Discover 19 national and nature parks in Croatia—from Plitvice to Kornati—where preserved wild beauty meets visitor-friendly adventure.

Croatia is blessed with extraordinary natural beauty, and its national and nature parks stand as proud guardians of this wild heritage. From the iconic Plitvice Lakes and cascading Krka waterfalls to the island-studded Kornati archipelago, these parks showcase the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Thanks to decades of dedicated nature protection, these areas have been preserved from urbanization, allowing their ecosystems to thrive. Beyond their ecological importance, Croatia’s 19 national and nature parks offer well-developed tourist infrastructure and a chance to explore some of the country’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

Welcoming over 4 million visitors each year, these protected areas invite you to experience the wild side of Croatia—up close and unforgettable.

Nature of Croatia

When it comes to biodiversity, Croatia ranks among the richest countries in Europe. With over 38,265 recorded species, including 1,089 endemics, the country is a true ecological treasure. Croatia holds the third place in Europe for the ratio of land surface to number of flora species, and is eighth in mammal diversity.

Among Europe’s five large carnivores, three roam Croatia’s wild landscapes: the wolf (Canis lupus), lynx (Lynx lynx), and brown bear (Ursus arctos).

The Nature Parks System in Croatia

Croatia is home to 19 protected parks—a mix of national parks and nature parks, each offering unique landscapes and rich biodiversity. According to IUCN categories, these parks enjoy a high level of protection, ensuring long-term preservation of the country’s natural heritage.

The distinction lies in their protection status:

• National parks are strictly protected areas, where conservation is the top priority.

• Nature parks have a softer level of protection, allowing for sustainable economic activities such as traditional agriculture or tourism, under strict regulations.

Regardless of category, basic rules apply across all parks:

• Do not harm flora or fauna

• No open fires or unauthorized camping

• Respect marked trails and zones

In addition, each park has its own set of rules, so always check and follow on-site signage and visitor guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful experience—for both you and the nature you’re exploring.

Entrance Fees & Pricing

Entrance fees to Croatia’s national parks vary greatly, depending on the park’s popularity, size, and the services included.

The most visited parks—such as Plitvice Lakes, Krka, and Brijuni—come with higher ticket prices, especially during peak season. Standard entrance fees for adults can range from €10 to over €40. Exclusive experiences, such as private boat tours in Brijuni, can cost several hundred euros, especially when booked through luxury providers.

On the other end of the spectrum, less-frequented and remote parks like Sjeverni Velebit offer minimal entry fees, often as low as €5–€7, making them a great choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking raw nature and solitude.

Nature parks, however, are generally much more affordable, with many offering free access to trails. Fees, when applicable, are usually for guided tours, educational programs, or entry to specific areas like visitor centers or wetlands with boardwalks.

💡 Tip: Always check the official park website for up-to-date prices, seasonal changes, and available discounts for students, seniors, or multi-day passes.

Best Time to Visit: Seasons in the Parks

The high season in Croatia’s national and nature parks runs from June to September. During this period, popular spots like Skradinski Buk in Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes can get very crowded, especially midday and on weekends.

For a more serene experience, spring (April to early June) is often the best time to visit.
The rivers and waterfalls are full, the vegetation is lush and vibrant, and the temperatures are mild—perfect for hiking, photography, and exploring without the summer rush.

Autumn (late September to October) is also a lovely time, especially for colorful foliage and peaceful trails, though some facilities may have reduced hours.

💡 Tip: Avoid peak hours (10 AM – 3 PM) during summer, and try early morning or late afternoon visits for a quieter, more magical atmosphere.

THE LIST OF THE PARKS:

Brijuni National Park

A blend of pristine nature and refined luxury, Brijuni National Park is perhaps the most unique of all Croatia’s national parks. Here, wild landscapes meet manicured lawns, and Mediterranean wildlife roams near historic villas and hotels. It’s a place where zebras graze, yachts glide, and ancient Roman ruins lie quietly among pine forests.

Brijuni’s story stretches far back—inhabited long before the Romans, the island flourished during antiquity, only to be depopulated in medieval times. It was revived in the 19th century by Austrian industrialist Paul Kupelwieser, who transformed the archipelago into an elite retreat for aristocrats and celebrities.

In the 20th century, it became the summer residence of Yugoslav president Tito, who hosted dozens of world leaders here—including monarchs, prime ministers, and revolutionaries. Many of their gifts remain in the quirky “Tito Museum”, a testament to Brijuni’s unusual mix of glamour and politics.

Today, nature is remarkably preserved, especially on the smaller islets, where human access is limited. The main island offers a fascinating mix: a safari park, archaeological sites, secluded coves, and historic hotels—all set against a lush Mediterranean backdrop.

Read our Guide to Brijuni

🛥️ Getting there:
Your adventure begins in Fažana, a charming coastal town near Pula, where you catch the official boat to the islands.

🎟️ Entrance fee:
Around €26 during the high season, which includes the boat ticket and guided tour. If you’re staying overnight in one of the park’s hotels or villas, you’ll have much more freedom to explore at your own pace.

📍 Pro tip: Brijuni is perfect for a slow travel experience—whether you’re into history, nature, or simply enjoying the peace of the Adriatic.

Učka Nature Park

Towering above the elegant Opatija Riviera, Učka is the defining mountain of the Istrian peninsula, looking out over the blue of the Kvarner Bay. While it may not be as dramatic or rugged as Biokovo or Velebit, Učka offers a gentler, greener mountain escape—perfect for a day trip, especially when the coast gets too hot or rainy.

The park is mostly forested, with cool beech and chestnut woods that give way to open grasslands on the summit plateau. On the Istrian side, near the famous Učka tunnel, you’ll find impressive geological formations—eroded rock towers that look like natural sculptures.

The summit of Vojak (1,401 m) is easily accessible by car, but for hikers, the real joy lies in climbing the many scenic trails that wind through the forest, past viewpoints and hidden glades. At the top, a stone tower offers panoramic views stretching from the Alps to the Adriatic islands on a clear day.

🎟️ Entrance:
There is no entrance fee to the park itself—only for guided tours or educational programs.

🌿 Pro tip: Bring good walking shoes and a picnic—Učka is ideal for slow, mindful exploration and escaping the summer crowds.

Risnjak National Park

Tucked into the highest reaches of Gorski kotar, Risnjak National Park is one of the wildest and most untamed regions of Croatia. Dominated by dense beech and fir forests, the park lies in an area that receives the highest annual precipitation in the country—showered with rain, blanketed in snow, and alive with mist.

It’s no wonder that Risnjak is home to Croatia’s elusive large carnivores:
the wolf, lynx (ris, after which the park is named), and brown bear, along with deer, chamois, owls, and many other forest species.

While still relatively unknown to foreign tourists, Risnjak is beloved by local hikers for its tranquil trails, fresh mountain air, and dramatic viewpoints.
The summit of Veliki Risnjak (1,528 m) is the highlight—offering spectacular panoramic views, sometimes stretching all the way to the Adriatic Sea and even the Alps on clear days.

🏞️ Top Experiences:

• Hike to Veliki Risnjak Summit: Best done as a two-day adventure, staying overnight in the mountain hut just below the summit (approx. €10).

• Leska Educational Trail: Near the park’s main entrance at Crni Lug, this easy, circular path features interpretive signs about the area’s geology, flora, fauna, and forest ecosystems—ideal for families and nature lovers.

🛏️ Accommodation:
Stay in the mountain hut, or opt for local guesthouses in nearby villages like Crni Lug or Delnice.

📍 Getting There:
Park headquarters are located in Crni Lug, about 13 km from Delnice, and easily accessible by road.

🌲 Pro tip: If you crave solitude, misty trails, and wild beauty, Risnjak delivers a true back-to-nature escape—no crowds, just you and the forest.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes is undoubtedly the most famous national park in Croatia—a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true icon of natural beauty.
Images of glistening waterfalls plunging into emerald-green lakes have become globally recognized symbols of Croatia’s wild heart.

The park features 16 main lakes, along with many smaller ones, that cascade into one another in a mesmerizing series of waterfalls and tufa terraces—formed over millennia by the natural deposition of travertine (tufa). (Want to know how the lakes were created?)

Surrounding the lakes is a lush beech and fir forest, with untouched areas such as Čorkova uvala, a rare remnant of primary forest in Europe.

📍 Getting There:
Located on the old Lika road, Plitvice is easily accessible from all directions: The easiest route is via Karlovac, but you can also exit the highway at Otočac, Gospić, or Sveti Rok.

🎟️ Entry Fees: €33 in high season; ~€20 after 16:00. Though not cheap, it’s worth every cent for the experience.

🛤️ What to Expect:
The park offers over 18 km of wooden boardwalks and forest trails, leading you deep into intimate coves, hidden falls, and peaceful lake shores.
A silent electric boat glides across the larger lakes, while an electric panoramic train connects the upper and lower sections—making it easier to explore.

🚶 Walking Circuits:
Several pre-set circuits range from 2 to 8 hours—whether you’re in for a short visit or a full-day immersion.
Don’t just rush for photos—take your time and feel the magic of the place.

🌿 Pro tip: Arrive early or after 4 PM to avoid crowds and catch the lakes in soft, golden light.

Sjeverni Velebit National Park

Northern Velebit is Croatia’s youngest national park, established in 1999, and it protects one of the wildest and most untouched regions in the country. Nestled in the upper part of the mighty Velebit mountain range, the park is a sanctuary for wildlife, including wolves, lynx, and bears, as well as home to jaw-dropping geological formations and pristine landscapes.

This is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that offer unforgettable views over the Adriatic Sea, as well as the dramatic mountain interior—a mosaic of forests, rocky karst, and alpine grasslands. If you’re lucky, you might even spot one of the big predators from a distance. Don’t worry—they pose no danger to visitors.

📍 Getting There:
The park is easily reached from the A1 highway—just exit at Otočac and follow the scenic road to Krasno, a charming village where the park headquarters are located.

🎟️ Entrance Fee:
Just 30 kn (~€4)—a symbolic price for such raw beauty.

⛰️ Where to Stay:

• Zavižan mountain hut, located near the botanical garden and one of the park’s most iconic viewpoints; Rossi Shelter, a remote and romantic mountain refuge for experienced hikers.

🌲 Pro tip: Northern Velebit is less crowded than other parks, making it ideal for those seeking solitude, silence, and raw wilderness.

Read more about Velebit

Nature Park Velebit

Velebit Nature Park spans almost the entire Velebit mountain range, acting as a vast protective belt around two national parks—Northern Velebit and Paklenica. It also includes the spectacular Zrmanja and Krupa rivers, which are famous for their turquoise canyons and wild scenery.

Due to the park’s protective role, independent paddling or canyoning is not allowed—you can only explore the rivers with licensed tour operators, ensuring safety and environmental conservation.

The park is less about controlled tourism and more about conservation and education. There are no entrance gates or fees, and most boundaries are invisible to visitors, allowing for a feeling of seamless nature. You may not even realize when you’re inside the park—until you find yourself surrounded by untouched forest, hidden springs, and ancient landscapes.

One of the most notable attractions managed by the park is the Cerovačke Caves (Cerovačke pećine) on southern Velebit—some of the most beautiful and important caves in Croatia, featuring rich speleological formations and archaeological finds.

📍 Park Headquarters:
Located in Gospić, the regional hub of Lika.

🌲 Pro tip: If you’re exploring inland Velebit, consider stopping at the Cerovačke caves or booking a guided kayak tour on the Zrmanja River—you’ll see the wild heart of Croatia, far from the tourist crowds.

Paklenica National Park

On the southern slopes of the Velebit mountain, just above the Adriatic Sea near Starigrad, lies Paklenica National Park—a dramatic collision of karst cliffs, lush forests, and rushing streams.

The park’s crown jewel is the Paklenica Canyon, carved by the only permanent stream on Velebit. The water crashes over boulders, tumbles down cascades and rapids, and winds its way through a shadowy gorge flanked by towering limestone walls. Among them rises the legendary Anića Kuk—a massive vertical rock face (712 meters high)—revered as a world-class climbing destination.

What makes Paklenica truly unique is the contrast between sea and mountain. From the warm beaches of Starigrad, trails climb through canyons and forests all the way to the highest peaks of Velebit, offering one of the most spectacular hiking experiences in Croatia.

🥾 Hiking Trails:
The park has a well-marked network of trails, with the main route following the canyon and branching off into dozens of paths that lead to caves, ridges, and panoramic viewpoints. The forests are alive with wildlife—lynx and bears roam these woods, though sightings are rare.

🛏️ Accommodation:

• Mountain hut near the upper canyon for those doing multi-day hikes; free but basic shelters higher up in the mountain; guesthouses and hotels in Starigrad for day-trippers

🎟️ Entrance Fee:

• €7 in high season

🌄 Pro tip: Hike early in the morning to beat the heat, and bring plenty of water—Paklenica can be demanding, but absolutely unforgettable.

Telašćica Nature Park

Telašćica offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas on the Adriatic—a dramatic clash of elements: towering cliffs, a tranquil turquoise bay, rugged karst terrain, and a vibrant underwater world teeming with life.

Located at the southern tip of Dugi Otok, and nestled right beside the Kornati archipelago, Telašćica feels like a natural extension of Kornati National Park—and geographically, it is. But in 1988, due to its exceptional natural diversity, Telašćica was designated a separate nature park, becoming the only coastal nature park in Croatia.

The defining feature is its vast, 69-kilometre-long bay, formed where Dugi Otok splits into two arms reaching toward the Kornati islands. Inside, you’ll find calm waters, hidden coves, and the dramatic cliffs of Stene, rising up to 161 meters above sea level, and plunging nearly the same depth into the sea.

🚤 Getting There:

• Arrive by ferry and car via Dugi Otok; bike in from Sali for an active option or join one of the many boat tours from Zadar, Biograd, or Murter—the most popular way to visit, especially for day-trippers

⚓ Perfect for:
Sailors and yachters, thanks to the sheltered bay, peaceful anchorages, and crystal-clear water.

🎟️ Entrance Fees:

• Vary based on arrival method, From ~€5 per person; boats pay from €15 to €50+, depending on vessel size

📍 Park Headquarters:
Located in the charming coastal village of Sali, just a short ride from the park entrance.

🌿 Pro tip: Combine your visit with a swim in Lake Mir, the park’s saltwater lake, located just steps from the cliffs—it’s warm, surreal, and perfect after a hike.

Kornati National Park

Scattered like yellow-grey pearls across the central Adriatic, the Kornati Islands form the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean, with around 150 islands, islets, and rocky outcrops packed into a surprisingly small area.

The islands are almost entirely uninhabited, rugged, and barren, shaped by wind, sea, and salt. This raw, lunar-like beauty is exactly what makes Kornati so captivating—a true seascape wilderness that’s remained unchanged for centuries.

🛥️ How to Visit:
Since there are no roads, boats are the only way to experience Kornati. And for those with access to one, this is a nautical dream.

• Private boaters are free to explore the park’s endless coves and straits at their own pace—just be sure to purchase a valid ticket.

• Organized boat tours are available from Murter, Zadar, Biograd, and Šibenik, offering day trips that often include swimming, lunch, and commentary.

🎟️ Entrance Fees:

• Private vessels from ~€20 for the smallest boats in low season up to ~€106 for boats over 11 meters in high season

• Day tours: Around 400 kn (~€53) per person, typically with lunch and a swim stop included

🌊 Pro tip:
For the most immersive experience, rent or charter a boat and sail at your own pace. But even a day tour will leave you with unforgettable views, especially when sailing past the dramatic cliffs of Mana and Rašip, or diving into the clear turquoise shallows between the islets.

Vransko jezero Nature Park

Just a few hundred meters inland from the Adriatic coast, between Murter and Pakoštane, lies Vransko Lake—Croatia’s largest natural lake, and one of its most important wetland habitats. This shallow, freshwater lake is a remnant of the once vast Vrana marshlands, much of which has since been reclaimed as fertile farmland.

Today, Vransko Lake is fully protected as a nature park, and its western reedbeds are designated as a strict ornithological reserve. Together with the Neretva Delta, it forms one of Croatia’s two most significant bird breeding and migration sites.
It’s a vital haven for species like the pygmy cormorant, purple heron, and many migratory birds.

📍 How to Visit:

• From the Pakoštane side, a wooden boardwalk trail winds through the reedbeds, with bird hides perfect for quiet observation.

• On the Murter side, near Prosika, you’ll find a visitor center with educational exhibits.

• For a stunning panoramic view, head up to Kamenjak promontory, where you can see both Vransko Lake and the Kornati archipelago stretching across the sea.

🎟️ Entrance Fees:
There’s no general entry fee for the park—only if you book guided tours or birdwatching experiences.

🦅 Pro tip: Visit early in the morning or near sunset for the best birdwatching, and bring binoculars!

Read more about Vrana Lake

Krka National Park

Unlike the remote Kornati, Krka National Park is nestled in the hinterland of Šibenik and is easily accessible from multiple directions. While it covers a wide and diverse area, the park’s star attraction is undoubtedly Skradinski Buk—the longest uninterrupted travertine cascade in Europe.

This 800-meter-long waterfall features a series of glittering falls and emerald pools, connected by wooden walkways that let you get up close to the rushing water. Around it, you’ll find restored watermills, traditional stone buildings, and even a historic hydroelectric plant, said to be one of the first in Europe.

But Skradinski Buk is only the beginning. The park encompasses a vast network of: waterfalls (like Roški Slap, Manojlovački Buk, and Bilušića Buk), canyons and flowing lakes, The Čikola River with its own dramatic gorge, ancient forts and Orthodox monasteries and finally, the river estuary where freshwater meets the Adriatic Sea

🚶 Getting There & Around:

• Lozovac entrance: Main access point with a large parking area

• Skradin entrance: Offers a scenic walk or bike ride along the canyon to Skradinski Buk

• Boat tours and marked trails help connect other waterfalls and historic sites within the park

🎟️ Entrance Fee: Around €13 in high seasoDiscounts often apply for students, kids, and off-season visits

🌿 Pro tip:
Roški Slap is quieter and just as magical—perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Visit early or late in the day to enjoy the waterfalls in peace.

Read more about Krka

Lastovo Islands Nature Park

Lastovo is one of the most remote and least developed islands in Croatia, and that isolation has become its greatest strength—preserving its nature in near-pristine condition. Officially declared a nature park in 2006, it is also one of Croatia’s youngest protected areas.

But Lastovo is more than just one island. The archipelago includes the main island of Lastovo and nearly 50 smaller islets, scattered like stepping stones across the Adriatic. This elongated protected area stretches from the westernmost to the easternmost points, encompassing vast sea zones teeming with life.

The smaller islands are important breeding grounds for seabirds, especially gulls and shearwaters, and many host endemic plant species, clinging to life in their harsh, dry environments. Beneath the waves, especially near Sušac and Bijelac, divers will find some of the best underwater spots in Croatia—home to colorful Gorgonian corals, schools of fish, and crystal visibility.

The main island of Lastovo is green, hilly, and rugged, with hidden coves, deep karst valleys, and quiet coastal villages. The island’s heart is Lastovo Town, perched on a hillside, and Skrivena Luka (“Hidden Bay”) is a breathtaking natural harbor—perfect for sailors, kayakers, and anyone seeking solitude by the sea.

📍 Getting There: ferry from Split (via Korčula) or by private boat. Organized boat tours (around 200 kn, usually 4 hours long)

🛥️ Fees:

• Charged only for boats

• From 100 kn for the smallest vessels to several thousand for larger yachts

🚶 Don’t Miss:

• The “From Present to the Past” educational trail, showcasing the best of Lastovo’s culture and landscape: from traditional architecture and vineyards, to olive groves and shaded forests

📍 Park Headquarters:
Located in the small harbor town of Ubli, where ferries dock.

🌿 Pro tip: Bring snorkel or diving gear if you can—Lastovo’s undersea world is just as enchanting as its rugged coastlines.

Read more about Lastovo

Mljet National Park

Welcome to Mljet, Croatia’s southernmost national park and one of its most enchanting islands—often called the “Green Island” for its lush pine forests, peaceful coves, and timeless charm. The park, established in 1960, protects the northeastern part of the island, where nature and tranquility reign.

The park’s signature attractions are its two famous saltwater lakes—Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero. Though called lakes, they are in fact connected to the sea, forming a unique ecosystem with an almost tropical feel, especially in summer.

Local legends say that mussels grow on pine branches that dip into the calm, emerald waters. And yes—you can swim here, even in early spring or late autumn, as the water stays pleasantly warm.

🚶 Why Visit:

• To escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature

• To walk or cycle around the lakeside trails

• To kayak or swim in the peaceful salt lakes

• To discover ancient ruins, from Roman villas to medieval monasteries on the islet of St. Mary

🏘️ Inhabited Harmony:
Scattered within the park are a few historic villages, like Goveđari, where the park headquarters are based. Some date back to Greek and Roman times, blending cultural heritage with untouched nature.

🎟️ Entrance Fee: ~€17 in high season; ~€9 in low season

🛏️ Where to Stay:

• Hotel Odisej in Pomena, right by the park entrance or choose from private accommodations throughout the island for a more local experience

🛥️ Getting There:
Mljet is accessible by ferries and catamarans from Dubrovnik, Pelješac, and in summer also from Split, Korčula, Lastovo, and even Bari, Italy

🌿 Pro tip: Bring your swimsuit, snorkel, and a bicycle or walking shoes—Mljet is about slow living and silent exploration.

Read more about Mljet

Biokovo Nature Park

Rising like a stone fortress above the Makarska Riviera, Biokovo Mountain is one of the most imposing natural landmarks in Croatia. With its steep limestone cliffs that plunge toward the coast and a rugged highland ridge, Biokovo dominates the landscape with both grandeur and mystery.

The mountain’s highest peak, Sveti Jure (1,762 m), is the third-highest in Croatia, and can be reached via a narrow but scenic mountain road—the highest paved road in the country. Along the way, panoramic pullouts reveal unforgettable views of the Adriatic Sea, the Dalmatian islands, and, on clear days, even Italy’s distant mountains across the water.

Despite its rocky, craggy appearance, Biokovo harbors extraordinary biodiversity. Its flora includes endemic alpine plants, while its shadowy caves are home to rare underground species. If you’re lucky, this is one of the few places in Croatia where you might spot the elusive chamois, gracefully navigating the steep terrain.

🥾 What to Do:

• Hike the network of marked trails, from easy walks to challenging ridge treks

• Drive or cycle up to Sveti Jure

• Visit the Biokovo Skywalk, a glass platform extending over the cliffs for a heart-racing view

• Explore Botanical Garden Kotišina, nestled at the mountain’s base

📍 Park Headquarters:
Located in Podgora, just off the main coastal road

🎟️ Entrance Fee: €7 per person, discounts available for multi-day visits or combined activities

🌄 Pro tip: Start your ascent early in the morning to avoid traffic on the narrow mountain road and enjoy the cooler mountain air before the heat builds up.

Medvednica Nature Park

Medvednica is Zagreb’s very own green mountain escape—a forested “island” rising from the flatlands of northern Croatia, just above the capital. Beloved by locals, it’s a traditional weekend retreat for hiking, biking, and unwinding in nature, all within 30 minutes of the city center.

Covered in dense forest and crisscrossed with well-marked hiking trails and rustic mountain huts, Medvednica offers a refreshing break from urban life. Whether you’re looking for a quiet forest walk or a challenging summit hike, there’s a trail for every level.

🚴 For cyclists, the park features: Eight circular trails, one long-distance transversal trail, all routes are signposted and scenic, ranging from easy loops to adrenaline-filled climbs

🏰 What to See:

• On the southern slopes, atop Mali Plazur, sits Medvedgrad, a 13th-century medieval fortress that has watched over Zagreb for 800 years. Recently restored, it offers sweeping views of the city, exhibitions, and a glimpse into Croatia’s medieval past.

• Veternica Cave, the sixth-longest cave in Croatia, features more than 7 km of underground channels, and continues to grow with new discoveries by local speleologists. Guided tours take you deep into its fascinating geological layers.

🎟️ Entrance Fees: park entrance is free; Veternica Cave:~€5; Medvedgrad Castle: ~€2; additional charges apply for guided tours and educational programs

🌲 Pro tip: Visit in autumn when the forest blazes with golden color, or in winter when Medvednica becomes a snowy wonderland—often the only place in Zagreb with snow!

Samoborsko Gorje & Žumberak

Just a short drive from Zagreb, the Samoborsko gorje and Žumberak hills offer a peaceful escape into nature, rich with charm, tradition, and gentle adventure. These rolling, forested landscapes are part of the Žumberak–Samoborsko gorje Nature Park, a protected area known for its scenic beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.

🥾 Samoborsko Gorje

This region has long been a favorite hiking destination for Zagreb locals. Trails wind through a mosaic of meadows, forests, and sleepy villages, with easy to moderate hikes ideal for families or casual hikers. A network of well-marked trails and cozy mountain huts makes exploring the area easy and enjoyable. Spring (especially March) brings a burst of wildflowers, making sunny days feel magical.

🌲 Žumberak

Slightly more rugged and remote, Žumberak is denser with forest and less populated, offering a more secluded hiking experience.

While its landscapes are quieter, it hides beautiful waterfalls, hidden glens, and old wooden churches. Great for those who love off-the-beaten-path nature walks and less-traveled mountain trails.

🏘️ Samobor Town

No visit is complete without stopping in the charming baroque town of Samobor, located at the foot of the hills.

• Stroll through the quaint streets, and don’t miss the central square, where you should absolutely try the town’s most iconic treat—Samoborska kremšnita (cream cake), warm, airy, and irresistible.

🎟️ Entrance Fees:
There is no fee to visit or hike in the nature park. Trails are free and open year-round.

🌿 Pro tip: Go on a sunny spring day, and bring a picnic or plan a stop at a local mountain hut for homemade food and fresh mountain air.

Lonjsko Polje Nature Park

Just a short distance from Zagreb, along the meandering floodplains of the Sava River, lies Lonjsko Polje—one of Europe’s largest and most ecologically valuable wetlands. Covering over 50,000 hectares of forests, marshes, meadows, and rivers, the park is a living mosaic where nature and traditional life coexist in perfect harmony.

🌿 Biodiversity & Wildlife
This vast wetland is a haven for wildlife. The diverse habitats support an impressive range of species: black storks, spoonbills, white storks, deer, wild boar, and semi-wild domestic animal, countless amphibians, reptiles, and insects

One of the park’s most remarkable features is its seasonally flooded pastures, where thousands of cows, horses, and pigs graze freely throughout the year. When the floods arrive, the animals naturally retreat back to the villages—a rare, living example of traditional agriculture adapted to a floodplain ecosystem.

🏡 Cultural Heritage
Lonjsko Polje is also known for its picturesque wooden villages, especially Čigoć, declared Europe’s first stork village, where white storks nest on nearly every rooftop. These villages preserve centuries-old customs and architecture that reflect the deep connection between people and the land.

📍 Visitor Info

• Main park headquarters: Krapje

• Additional visitor centers: Čigoć and Repušnica

• Best access: from the Zagreb–Beograd highway, via Popovača or Jasenovac exits

🎟️ Entrance Fees:

• Basic ticket: Only €1.30, additional guided programs, birdwatching tours, and cycling routes are available for a small fee

🦢 Pro tip:
Visit in spring or early summer for birdwatching, blooming meadows, and authentic rural life in motion. Bring binoculars—and don’t forget your camera.

Read more about Lonjsko polje

Kopački rit Nature Park

Tucked between the Danube and Drava rivers, in one of Europe’s most important wetlands, lies Kopački Rit—a natural jewel of eastern Croatia, teeming with wildlife and raw beauty. This vast floodplain, covering nearly 20,000 hectares, is a sanctuary where rivers breathe life into forests, reeds, and marshes.

🦅 A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Kopački Rit is one of Europe’s top birdwatching sites.
Each year, thousands of migratory birds stop here on their long journeys between north and south, while many others nest year-round. Among them is the majestic white-tailed eagle, soaring above the marshes. The park also shelters herons, cormorants, spoonbills, and black storks.

🌿 Home to Wild Residents
This water world is also a haven for: Red deer and wild boar, often seen grazing near the waterline, otters and beavers, thriving in the wetland maze, a rich variety of amphibians, reptiles, and aquatic species

🌊 Explore the Park:
Start your visit in Kopačevo, where the modern visitor center offers exhibitions and info to prepare you for your adventure. Then, follow wooden boardwalks through the marsh, spotting birds and animals along the way.
You can also explore the park on foot, by bicycle, by boat tour, gliding silently through lily-covered channels and forested backwaters

🏡 Where to Stay:
Most accommodations are located in Kopačevo village, where you’ll find charming family-run guesthouses and rural hospitality.

📍 Getting There: Just 20 km from Osijek, the largest city in Slavonia; easy to reach by car, with signage from the main roads.

🎟️ Entrance Fee: asic ticket: ~€1.30, additional programs and tours available for small extra fees

🌾 Pro tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and wildlife activity. Bring binoculars, a quiet attitude, and an open heart—Kopački Rit is pure, peaceful wilderness.

Read more about Kopački rit

Papuk Nature Park

Rising like a forested island from the fertile plains of Slavonia, Papuk Nature Park is the go-to hiking destination of eastern Croatia. While it may not boast sharp rocky peaks or sweeping sea views, Papuk’s charm lies in its peaceful forests, hidden waterfalls, and fascinating geological heritage.

🌲 What to See & Do:

🏞️ Jankovac Forest Park

The heart of Papuk is Jankovac, a serene forest valley cradling two clear lakes and a cozy mountain lodge, known for its warm hospitality and affordable meals.
Just a 10-minute walk from the hut brings you to Skakavac Waterfall, a rare tufa waterfall in continental Croatia—a lush and shady paradise, especially in spring and autumn.

🔥 Rupnica Geological Site

Located on the western slopes of Papuk, Rupnica is a unique volcanic formation, where column-like basalt pillars (nicknamed magma tendons) stretch across several hundred meters. What makes it truly special is that this ancient volcanic rock cuts through 300-million-year-old metamorphic formations, offering a stunning look back into deep geological time.

📍 How to Get There: The park is easily reached from the Našice–Slatina road, with well-maintained white gravel roads leading to Jankovac. Ideal for weekend getaways, school trips, or quiet forest hikes

🛖 Visitor Info: Jankovac mountain hut serves traditional food at great prices; An information center at Jankovac explains the park’s natural and cultural highlights

🎟️ Entrance Fee: €1.30 per person

🌿 Pro tip: Pack hiking shoes, a camera, and curiosity—Papuk is one of Croatia’s best-kept inland secrets, perfect for forest bathing, geology lovers, and peaceful escapes.

Goran Šafarek, biologist, author of several books and films about Croatia. Don’t forget to follow us on our Instagram, Twitter and Facebook