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Home , Biokovo, Korana, Kornati, Krka National Park, Lavsa, Levrnaka

GUIDE TO NATIONAL PARKS AND PARKS IN THE REPUBLIC OF Parks of Croatia

CROATIA TICKETS > 1 We cherish the riches that nature has been creating for centuries

Mihael Zmajlović Minister of Environmental and Nature Protection

If we measured the extent to which nature is preserved, Croatia would be among the richest countries of Europe. We have every right to say proudly that Croatia is the national park of Europe. A third of our territory belongs to the world’s largest network of protected areas, the Natura 2000 network. Under the title of Parks of Croatia there are 8 National Parks and 11 Nature Parks.

Each one is unique, regardless of their location in Croatia – on the sea, in the coastal area, continental or mountainous parts. Everyone will surely find the incredible diversity of fascinating. Apart from the natural beauty, the parks offer various other facilities and services to their visitors – walks, visitors’ centres, bike and trails, boat rides or for example mountain climbing, canoeing and deep-sea diving for the more adventurous ones.

That is why they are all worth the visit which is confirmed by about 3 million visitors who are attracted to them every year.

This brochure presents the natural riches of Parks, their particular features and attractions managed by the employees of public institutions governing the Parks whose preservation is the objective of activities implemented by the Ministry of Environmental and Nature Protection. You can plan your visit on the joint web site www.parkovihrvatske.hr , or even apply to do some voluntary work in one of the Parks. www.parkovihrvatske.hr

2 3 Symbols: Contents:

Introduction...... 2 National Parks Plitvička jezera ...... 6 HIKING HORSE RIDING ...... 8 ...... 10 ...... 12 MOUNTAIN TRAIL SKIIKNG ...... 14 CLIMBING ...... 16 ...... 18 Sjeverni ...... 20 ROCK CLIMBING SPELEOLOGY Nature Parks Kopački rit ...... 22 ...... 23 CYCLING PARAGLIDING ...... 24 Velebit ...... 25 Telašćica ...... 26 ...... 27 FISHING SWIMMING ...... 28 Vransko jezero ...... 29 Učka...... 30 SAILING SCUBA DIVING Žumberak - Samoborsko gorje ...... 31 Lastovsko otočje...... 32 About www.parkovihrvatske.hr ...... 33 Volunteer program...... 34 KAYAKING SNORKELING

Publisher: Ministry of Environmental and Nature Protection and Slobodna Dalmacija Authors: Igor Kreitmeyer, Marija Grgurević BOAT TRIPS BIRDWATCHING Contributors: Marija Jurčević, Ivana Horvat Pisnjak, Alma Radoš Photography: Croatian Tourist Board, Agency Cropix, Ministry, S.Bionda, FORTRESS RESTAURANT M.Vrdoljak, I.Pervan, F.Bosnar, B.Krstinić, N.Smoje, B.Dmitrović, Novena ltd. Print: Slobodna Dalmacija print ltd.

The opinion of the authors in this publication does not necessarily reflect the official WILD ANIMALS ACCOMMODATION opinion of the United Nations, UNDP or their member states.

4 5 www.np-plitvicka-jezera.hr

Place of magical

MAIN FEATURES beauty Proclaimed as National Park: 1949 Inscribed into the UNESCO world heritage list: 1979 Area: 296,8 km2 16 lakes etween Mala Kapela and Lička Plješivica, next to the Biggest lakes: Kozjak and Prošće road connecting to , there are 16 Main attraction: Veliki slap (Great Waterfall), 78 m cascade-lined lakes with magnificent waterfalls, sur- the biggest waterfall in Croatia B rounded by forests with abundant fauna. Plitvička jezera Highest peak: Seliški vrh, 1279 m (Plitvice Lakes) was the first Croatian national park whose Cave open for tourists: Šupljara Number of visitors: over a million 80% foreign visitors, value was also recognized by UNESCO having placed it on mostly German, Dutch and Italian the world natural heritage list.

POINT OF INTEREST The two biggest and deepest lakes, Kozjak and Prošće, The name of the Park comes from the word „plitvice“, Did you know? „pličine“ which means something shallow, a shallow together with ten other smaller lakes on dolomite sub- basin created in the sedimentation process of According to a legend, strate make up a group of Upper Lakes, whereas the Low- limestone. there was a queen, Black er Lakes are situated downstream from Kozjak in the 70 EVENT OF THE YEAR Queen, who came down – 80 meter deep limestone canyon. Just before entering A swimming marathon in June the mountain and after Prošćansko Lake, the two rivers, Crna and Bijela, merge a very dry season sent a into the joint Matica, whereas the River Rječica enters FLORA AND FAUNA Kozjak Lake and the beautiful River is its effluent. Plants: Siberian rayflower, Dalmatian squill,round- strong wind and thunder Next to it, at the most impressive part of the park, at Sas- leaved sundew, 58 types of orchids – lady’s slipper storm to the local tavci, together with the waterfalls of the last lake falls the Animals: , , , Ural owl, otter people to finally end 78 meter high waterfall of the Plitvice Rivulet. The Riv- the drought. After the er Korana, on its way to Golubinjača, the deepest cave in rain, 16 lakes remained. the national park, and further on towards also The people were very forms some amazing waterfalls. grateful and the queen said: „From now on, Ticket price: between 55 HRK and 180 Even though the altitude of Plitvice Lakes is not very people will be coming HRK depending on the time of the year high, the rich forests surrounding it give the impression from all over the world of mountainous landscape; also the best preserved area You can find online tickets at to see these beautiful of original beech- forest spreads into the virgin forest CROATIA TICKETS > www.croatia-tickets.com Plitvice Lakes“. of Čorkova Cove.

6 7 www.np-paklenica.hr

Heaven for climbers and adventurers MAIN FEATURES Proclaimed as National Park: 1949 as it the beauty of this place that the locals from Area: 95 km2 the village at the bottom of Paklenica talked Highest peak: Vaganski vrh, 1757 m about when they passed on for generations the Main attractions: impressive canyons of Velika and W legend about the fairies that charmed and lured all those Mala Paklenica carved into the mountain from the sea level to the highest peaks of Velebit who would look at them? Biggest Croatian rock for climbers: Anića kuk, 712 m Cave open for tourists: Manita peć Carved vertically into the south banks of Velebit, the Number of visitors: 120.000 canyons of Velika and Mala Paklenica are filled with rock 85% foreign visitors, mostly German, Austrian, Czech, sculptures amid forests and valleys rich with mountain- Slovenian, Italian ous flora and fauna. Endemic bellflowers, dense black forests, orchids and lilies, then various species POINT OF INTEREST of butterflies and birds attract nature lovers, whereas The name of the Park comes from the word „paklina“ steep rocks of Velika Paklenica are a favourite destination which means black pine resin Do not miss for hikers and mountain climbers. EVENT OF THE YEAR Through the wild gorge International gathering of climbers in May of Velika Paklenica where A lavish underground world is best seen in Manita peć, a long time ago highlander 175 meter long cave, divided in two chambers of numer- FLORA I FAUNA women used to carry ous stalagmite, stalactite and calcite columns. The cave Plants: sandwort and lady’s slipper salt, figs and shallot entrance is at the altitude of 570 meters, and the ascent Animals: , brown bear, wolf, lynx, („ljutika“) on their way from the parking area in Velika Paklenica to the cave takes back from the coast, about an hour and a half. and also carried wheat Visitors who wish to avoid dangerous adventures are at- from the fertile land of tracted by impressive scenes of Velebit overlooking the to the coast, there holiday resorts of Starigrad-Paklenica, Selina and . Ticket price: between 40 HRK and 50 HRK is a pleasant hiking trail Special offer: 3-day and 5-day tickets. If you wish to see for yourself all the beauties of the Na- today with many road tional Park, choose one of the 150 kilometer long moun- You can find online tickets at signs in both Croatian tain trails and relax in the best possible way in the beauty CROATIA TICKETS > www.croatia-tickets.com and English. of Velebit, in the shades of giant beech and pine forests.

8 9 www.np-risnjak.hr

In the land of the lynx and MAIN FEATURES Proclaimed as National Park: 1953 Expanded to the source and Snježnik massif in 1997 Area: 63,5 km2 Entry points: from Crni Lug, from the pass of Gornje edelweiss and from Kupska dolina Highest peak: Veliki Risnjak, 1528 m Main attractions: the source of the River Kupa and the ragmented and steep rocks, abyss, cracks in limestone Risnjak massif with a guest house and sink-holes up to 200 meters deep, coves and karst Particular feature of the Park: edelweiss and hairy Fvalleys are the main features of alpenrose located in , about 15 kilometers to the north- Number of visitors: 20.000 east from . On a relatively small area of the Dinarides Domestic visitors 70% there are fourteen main types of mountain forests together with about thirty plant communities. Apart from Risnjak POINT OF INTEREST What to visit? Mountain, the National Park also includes the Snježnik The name of the Park comes from the Croatian word for the lynx – „ris“ It is best to follow the mountain massif, as well as the source of the Kupa River. Leska educational trail It is possible to reach the source, the only unique blue and EVENT OF THE YEAR and its 23 viewpoints to green carst , following a well marked attractive wind- A local celebration in August, the so-called „Furman encounter the natural ing trail from the village of Razloge or from the northern Day“ and cultural heritage side of Kupska dolina, following a more pleasant but longer of the National Park road from the village of Hrvatsko. FLORA AND FAUNA Risnjak. It is a pleasant The National Park Risnjak is abundant with diverse flora Plants: edelweiss, hairy alpenrose, Alpine buttewort, walk even for those who and fauna so it’s a unique place in Europe where you can great yellow gentian, lilies, orchids, arnica, silvery are not in their best still see a bear, a wolf or a lynx in their natural habitat. The yarrow, false aster shape. The source of the lynx, predator of big and small game especially deer, is a Animals: lynx, brown bear, wolf, grayling, butterflies River Kupa and the first five kilometers of its loner and hunts primarily in the twilight or at night. The flow are definitely worth mountain massif of Risnjak was named after the lynx („ris“) visiting together with since it wanders around those forests. Nature lovers will en- the massif of Risnjak joy the perfect stone sculptures, rich forests and meadows and Snježnik, and the where you can still see edelweiss, a rare protected flower, Ticket price: 45 HRK beautiful mountain and you will surely remember the unique view from Veliki Special offer: family ticket grasslands. Risnjak or Snježnik on Kvarner bay for a long time.

10 11 www.np-mljet.hr Gorgeous island of the nymph Calypso

ccording to a legend, the island of Mljet is Homer’s MAIN FEATURES Ogygia, the beautiful island of the nymph Calypso Proclaimed as National Park: 1960 Awhere Odysseus stayed for seven years while wan- Area: 53,7 km2 dering the Mediterranean. The specifically indented coast Island surface: 100,4 km2 of the island with two salt „lakes“, the forests of Aleppo Great Lake: 46 m deep pine, holm oak and maquis, as well as the rich cultural Small Lake: 29 m deep heritage are the reason why many people consider Mljet How to reach the island: by regular ferry lines or by own boat as the most beautiful island on the Adriatic. The landscape 24 sea miles away from beauty is one of the best recognized values of the island. Number of visitors: 100.000 Its north-western part is a national park known for the Mljet lakes which are actually flooded valleys created after POINT OF INTEREST the last ice age when the sea penetrated through a narrow The name of the Park comes from the latin words opening into carst depressions. The sea enters through Melita, Meleda Did you know? the 30 m long and 13.5 m wide canal on the location of Veliki Most, thus creating Great Lake and Small Lake. EVENT OF THE YEAR In the coastal part of The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary the sea around Mljet The island of Mljet has a rich cultural and historical her- and in Mljet Lakes there itage which can be traced without any interruptions from FLORA AND FAUNA the times of Illyrian tribes, the Roman Empire, the Re- Plants: Aleppo pine, holm oak, orchids, Dubrovnik are about 150 species knapweed, sea lavender of bivalves, of which public of Dubrovnik until today. The settlement of stone Animals: Audouin’s gull, European shag, European more than 40 species houses, Goveđari, as the home of the first settlers in the honey buzzard, common kestrel, Eurasian eagle-owl live in Small Lake. The 18th century is particularly impressive. The National Park Mljet is abundant with numerous gor- populations of shell St geous coves such as Zaobraslo prijeslo, shallow Blace, Jacques in Great Lake are beaches of Grabove and Polača where numerous islets among the best known in protect the entrance into one of the safest harbors on the the Adriatic and the age Adriatic. The sights worth visiting on the rest of the is- Ticket price: 100 HRK, including the boat of some specimen can land include the Odysseus Cave next to Babino Polje and ticket to the Islet of St. Mary. reach up to 17 years. old settlements such a Korita and Prožure.

12 13 www.np-kornati.hr Created out of tears, stars and breath

MAIN FEATURES Proclaimed as National Park: 1980 he Irish writer George Bernard Shaw described this Area: 217 km2 magical archipelago in the Middle Adriatic with the Largest island: 32,5 km2 following words: Large islands: Piškera, , , T „On the last day of Creation God desired to crown His work, Biggest settlement: Vrulje on Kornat island and thus created the Kornati islands out of tears, stars and Highest peak: Metlina, 237 m 7 sea miles from island and 15 sea miles from breath.“ This is the most indented group of islands in the Šibenk and European Mediterranean of the most exceptional landscape How to reach the Park: by boat hired in a tourist agency value which was given the status of national park in 1980. or by own boat More than three quarters of the Park’s surface belong to the Entry points: Opat and Vela Proversa sea, whereas the land part consists of 89 islands, islets and Number of visitors: approx. 120.000 reefs in the total surface of 50 km2. Foreign boaters: approx. 80% The two groups of islands in the Park, Kornatski and Pučin- POINT OF INTEREST ski set of islands, are equally beautiful and interesting, however the islands of Pučinski set with their „crowns“ The name of the Park comes from the Latin word „corona“ which means a crown (crags or cliffs) are the most valuable ones. The highest peak in the National Park is Metlina located on the longest island EVENT OF THE YEAR of Kornat which also holds the 34 meter long cave in the A pilgrimage to the church of Our Lady of o’Tarca in July What to visit? Stiniva Cove. Each of the nine diving Behind the scenes of the occasional settlements on the FLORA AND FAUNA zones in the National islands there are remains of Illyrian settlements, Roman Plants: Adriatic iris, bunch-flowered daffodil Park Kornati brings saltworks and the Roman fishpond, the Tureta fortress (6th Animals: European shag, noble pen shell, giant tun, century), medieval saltwork on the Lavsa island and a small loggerhead sea turtle, bottlenose dolphin, pallid swift its own particular church from the 16th century on the Piškera island. excitement and There are no water springs nor any water flows on the Kor- impression. However, nati islands; fresh water stays only temporarily in the Ta- diving in Kornati is only rac and Knežak ponds or in carst basins. That is why many allowed in organized and water tanks have been built on the islands. Nevertheless, Ticket price: 150 or 300 HRK for the authorized diving groups. cruising by the „crowns“ that vertically rise from the sea, smallest vessel depending on the place However, swimming in stone houses and the crystal clear sea are undoubtedly bre- where ticket was purchased the lush sea is unlimited. athtaking and worth the visit.

14 15 www.np-brijuni.hr

With a touch of luxury MAIN FEATURES he mild climate and the favourable geographical con- Proclaimed as National Park: 1983 Area: 33,9 km2 ditions, deep retracted bays and easily defendable ele- 14 islands and islets Tvated fortifications, have secured a continuum in the Entry points: by boat from Fažana or by own vessel human activity on the island from a pre-historic age until Main attractions: exotic animals the present day. On a relatively small archipelago, of an area Activities: golf, tennis, boccie, electric car rides, bike of around 7km2, have been registered some hundred sites rides and buildings of archaeological and cultural-historical val- Number of visitors: 150.000 Do not miss ue and which comprise the period from the first Neolithic POINT OF INTEREST settlements, the dugouts in the bay of Soline, until the cre- ation of an elite summer and health resort at the beginning The name of the Park comes from the words „brevona, The educational brevogno“ which means shallow sea underwater trail will of the last century by the Austrian industrial entrepreneur show you the underwater Paul Kupelwieser and the presidential residency visited by EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR part of an ancient statesmen from all over the world since 1954 until today. This concise curriculum vitae of the island, which carefully Days of Open Doors in November complex of Roman vila The Ulysses Summer Theatre preserves the traces of 5000 years of human history, makes from the 1st century. the legend of its creation even more real and when arriv- It is approximately 500 FLORA AND FAUNA ing to the island a part of Heaven discloses in front of our Plants: holm oak, Mediterranean maquis and exotic meters long and you will eyes in the unique harmony of the island’s flora, fauna and species need to use an audio heritage. A unique blend of the green islands sank into the Animals: hares, squirrels, deer game, exotic animals, guide, a diving mask and sponges, bivalves, sea turtles, dolphins turquoise-blue sea whose bays and hills are laced with the a snorkel. Apart from white Istrian rocks. numerous populations An exquisite landscape has been created by transforming of fish there is also the agricultural and forest areas into parks with spacious open famous noble pen shell, a meadows. Nowhere on the Croatian coast can you find such rare and highly protected a coherent space where holm oak and laurel blend together Ticket price: between 125 HRK and 210 HRK Mediterranean endemic and some islands hold the most preserved areas of maquis depending on the time of the year species. in this part of the Mediterranean.

16 17 www.np-krka.hr Green oasis of the Mediterranean

lively canyon of the River Krka builds waterfalls over travertine barriers and the river continues to Aflow towards the sea. Out of seven waterfalls, the MAIN FEATURES most often visited and the most beautiful ones are Skra- Proclaimed as National Park: 1985 dinski buk and Roški slap with ethnographic monuments, Area: 109 km2 some of which have been renovated. Between them lies Length of Krka: 72 km a three kilometer long picturesque lake, Visovac, in the Biggest waterfall: Manojlovac 59,6 m middle of which rises an islet of the same name with a Most visited sites: Skradinski buk and Roški slap Franciscan church and monastery. In the middle of Organized trips by boat and by bus inside the Park the Krka River canyon, in Carigradska draga, lies Krka Number of visitors: 800.000 Monastary, an important spiritual centre of the Ortho- Foreign visitors 89%, mostly German and Polish dox Dalmatian Eparchy. POINT OF INTEREST You can visit the on foot and one part The name of the Park comes from the name of the River by bike following the -Skradinski buk bike trail. whose 2/3 flow through it Do not miss On the way there are old water mills, stone facilities for washing clothes and monuments of rural architecture. EVENT OF THE YEAR Take the educational Apart from the particular beauty of its canyon and cascade Burnumske ide in August trail from Visovac Lake course, the Krka River attracts also with its free-flowing (Stinice) to Roški slap, lakes and green valleys. Even if you have visited the river FLORA AND FAUNA then take the stone- many times, you will always be impressed by its beauty. Plants: chimney bellflower, grassy bells,forests of carved stairs up to After a long walk you can relax in a restaurant serving tra- downy oak and oriental hornbeam ditional dishes. Animals: olm, bats, otter, Visovac trout Oziđana pećina Cave and experience some It is best to visit Krka in spring and summer to discov- er medieval fortresses such as the largest one, Ključica, unforgettable scenes of then fortresses Nečven and Trošenj located on the very nature, together with edge of the canyon, and archeological sites of rich flora and fauna, near Kistanje where tourists can visit the remains of a geological phenomena, Ticket price: between 30 HRK and 110 HRK Roman military camp and an amphitheatre. According depending on the time of the year cultural and historical to the number of endemic fish, the Krka River is one of localities of Krka. The the richest rivers of the Adriatic basin. Also, taking into You can find online tickets at 8,5 kilometer long walk consideration that there are 225 species of birds, this area CROATIA TICKETS > www.croatia-tickets.com takes three hours. has been recognized as ornithologically very valuable.

18 19 www.np-sjeverni-velebit.hr

Mountain that conquers MAIN FEATURES Proclaimed as National Park: 1999 Velebit Mountain was included in UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) in 1978. he huge and at first glance naked blocks of rock with Area: 109 km2 Highest peak: Veliki Zavižan, 1676 m numerous crevices, impenetrable forests, small and Highest weather station in Croatia: Zavižan, 1594 m Tlarge grassy karst valleys, pits, sinkholes, ice caves, The area of Zavižan is one of the coldest parts of Croatia ponds and cracks in limestone.... this is all Sjeverni Vel- where snowy winter lasts longer than seven months ebit, a mosaic made up of most diverse habitats which are Endemic species of Velebit degenia can be found in the home to many species of fungi, plants and animals. botanical garden. Did you know? Since the is well preserved here, the northern 16 km of Premužić Trail passes through the National Velebit is a natural habitat of the bear, wolf, lynx and Park Sjeverni Velebit is famous golden eagle. The territory of the Park has been widely Number of visitors: 15.000 for its deep vertical explored and about 1,5 thousand species of plants, fungi EVENT OF THE YEAR caves or pits. Almost and animals have been registered. Zavižan and Alan are Bike race „Ascent to Zavižan“ in June 400 of them have been areas where open grasslands alternate with green forests discovered and partly and enormous limestone blocks surrounded by peaks of- FLORA AND FAUNA explored, including the fering fascinating views of the sea and Lika. Plants: Croatian bittercress, Croatian sibirea, Velebit three deepest pits in In the Velebit botanical garden you can enjoy the diversity pink, Kitaibel’s columbine of flora, whereas Štirovača area is abundant with conifer- Animals: brown bear, wolf, lynx, chamois, capercaillie, Croatia whose depth exceeds 1000 meters ous forests, as it is also the only moist part of the Park. woodpeckers, owls, subterranean fauna Lubenovac, a spacious Velebit grassland with numerous (Lukina jama - 1431m, remains of dwellings and drywalls bears witness to a life Slovačka jama - 1320m style that once existed on the mountain. The Premužić and Jama Velebita trail will take you through the most beautiful parts of Sje- - 1026m). The most verni Velebit. Once they discover the secrets of Sjeverni famous endemic species Ticket price: 25 -45 HRK - valid for 3 days Velebit, the lovers of an active holiday in the middle of living there in Sjeverni untouched nature always return. It is said that You can find online tickets at Velebit is the Velebit need to be conquered but Velebit is a mountain that con- CROATIA TICKETS > www.croatia-tickets.com leech. quers its visitors.

20 21 www.pp-kopacki-rit.hr www.pp-biokovo.hr Empire of 300 The closest to bird species the sea from the ocated between the rivers of and Dunav, the Kopački rit is an attractive tourist highest tops Ldestination and also one of the best preserved wet- lands in Europe. Even though every visitor will surely bove the beautiful beaches of coast rises remember the endless flooplains of cane and reed giving the fascinating mountain of Biokovo – the moun- this area its particular characteristics, the largest areas in tain whose roots are in the sea, whose head is in the the Park are actually covered with white willow forests, A clouds and whose top, Sv. Jure is the second highest point whereas the oak grows on higher altitutes. The rivers and in Croatia. It can be reached following a road with many fluvial wetland in Kopački rit created its unusual relief What to visit? viewpoints from which it is even possible to see . abundant with sandbanks and river islets, as well as nu- What to visit? Those who are in good shape may choose to go on a trip merous backwaters. Many rare and endangered species of Do not miss to visit the Biokovo botanical The Bijeli Lopoč Walk and a boat trip to the by bike, or on foot or combine hiking with some trans- plants and animals found their home there and due to a garden „Kotišina“, only 3 kilometers away zoological reserve are the most attractive port, however it is necessary to bear in mind that this is very diverse fauna, the southern part of the Park has been from Makarska. a very demanding and challenging mountain where the activities for tourists.The place called Tikveš given the status of special zoological reserve.The birds of Mediterranean and Alpine climates meet. There are also is known for the19th century residential Kopački rit are certainly the specific feature of this Park. MAIN FEATURES Proclaimed as :1981 many archeological sites on Biokovo, as well as stone tu- facility and a hunters’ country villa built There are 300 species registered, of which 141 are the spe- Area: 194 km2 muli, shepherds’ dwellings, churches and chapels, towers by the Habsbourg family and used as a cies of regular or occasional nesting birds. Highest peak: Sveti Jure, 1762 m and fortresses. Today they tell the story of a life that once hunting hub, thus famous all over Europe. More than 400 caves and pits, the deepest one is Mokre existed in this area, the customs of local people, their ad- noge (-831 m) justments to the harsh conditions on this beautiful and Endemic species and symbol of Biokovo: Biokovo MAIN FEATURES relentless mountain. Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1976 bellflower Number of visitors: 55.000, foreign visitors 85%, Area: 231 km2 mostly Czech POINT OF INTEREST POINT OF INTEREST The name of the Park comes from the words for snowy The name of the Park comes from the Hungarian words white - „bil, bilak, biokova“. Long time ago, ice was taken „kapocs“ which means „a buckle“ and „ rét“ which from the ice pits and carried to the coastal area. means „wetlands meadow“. EVENT OF THE YEAR International bike race in May, Makarska - Sveti Jure, EVENT OF THE YEAR 0-1762 m Day of Open Doors in July FLORA AND FAUNA Plants: Biokovo bellflower, Dalmatian bellflower, FLORA AND FAUNA moltkia, Biokovo knapweed, Illyrian iris Plants: Hungarian iris, European white waterlily, Animals: wolf, golden eagle, wildcat, nose-horned viper, common sedge, flowering rush, Siberian iris southern festoon, chamois, mouflon Animals: white-tailed eagle, European beaver, otter, deer

Ticket price: 50 HRK

Ticket price: 10 HRK You can find online tickets at Trips between: 40 HRK - 250 HRK CROATIA TICKETS > www.croatia-tickets.com

22 23 www.pp-medvednica.hr www.pp-velebit.hr A step away from The largest park Zagreb in Croatia

he medieval town of , Zrinski mine from hichever educational trail you take in the Na- the 16th and 17th centuries, castles of Gornja Bistra ture Park Velebit, you will enjoy the natural and Tand Golubovec are only a small part of the rich her- Whistorical riches of this largest in itage of the Nature Park Medvednica. It holds eight forest Croatia. The most attractive trail, Premužić Trail, will take reserves and also three as monuments of nature – you to the most beautiful parts of Velebit. On the Terezi- Gupčeva lipa (Gubec linden tree) in , an old jana Trail you will walk on a part of the road built as ear- yew on Šupljak and another old yew by Horvatove stube. ly as 1786, which used to connect the towns of The rich forests of beech, fir, maple, ash and sessile oak and Gospić. The „Kudin most“ trail takes you to the old- Did you know? hide numerous creeks and springs, as well as abundant est bridge on the , the river of lavish waterfalls and flora and fauna. The canals of Veternica Cave are home travertine cascades. If you decide to walk from Starigrad Only in the Medvednica Nature Park can to 18 species of bats. Take one of the mountain or hik- What to visit? Senjski to Donja Klada you will take the road that was you adopt a bat for 150 HRK and help this ing trails and discover for yourself numerous chapels and In the southern part of Velebit do not miss marked back in 1847 and on your way you will see beauti- protected species to remain in its habitat – guest houses. If you are a passionate athlete, discover the the Cerovac Caves (Cerovačke špilje), one ful Adriatic coves, among which stands out as the unique Veternica Cave. Park by bike. In winter, the highest peak Sljeme opens its of the largest cave bear sites in Croatia. protected landscape. ski slope for all skiers but with all its tourist facilities, Sl- Out of the three caves with more than MAIN FEATURES jeme is equally attractive all year round. six kilometers of explored passages, Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1981 tourists can visit 700 meters of Lower and Area: 179,4 km2 Upper Caves. Located near , the Highest peak: Sljeme, 1035 m Zavratnica Cove will fascinate you with its beauty, mystique and purity of the sea. EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Medieval Days on Medvednica MAIN FEATURES European Night of Bats Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1981 Fantastic Film Festival Inscribed in UNESCO network of MAB: 1979 Vip Queen Trophy Area: 2200 km2 Medvedgrad Music Nights EVENT OF THE YEAR FLORA AND FAUNA Park Day in May Plants: yew, beech, snowdrop windflower, military orchid, Carniolan lily FLORA AND FAUNA Animals: common buzzard, white-throated dipper, Plants: Velebit degenia, Velebit bellflower, Croatian yellow-bellied toad, European crayfish, rosalia sibirea longicorn, Schreiber’s bent-winged bat, Mediterranean Animals: capercaillie, wolf, lynx, chamois, brown bear, horseshoe bat golden eagle, otter, Croatian minnow

Ticket price: 30 HRK – Veternica Cave, 23 HRK – Zrinski Mine, 15 HRK - Medvedgrad Ticket price: 50 HRK Cerovačke špilje

You can find online tickets at You can find online tickets at CROATIA TICKETS > www.croatia-tickets.com CROATIA TICKETS > www.croatia-tickets.com

24 25 www.pp-telascica.hr www.pp-lonjsko-polje.hr Three Discover the phenomena undiscovered

n the south-eastern part of ,the nature was he Nature Park of Lonjsko polje is another example of generous so a relatively small area contains steep shores how much diversity there is in Croatia. This is one of and tame coves, forests and fields, vineyards and olive Tthe largest protected floodplains of the basin, I located by the River between the towns of and groves, as well as harsh Dalmatian karst. Together with Stara Gradiška. You can enjoy the beauty of the landscape the view on the beautiful Kornati islands, the Nature Park and preserved wooden architecture, moist meadows and of Telašćica holds three phenomena particularly interest- pastures, riparian lowland forests of pedunculate oak and ing for boaters. There is a calm cove called Telašćica as one narrow-leaved ash, as well as picturesque scenes of tradi- of the safest and largest natural harbors on the Adriatic. tional system of pasturing. Among many activities you can Then there are cliffs, locally called „Stene“, showing the What to visit? Did you know? also enjoy birdwatching, walking, canoeing, cycling, horse relentless and wild side of the sea and Dalmatian envi- Picturesque villages with traditional The small island of Taljurić, only three riding, photo safari or fishing. Tributaries, ponds, wetlands ronment. Finally, salt lake Mir gives an entirely different wooden houses of Posavina, next to the meters high, is entirely underwater during and pastures are a habitat for wetland birds, together with impression. Mir is home to the species of eel, locally called River Sava and its tributaries perfectly fit storms so there is no vegetation on it and some very rare species in Europe. So far, 250 bird species „kajman“. Telašćica has been inhabited since ancient into the landscape and simultaneously have been registered in this area of which 170 species nest it looks like a flat surface from afar. Did times, as can be seen from numerous archaeological re- reflect very strict rules about organizing here, so some areas such as Krapje Đol and Rakita have been you know that the carnivorous sponge mains found in the area like the burial mounds, the Illy- the space, given the constant threat of protected as special ornithological reserves. Lonjsko polje is was found in the underwater cave on rian mounds and the remains of Roman buildings from water and floods. One such village is one of the biggest hatcheries in Europe and its pastures feed Garmenjak Veli at the depth of only 24 m? the first century. Čigoč, the first to be given the title of the some original breeds of domestic animals such as Posavac This inhabitant of great depths has so far horse, Slavonian-Srijem Podolian cattle, Croatian coldblood European Village of White Stork and also only been found in such shallow waters in and Turopolje pig. Krapje, the village of architectural heritage. France. Furthermore, the villages of Mužilovčica, MAIN FEATURES Repušnica and Osekovo should not be Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1988 neglected since they offer a fascinating Area: 70,5 km2 view on Lonjsko polje, whether flooded Scope: southern part of Dugi otok and adjoining islets or dry. The Park is a haven for donkeys POINT OF INTEREST MAIN FEATURES The old name Tilagus means three (connected) lakes Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1990 EVENT OF THE YEAR Inscribed in IBA in 1989 and RAMSAR in 1993 Days of Medicinal Herbs in May Area: 50 650 km2 FLORA AND FAUNA EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Plants: Dubrovnik knapweed, tree spurge Day of the European Stork Villages in June Animals: red coral, European shag, bottlenose dolphin, Day of the Architectural Heritage in September short-toed snake-eagle, Eurasian eagle-owl, peregrine FLORA AND FAUNA falcon, greater noctule bat Plants: alluvial forests of pedunculate oak and narrow- leaved ash, European waterclover Animals: 250 bird species – white stork, black stork, white-tailed eagle, spoonbill

Ticket price: 25 HRK for land entry Between 150 HRK and 200 HRK for smallest vessel Ticket price: 35 HRK

26 27 www.pp-papuk.hr www.pp-vransko-jezero.hr Forest oasis at Largest natural the heart of lake in Croatia ransko jezero (Vransko Lake) is the favourite des- Slavonija tination for birdwatchers and sport fishermen, however cyclists and hikers will surely enjoy the 40 n the middle of the endless Slavonian plain moun- V kilometer long bike trail with the dominant scent of sage, tains rise to almost a thouand meters above ground. stone viewpoints, rich wetland vegetation and drywalls in One of those mountains is Papuk, the most beautiful I the Mediterranean maquis. The northwestern edge of the one in Slavonija. The diverse and dense forests of Papuk biggest natural lake in Croatia became a special ornitho- are a habitat and haven for deer, doe, , fox and logical reserve because of the great number of wetland marten.... Furthermore, there are habitats of many bird Did you know? Did you know? birds. Moreover, Vransko jezero has been on the list of species, whereas fast and cold mountain creeks provide Long time ago Vransko jezero was called important European ornithological areas for more than Due to significant lithological diversity habitat for specific fish species, amphibians and reptiles. „Vedro blato“. Its cultural and historical twenty years now, nevertheless two years ago Vransko of rocks, minerals, fossils, geological The Jankovac Park-Forest is particularly rich with water jezero joined the world network of wetlands. structures and textures, and karst and water resources. The dominating feature of the Park features date back to the year 2000 BC. Hardly anywhere else could you encounter three entirely phenomena, the Papuk Nature Park is certainly the 35 meter high waterfall , known different – the sea coast with a rich archipela- for its unique beauty all around Slavonija. The most sig- MAIN FEATURES became the first Croatian in 2007 go, the Mediterranean wetland and its rich ecosystem and nificant geological site is Rupnica which became the first Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1999 and was inscribed in UNESCO’s network of the lively rural environment of Ravni kotari. . Croatian geological monument of nature already in 1948. Area: 57 km2 A great number of medieval fortifications, most of them Visitors’ centres: Prosika port and Kamenjak viewpoint originating from the 13th century, testify about the im- portance of the Papuk Hills, especially at the time of the POINT OF INTEREST Vransko jezero is the largest lake in Croatia and the Turkish invasions. Near the town of stands the name of the Park comes from the medieval town of most beautiful and most preserved “old citadel” – Ružica, Vrana, seat of Croatian viceroy (ban), the Benedictines a valuable example of Gothic and Renaissance art. You and Knights Templar MAIN FEATURES can spend a day or a weekend in the Papuk Nature Park Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1999 enjoying some adventurous activities or just walking, cy- EVENT OF THE YEAR Area: 336 km2 cling, visiting events or just admiring nature. Workshop „Vransko jezero Drywalls“ in October/ Highest peak: Papuk, 953 m November 95% of the Park is forest FLORA AND FAUNA EVENT OF THE YEAR Plants: 700 species of plants of which 1/3 are wetland Geoparks Week in May or June and water plants Animals: 256 species of birds, 102 breeding birds FLORA AND FAUNA - pygmy cormorant, purple heron, 18 fish species – Plants: greater pasque flower, Slender fritillary, marsh European eel, common carp, European catfish, northern gentian, lady orchid pike Animals: snake-eyed skink, alcon blue, Mediterranean barbel, collared flycatcher, Bechstein’s bat

Ticket price: 20 HRK

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28 29 www.pp-ucka.hr www.pp-zumberak-samoborsko-gorje.hr Mountain with Ideal getaway ith more than 347 kilometers of hiking trails, magnificent view 200 kilometers of bike trails and two climbing Wfacilities – Okić and Terihaji, then two registered paragliding fields, Japetić and Plešivica, the Nature Park he Nature Park Učka includes the mountain of Učka Žumberak – Samoborsko gorje (Žumberak-Samobor Hills) and part of the Ćićarija massif streching along the is an ideal destination for a getaway. Visitors and hikers west coast of Kvarner Bay, at one of the most north- T are thrilled by the views from Okić, Plešivica, Japetić or ern points of the Mediterranean. The proximity of the sea Sv. Gera. Even though it is clear at first sight that this is a and different climate conditions contributed to the devel- typically karst area, the Park holds 828 springs, 260 water opment of highly diverse flora and fauna. A special fea- courses and 164 ponds. Particularly beautiful are the wa- ture of this area is definitely the combination of natural terfalls such as Sopotski slap on the River Kupčina near resources and human activities in the form of many tan- its spring and waterfalls Brisalo and Vranjički slap on the gible remains and archological sites testifying about the Did you know? River Slapnica. The traditional way of life and customs in presence of man in this place since pre-historical times. In Did you know? local villages are in tune with the preserved nature, as can Back in 1852, a group of mountain climbers 1911 a tower was built on the mountain top Vojak which Žumberak has always been the centre of be seen from endless vineyards on Plešivica and its top from Rijeka completed their first ascent is in a way the symbol of the Park today as well as its view- Greek Catholics in Croatia. Their churches quality wines. on Učka. The ascent was described in the point of 360 degrees. Zagreb magazine „Neven“ under the article Učka attracts all those who enjoy mountain cycling and were built in the 18th century and still title of „Dawn on Učka“, thus being the hiking, but it partculary attracts free climbers. They pas- attract visitors with their beauty, such as oldest travel chronicle about a mountain sionately climb, in spring and autumn, the rocks of Vela the church of St. Nikola in Badovinci, St. ascent in Croatian literature. This is draga Canyon, the geomorphological monument of na- Petka in Budinjak, St. Juraj in Stojdraga, St. how Učka, until then interesting only to ture with 62 prepared climbing directions. Petar i Pavao in Sošice next to which stands scientists, became a favourite destination also a Roman of Blessed among mountain climbers, as well as Virgin Mary. tourists who were on holiday in Opatija. MAIN FEATURES MAIN FEATURES Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1999 Proclaimed as Nature Park: 1999 Area: 333 km2 Area: 160 km2 Highest peak: Sveta Gera, 1178 m Highest peak: Vojak, 1401 m Special protection area: Slapnica near Krašić, Main attractions: Vojak, Vela draga Canyon, Korita Japetić, Okić Grad and the surrounding area EVENT OF THE YEAR EVENT OF THE YEAR Učka Fair in September „Thousand years of culinary art“ – culinary workshops in September FLORA AND FAUNA Plants: Učka bellflower, Justin bellflower, Istrian FLORA AND FAUNA spearwort, sweet chestnut - marron Plants: mountain grasslands with more than 40 species Animals: golden eagle, subterranean beetle – of plants on one square meter Božićević’s filtrator ( lat. Croatodirus bozicevici) , alpine Animals: bear, wolf, 11 species of bats, 110 species of salamander birds and numerous endemic cave organisms

Free entry into the Park Free entry into the Park

30 31 www.pp-lastovsko-otocje.hr www.parkovihrvatske.hr

Fumari - All information witnesses of life in one place astovsko otočje of mystical beauty with dense forests he new and interactive web site and fertile fields, enriched with ponds, steep shores, www.parkovihrvatske.hr provides all the infor- Lland and underwater caves, as well as numerous rare Tmation on the National Parks and Nature Parks in sea and land species and habitats are among the richest Croatia in four different languages. The simple and us- and best preserved treasuries of biodiversity on the Med- er-friendly web site will take you on a virtual tour around iterranean. all of the 19 protected locations. You can find the infor- What to visit? Many stone churches reflect the rich cultural and histori- mation on available services, as well as all reccommenda- cal heritage as do the picturesque chimneys called „fuma- tions and current events. Tickets are also available online. Choose one out of many hiking and cycling ri“ which were built to show the status of home owners. Once you’ve toured these magical places, we believe you trails and discover 38 old stone churches The event called „Lastovski poklad“ ( Carnival) will feel the need to share these moments, so please do hidden around the island, dive into the gathers all of the islanders. The small town of Lastovo that at www.parkovihrvatske.hr and become a part of Adriatic at some of the most attractive is in the shape of an amphitheatre. There are still stone our community of positive energy. locations and then lift your head up houses there built in the 15th and 16th centuries. towards the second darkest sky in Europe Lučica is the last preserved example of a baroque fish- and observe galaxies as if laid out for you ermen’s settlement. The highest peak Hum is the most on a silver platter. beautiful viewpoint on the island. MAIN FEATURES Proclaimed as Nature Park: 2006 Area: 53 km2 land surface and 143 km2 sea surface Settlements: Lastovo, Zaklopatica, Skrivena luka, Ubli, Pasadur Number of islands: 44 islands, islets and reefs Largest islands: Lastovo, Sušac Number of hours of sunshine: 2700 annually Number of visitors annually: 12.000; foreign visitors 80% EVENT OF THE YEAR Lastovo Carnival („Lastovski poklad“), a 500 year old custom FLORA AND FAUNA Plants: white alyssum, Mauritanian grass, stenoendemic Dalmatian Biserrula, Sušac mustard Animals: crustaceans – colonies of the European spiny lobster, European lobster, Mediterranean slipper lobster and European spider crab, gastropods - Triton’s trumpet, zoned mitre and giant tun, several species of dolphins and sea turtles

Ticket price: 30 HRK

32 33 www.volonteri.parkovihrvatske.hr

unteers interested in working on educational activities at trails on Velebit. All those who wish to develop http://volonteri.parkovihrvatske.hr/ The challenge of their artistic and creative side can participate in and choose what suits you the most. Simply the development of artistic trails on Učka. An- send your application form – we are looking imal lovers will surely enjoy their activities of forward to it! volunteering in the Parks protecting original species on Biokovo. You can find more information on volunteering of Croatia o you enjoy the fresh air and open air during summer months at some of the most activities? Would you like to experience beautiful locations on the Adriatic coast, is- Dsomething new and make new friends? lands or inland. The biggest problem may be Would you like to do something useful for our which location and activity to choose among so planet? Are you ready to participate in mak- many attractive places. For example, if you like ing positive changes regarding nature pres- being surrounded by people, you can conduct ervations? If you have recognized yourself in surveys and provide information to visitors in the sentences above, then volunteering in the the Nature Parks of Mljet and Paklenica. If how- Parks of Croatia is the right choice for you. ever you prefer more physical activities, you can join our teams working on Mediterranean The Parks of Croatia offer a possibility for en- drywall repairs or the teams in charge of olive thusiastic people to do some voluntary work groves in Telašćica. We are also looking for vol-

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