Ul. Pavla Radića 3A, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park, a natural wonder and an UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Croatia. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes, Plitvice Lakes is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
We reached around ten in the morning and after collecting the tickets from our tour guide, we waited for the time of entry. By then we explored outside and were deciding which route to explore. Due to time restriction our guide suggested Route B. Me and my friend decided to explore Route C and try to finish it in time.
As you embark on this unforgettable journey, let’s explore the different routes available within the park, each offering a unique and awe-inspiring experience.
A breakdown on the routes
1. Route A: The Upper Lakes Circuit
As you set foot in Plitvice Lakes National Park, Route A beckons you to start your adventure with the Upper Lakes Circuit. This circular route guides you through a series of wooden pathways and trails, leading you to some of the most captivating sights in the park. Prepare to be captivated by the impressive Veliki Slap waterfall, which stands tall at 78 meters, and marvel at the tranquil beauty of the Gradinsko Lake and Kozjak Lake.
2. Route B: The Lower Lakes Circuit
Route B, the Lower Lakes Circuit, presents a different perspective of Plitvice Lakes’ natural splendor. This circular route takes you closer to the lower lakes, where the emerald waters dance and shimmer in the sunlight. Prepare to be enchanted by the enchanting Sastavci waterfall, where the Korana River and the Plitvica River meet, creating a truly magical sight. As you wander through the wooden footbridges, keep an eye out for diverse flora and fauna, making the park a haven for biodiversity.
3. Route C: The Kozjak Boat Ride
For a relaxing and unique experience, opt for Route C, the Kozjak Boat Ride. This route complements either Route A or B and offers a leisurely boat ride across the serene Kozjak Lake. Surrounded by lush greenery and mirror-like waters, you can enjoy a moment of tranquility while relishing the scenic beauty.
4. Route K: The K1-K2-K3 Hiking Trail
If you’re an avid hiker and crave a more challenging adventure, the K1-K2-K3 Hiking Trail (Route K) awaits. This trail combines the Lower and Upper Lakes Circuits, offering a more extended hike that allows you to experience the park’s full glory. From cascading waterfalls to dramatic cliffs, every step of this trail rewards you with awe-inspiring vistas and an unparalleled connection with nature.
I would have loved to take route K if I had an extra hour up my sleeve.
Our guide had learnt from previous experience that Entrance 1 gives best views of the biggest waterfall in Plitvice otherwise called Veliki Slap. You just got to stand and admire the scenery in front of you. and a few meters of walking you get to see the lower lakes cascaded one after the other
Beware of the tourists taking pictures for a long time, please don't expect people to move for you 😁.
As you hike down to the lakes you will notice the pathways getting narrower and crowded. Once you have reached down near the lower lakes, you could see mini waterfalls and wooden pathways with crystal clear emerald water on both sides.
Keep an umbrella or a rain cover with you as a precaution. The weather could change within minutes and I learnt the hard way
As I reached the first station (St1), the weather had changed drastically and thunderstorms kicked in. We boarded the boat to Point 3 (Pt 3) and was stranded in Pt 3 because of heavy downpour, completely drenched as there was no place to get cover. We waited for rain to stop in the waiting shed and after 45 long minutes rain gods decided to take some break😜.
Because of the rain we were in a dilemma to cut short our hike and return. As soon as we noticed the rain slowing down, we turned around and started walking on the original course and my oh my, it was the best decision taken.
The way forward from Pt3 to St3 was one hell of a walk with stunning waterfalls, crystal clear water and a short hike up the hill. The sunlight after the rain added extra glow to the water and just made the park look even better.
We walked through the lush green pathways and covered the upper and lower lakes and reached the last station before boarding the bus back to Station 2 for a small walk to the entrance.
At station 3, as you wait for the bus you can grab some food or drinks from the only shop that serves some good hot chocolate and traditional sandwiches. As you walk around, you get to learn about the underground caves and the first antifascist movement (ZAVNOH) held at Plitvice grounds.
I loved this quote from Einstein that was on display
Look deep into nature , and then you will understand everything better.
We boarded the bus and reached Station 1 from where we had to walk for another short distance to reach the starting point. Along the pathway you get to see the entrance for the underground caves. A sign hangs out in front of the gate
Enter at your own disposal. Risk of insects and reptiles🦎🪳
And a few more steps you come across the most famous viewpoint and one of the most viewed pictures when you search online for Plitvice Lakes. The view of the wooden pathway from the top and waterfalls at the distance.
Tip: If you are travelling by yourself or with friends, try to arrive at the park as early as possible to avoid the crowd and enjoy the lakes peacefully.
After spending hours amidst the nature, it was time to explore the capital of Croatia- Zagreb.
Zagreb: History, Culture and Charm
As wet got off the bus, we set off to Zagreb’s central square – Ban Jelačić Square. This square leads to all the other attractions. We had to skip the cathedral as it was closed for renovations.
We set off to explore on foot and our first stop was Market Dolac- a large open ground with stands for flowers, fruits and vegetables and other delicacies. On the day we arrived, the market was converted to a small cultural event featuring stalls from nearby pubs, restaurants and eateries.
Once you exit the market square, you enter Zagreb’s most famous shopping and dining street-Pavla Radića. We will come later to that. End of the street you come across one of world’s shortest public-transport funiculars connecting the lower town with the upper town. You can take this short ride or walk around to reach the top.
We took a small diversion and arrived at the entrance of Grič Tunnel, built during World War II by the Ustaše government to serve both as a bomb shelter. The cave leads to the other side of the city and you can reach the upper city in no time.
Next attraction was something special- St. Marks Church. An iconic symbol of Zagreb. Its stunning multicolored tiled roof, adorned with the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, and Slavonia, is a sight to behold
From here we walked down back to main square but through the famous Pavla Radića street lined with cafe’s, restaurants, bakeries.
Our first stop on the street was at Ferdinand Knedle, first knödel brand in the World, specializing in the production and preparation of knödels in a traditional way. We were curious about the different options found in a knödel. I chose their Imperial knödel filled with finest Belgian dark, milk and white chocolate and covered with French biscuit.
We asked the shopkeeper for suggestion regarding finest Burek in Croatia and mentioned the name Feniks which was a few blocks away. I was expecting them to be similar to what we get in Germany but was completely surprised to get a pizza slice shaped Burek filled with chicken and spinach. Never miss trying out a Burek and don’t forget Feniks.
Did you know that the cravat or what we call the necktie, a classic fashion accessory, originated in Croatia? Pay a visit to the cravat monument, located near Ban Jelačić Square, to learn about this sartorial legacy and snap a photo with the iconic necktie.
No visit to Zagreb is complete without sipping on a cup of aromatic coffee, and Melt Zagreb is the place to go. This hip and trendy coffee shop prides itself on serving some of the city’s best brews. Sit back, relax, and watch the world go by as you savor the perfect cup of coffee made with passion and precision. The kind barista suggested me try Affogato, an Italian coffee based dessert. Affogato basically means drowned in coffee. This was perfect to end the night.
Conclusion
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders that will leave you awe-struck and inspired and make you wonder how it’s kept pristine.
Zagreb is a city that effortlessly blends its rich cultural heritage with contemporary charm. As you explore the city’s attractions, indulge in delightful culinary experiences, and uncover hidden gems, you’ll leave with cherished memories of a city that embraces its past while embracing the future.
So, If you get a chance keep an eye on Studifahrten page and travel with the guide who knows a lot about the place.
Useful links
STUDIFAHRTEN | Travel Agency | Germany
Official website of the Croatian National Tourist Board | Croatia.hr
Plitvice Lakes National Park (np-plitvicka-jezera.hr)
