Boardwalks through the park Guide
Walk on Water: Explore Plitvice's Floating Boardwalks Guide
Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its cascading waterfalls, vibrant turquoise lakes, and lush forests. The park's unique feature is its network of wooden boardwalks that wind their way through and over the lakes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning scenery and get up close to the cascading waters. These boardwalks provide an unparalleled perspective, making you feel as though you're walking on water as you traverse this natural paradise. The Plitvice Lakes have been shaped over millennia by the natural processes of travertine deposition. The water, rich in dissolved limestone, flows over natural barriers, creating dams and terraces. As the water flows, it deposits calcium carbonate, forming the travertine barriers that create the lakes and waterfalls. This process is ongoing, constantly reshaping the landscape and creating new formations. The park was officially established as a national park in 1949 to protect this unique geological and ecological system. Visitors can explore the park via several well-marked trails, each offering different perspectives and levels of difficulty. The boardwalks are the main attraction, allowing you to walk alongside and even over the lakes and waterfalls. Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture the stunning beauty of the park. Boat tours are also available on Lake Kozjak, the largest of the lakes, providing a relaxing way to admire the scenery. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and allow ample time to explore this natural masterpiece.
Transportation
The most common way to reach Plitvice Lakes is by bus. Numerous bus companies operate routes from major Croatian cities like Zagreb, Split, and Zadar. From Zagreb, the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. From Split, it's around 3-4 hours. Once you arrive at the park entrance, you can navigate the park using the internal bus system that connects the upper and lower lakes.