Paklenica National Park
Starigrad
Paklenica National Park is a pilgrimage spot for climbing enthusiasts, but there's plenty to experience for travelers of all stripes. Here, you'll find two massive canyons, the Mala Paklenica Educational Center, which has displays about local flora, a few old abandoned village structures, a cave, and plenty of hiking opportunities.
If you're not coming to the park to climb, you'll want to do some hiking. Fortunately, the park has more than 93 miles (150 kilometers) of hiking paths, with options ranging from short and easy walks to longer, more strenuous treks. Thanks to the park’s infrastructure for outdoor lovers, plenty of tours stop here, and many of them offer travelers the chance to take advantage of a multitude of activities, from hiking to cycling.
Paklenica National Park is a must-visit for hikers, rock climbers, or anyone wanting easy access to nature.
Only experienced climbers should attempt the routes, and it’s wisest to climb under the tutelage of an instructor or guide.
Parts of the park are not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
Paklenica National Park is about a 45-minute drive from Zadar town or 30 minutes from Zadar Airport. You can get there by public transportation from Rijeka or Zadar, or rent a car or take a taxi for more comfort. If you’re coming from Split, your best bet is to join a private or group tour with transportation.
Paklenica National Park’s visitor center and popular Manita peć Cave are open from April to October in the day (the cave is closed on Tuesday and Thursday in spring and fall). The June to August high season can be unbearably hot, so if you come then, arrive before the sun gets too harsh.
Take a 75-minute drive from Paklenica to Plitvice Lakes National Park, possibly Croatia's best-known (and oft-photographed) national park. Characterized by its mix of gorgeous cascades tumbling into turquoise pools and its extensive network of trails, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed park is another must-see for nature lovers. It's a popular day-trip destination from Split and Zagreb.
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