NEED TO KNOW
LOCATION Plitvice Lakes National Park is 68 miles (110 km) southwest of Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb
NUMBER OF LAKES 16
DAYTIME TEMPERATURES
Jan: 30°F (-1°C); Apr: 52°F (11°C); Jul: 72°F (22°C); Oct: 55°F (13°C)
Nature’s own champagne pyramid, Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes are arranged on stepped limestone terraces that are linked to one another by a series of rapids and waterfalls. The views across these overflowing pools and sparkling white cascades to Eden-like emerald forest are mesmerizing. The lakes change hue constantly, from deep blue to azure, green, and gray, according to sunlight and changing mineral content. These tumbling pools lie in Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also home to threatened fauna, including bears, wolves, and lynx.
Practical Information
Getting There and Around International flights arrive at Zagreb, from where buses and coaches run to the national park. The best way to get around the lakes is by hiking, but there are also boat and bus services.
When to Go Aim to travel here in late September, when temperatures are pleasant and the fall colors truly amazing.