2 km route along the city walls. George Bernard Shaw once wrote: “those who seek heaven on earth must come to Dubrovnik and find it.”


Dubrovnik is Croatia's most glamorous tourist destination. Its gorgeous Old city surrounded by strong medieval walls and declared a world heritage UNESCO. Any sightseeing tour of the city should begin with a walk around the ramparts (their total length is almost two kilometers), which include fortresses, towers and ancient guns. High on the walls you can enjoy amazing views of the old city roofs and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea. Do not forget comfortable shoes for walking, drinking water and a camera.

Brela Beach

This selection of Croatian attractions will not include beaches. The beach is located in Split, it is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. In 1968 the beach was crowned 'Champion of the Adriatic' due to its stunning clean waters, beautiful coves, breathtaking views and winding Victorian trails. The symbol of the beach is the Brela Stone - big rock after the turquoise waters.

Mljet Island National Park

The island of Mljet is the most south-eastern of the larger Adriatic islands in the Dalmatian region. In the northwestern part of the island there is a protected area – Mljet National Park. Unique beauty, with two salt lakes and rich flora. Rent a bike and explore the lakes and take a walk through the vast forest that covers 78% of the island. You can also visit the Benedictine monastery and small chapel. The island can be reached by ferry from the mainland, which takes an hour and a half, but a visit to Mljet Park is definitely worth it.


The western third of the island of Mljet is a protected national park covered in dense woodland. The park also includes two turquoise sea lakes with an islet where a 12th-century Benedictine monastery is located. It can be visited by a special taxi boat. Popular with nature lovers, the park offers a variety of activities - numerous hiking trails cut through the wooded area, and the nine-kilometer route covers the entire perimeter of the lakes. This route is ideal for walking or mountain biking. You can simply go for a swim, or rent a kayak to explore the lake. A local culinary specialty is specially prepared lobster. There is only one hotel on the island, but locals rent out rooms to visitors summer season. Mljet can be reached by ferry or catamaran from Dubrovnik.

City of Rovinj

This is a small fishing port located along the Istrian Peninsula, which is quickly becoming a popular tourist resort. Rovinj can be called one of the most picturesque cities in the Mediterranean with many beautiful buildings, steep winding streets and islets off the coast. Some of the most famous attractions include the Basilica of St. Euphemia and the Zletní Forest Park.


In northwestern Croatia, on the Istrian peninsula, lies the coastal city of Rovinj. Pretty pastel-colored buildings surround the fishing harbour, and at the top is a church with an elegant Venetian-era bell tower. Besides the nearby pebble beach, a popular attraction in Croatia is the Batana Ecomuseum on the waterfront, which tells the story of the Batana wooden boat used by local fishermen. There are also many elegant hotels, high-quality seafood restaurants and art galleries. Locals speak a dialect that mixes Croatian and Italian languages. The closest airport to Rovinj is in Pula.

Island of Vis

It's no surprise that Croatia's attractions include so many beaches and islands. Vis - amazing place, located on the northernmost corner of the coast. With a population of 4,000 people, Vis is known as the gastronomic capital of the Adriatic. With fantastic restaurants nestled under Venetian architecture serving traditional Croatian food as well as pan-European cuisine, you will experience the Mediterranean as it was many years ago. Most of The island is covered with olive groves and vineyards, making the place ideal for tourists who want to relax from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Read more about the islands of Croatia in a separate collection.

Zlatni Rat beach

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Croatia ‹ Nature Reserves and Parks

Reserves and national parks of Croatia

State reserves of Croatia

Even on a European scale, Croatia is a small country. All the more surprising is such a large number of state reserves. It must be said that this surprises only those who have not seen them and who do not know to what extent our nature is beautiful and preserved.

On the Adriatic, the State Nature Reserve is undoubtedly dominant Kornati- the most rugged island group in the Mediterranean, numbering about 140 uninhabited islands, islands and rocks. This is a real labyrinth in the sea, famous for its high cliffs and unusual relief formations. The Kornati archipelago is a favorite destination for yachtsmen.

Part of the southern slope of Croatia's largest mountain range, Velebit (as part of the Nature Park), from the peak to the coast is covered by a State Nature Reserve Paklenica. It takes its name from Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica, two impressive mountain passes with many unusual karst landforms and several caves. Thanks to the exceptional wealth of flora and fauna and numerous endemic species, Velebit has been declared a world biosphere reserve, and its peak part is a state reserve. This park covers the Rožanski and Hajducčki Kukovi nature reserves with unusual karst formations and Lukina Cave, one of the deepest in the world, as well as the famous Velebit Botanical Garden.

Close to west coast The Istrian peninsula is a State Nature Reserve Brijuni, consisting of two large and twelve smaller islands. The Mediterranean vegetation is well represented here, there is an outdoor zoo, and interesting excavations from the era of ancient culture.

State reserve Risnjak- a wooded mountain range north of the port of Rijeka. In the places where the Alps and Dinarides meet, you can meet brown bear, lynx, mountain goat, deer, snake eagle...

State reserve Krka covers the course of the Krka River - our most beautiful karst river flowing along deep canyons. Of the many cascades, the Skradinski buk and Roški cascades stand out, between which in the lake-like part of the river there is the island of Visovac with a Franciscan monastery (15th century).

The most beautiful and most famous Croatian state reserve Plitvice Lakes is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located not far from the main road connecting Zagreb with Dalmatia. The phenomenon consists of 16 small lakes interconnected by cascades, which were formed as a result of limestone deposition. The dense beech and spruce forests, at times reminiscent of taiga, in which numerous animal species (brown bear) have been preserved, are valuable; Transportation by special panoramic cars and electric boats is organized for visitors.

Southwest of the city Dubrovnik the island is located Mljet, The state reserve covers it western part with two deep bays, which, due to a very narrow passage to the open sea, are called lakes; lush Mediterranean vegetation, valuable ancient monuments and a 12th-century Benedictine monastery on an island in the middle of the lake-bay.

Nature parks in Croatia:

Along with the already mentioned Velebit, this is also:

BIOKOVO is an impressive karst mountain located directly next to the sea above the Makarska Riviera, with a rich variety of flora and fauna and a beautiful panorama. Among the animals, mountain goats are especially notable.

KOPAČKI RIT is a large natural marshy area at the confluence of the Drava River with the Danube with an exceptional wealth of diverse plant and animal species, especially fish and wading birds. Dense forest, numerous herds of deer and wild boars.

LONA POLE is a marshy area next to the Sava River between the town of Sisak and Nova Gradiška, one of the largest preserved marshes in Europe with endless oak forests. Among the bird fauna, storks are of particular interest; they nest on the roofs of local wooden rural houses,

Medvednica is a mountain range in close proximity to the capital of Croatia, Zagreb, thanks to well-preserved beech and spruce forests and many different natural phenomena(caves, waterfalls, canyons). Medvednica has become the main recreational part of Zagreb.

TELAŠČICA - southwestern part of Dugoga island in Central Dalmatia with a wide and deep bay of the same name - a popular destination for yachtsmen. There are several beautiful islands in the bay, and next to the sea there is a small salt Lake, on the open sea side are the highest Croatian sheer cliffs, whose height reaches 180 meters.