Croatia is a land renowned for its history and culture. However, it is also rich in natural beauty. From inland forests to the coastline there are national parks sure to please the explorer that lives inside every traveler.
You ll find a wide array of national parks to explore in Croatia, from inland areas to national forests and national marine parks. How do you determine which are the best suited to your family? What parks offer the attractions that you most enjoy? Here are some of the top parks in the country, as well as what you can expect from each.
Brijuni National Park
This park is located in an archipelago of scenic islands. Once the site of vacation homes for Europe s aristocracies, the area is steeped in history, as well as natural beauty. Visit the Byzantine Castrum and Roman villa on Brijuni, explore the islands and enjoy the wide array of flora and fauna. Many of the plants and animals are not native to the area, being introduced by visiting royalty for their enjoyment. You will also find the Brijuni Fortress an impressive sight and well worth exploring. Netpun Hotel, Istra Hotel and Karmen Hotel are all located nearby.
Risnjak National Park
If you want mountain scenery, this park is for you. Situated on the other side of Kvarner, the Gorski Kotar rises to jagged peaks. The park is easily accessible to visitors and offers astounding views and tremendous beauty. You ll find more than 4,000 different plant species in the park, as well as bear, lynx, wild cats, boar, deer and wolves in the park. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country, as well as some of the most scenic views.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
The most well known of all Croatia s national parks, Plitvice Lakes offers 16 pristine lakes to explore, as well as panoramic views, rich woodlands of beech, fir and spruce. The Korana River flows through the area, offering whitewater rafting and viewing pleasure. The park is open year round, though visitors will find winter to be cold and icy. However, the lakes rarely freeze over and winter visitors enjoy the Lakes winter calm and tranquility. Nature lovers, hikers, kayakers and rafters will all find much enjoyment in this incredible area. In 2009 nearly one million visitors have enjoyed the splendor of Plitvice Lakes.
Paklenica National Park
Located in the Lika region, this park covers the Velebit mountain, including some of the tallest peaks in the range. The park, itself, is rather small when compared to some of Croatia s other parks, but it offers big enjoyment. Incredible plant and animal life await, including red deer, wild boar, roe deer, wolves, bears, lynx and chamois. Hikers and mountain lovers, as well as animal watchers will have an incredible time here.
Each of these National Parks in Croatia has its own flavor and personality. Each is worth the visit if you have the time – or you can pick and choose the one you prefer. Because no matter which of the parks you choose, you are certain to find it a wonderful experience in Croatia.
Author Resource:-
Drago Bubic is contributing author for Croatia Holidays and Travel site - http://www.aiptravel.com. You will find on this site a great collection of Croatia travel articles, photos and travelogues, as well as a lot of useful tips and advice, and Croatia getaway ideas for travelers.
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