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Hiking in the Plitvice Lakes – one of the world’s most beautiful locations

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Previous visitors to the Plitvice Lakes National Park know all about its unbelievable beauty and stunning nature. But even if you haven’t visited in person, you have surely seen magical photos that almost replicate the experience of visiting this part of Croatia. It may come as no surprise, therefore, that a recent study has revealed that hiking in the Plitvice Lakes region is the second most beautiful hike in the world!

Hiking in the Plitvice Lakes - An aerial shot of one of the walkways in the National Park
A typical shot of the stunning Plitvice Lakes

The world’s most beautiful hikes

It’s a spot in France – the Calanques de Marseille – that has been named the world’s most beautiful hiking location. Located in the Calanques National Park between Marseille and Cassis, this hiking route takes walkers through a landscape of white limestone cliffs dropping into turquoise Mediterranean coves, with trails ranging from easy half-day walks to multi-day treks.

After the Plitvice Lakes, third place goes to the Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland. Carved by glaciers into the Bernese Oberland, the valley sits beneath 72 waterfalls with the Jungfrau peaks towering above, giving walkers a dramatic view of the Alps.

Hiking locations in Europe certainly lead the way, taking no fewer than thirteen places in the top twenty countdown. You’ll notice that Lake Bled in neighbouring Slovenia rounds off the list – I can certainly recommend this gorgeous setting as a wonderful hiking destination too. (In fact, I can also personally recommend the Inca Trail in Peru, but Visit Croatia doesn’t cover South America…yet!)

The full list of locations can be seen in the table below

Rank  Hiking Area Location Country  Average Time Spent Looking (s)  Average Time to First Fixation (s)  Total ‘Eye-Catching’ Score /100  
1  Calanques de Marseille  Marseille France  2.69  1.78  94  
2  Plitvice Lakes Trail  Plitvice Lakes National Park Croatia  2.88  1.96  93  
3  Lauterbrunnen Valley  Bernese Oberland Switzerland  2.74  1.90  92  
4  Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Cusco Peru  2.46  1.73  91  
5  Bastei Rock Formation  Saxon Switzerland National Park Germany  2.32  1.69  90  
6  The Narrows  Zion National Park USA  2.22  1.73  87  
7  Étretat Cliff Walk  Étretat France  2.39  1.92  85  
8  The Loop  Kalbarri Australia  1.97  1.68  84  
9  Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk  East Sussex England  2.38  2.01  83  
10  Causeway Coast Way  County Antrim Northern Ireland  2.21  1.91  82  
11=  Mount Rainier Skyline Trail  Mount Rainier USA  2.65  2.38  81  
11=  Kalalau Trail  Nā Pali Coast USA  2.42  2.16  81  
11=  Torres del Paine W Trek  Patagonia Chile  2.49  2.25  81  
14  Mist Trail  Yosemite Valley USA  2.21  2.06  79  
15  Trolltunga  Hardangerfjord Norway  2.19  2.12  78  
16=  Sentiero Azzurro Cinque Terre Italy  2.05  2.08  76  
16=  Schrecksee  Allgäu Alps Germany  1.94  2.00  76  
18  Watzmann Traverse  Berchtesgaden Germany  1.69  1.82  75  
19=  Caminito del Rey  Málaga Spain  2.27  2.4  74  
19=  Lake Bled Circuit  Lake Bled Slovenia  1.96  2.1  74 
One of the many Plitvice lakes

About the study – what makes a “beautiful hike”?

The study of the world’s most beautiful hikes was conducted by SportsShoes.com, who compiled a list of the 64 most popular hiking trails worldwide. The study then selected a representative image of each destination, focusing on the most recognisable viewpoint or most photographed section of a trail from that destination. 

200 participants from around the world took part in an eye-tracking study, measuring the average time each person spent looking at each image, as well as the average time taken to their first ‘fixation’. The two data points were indexed to create a score out of 100, with the highest-scoring location deemed the most “eye-catching” and therefore the most beautiful.

What’s interesting about these results is the sheer variety of hikes: ancient ruins, coastal paths, alpine lakes and slot canyons all feature. And while some of these trails are bucket list hikes that might take months of planning to reach, others are a simple day trip from a major city.

What they do have in common, however, is that the beautiful scenery is one of the primary reasons people do them and we hope our research will inspire people to put on their hiking boots and get out there. Whether it’s a multi-day trek or just a couple of hours on a coastal path on a Sunday afternoon, having the right kit, starting with your footwear, can make all the difference.

Ben Mounsey, Trail and Outdoor Expert at SportsShoes.com

All of the research on the most beautiful hikes can be found here: www.sportsshoes.com/advice/hiking-hub/trails-inspiration/most-beautiful-hikes

Hiking in the Plitvice Lakes

The 300-square-kilometre National Park that is the Plitvice Lakes contains sixteen beautiful lakes that are interconnected by a series of waterfalls, large and small. The deeply wooded area is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, with deer, bears, wolves, boars and birds (and fish in the water!) all making their habitat here. (You are very unlikely to encounter bears and wolves, or even deer, on your visit as these animals are in the protected and more private areas of the Park.)

The paths within the Park take you right up to the edge of the calm lakes, and past the rushing water of the powerful waterfalls. The many wooden walkways and bridges over the water really get you up close. Whilst the imagery you see online gives you an idea of the amazing nature of the park, you really need to visit in person to get a proper feel for the waters here.

Plitvice sign showing details of hiking trails
Plitvice sign showing details of hiking trails

The National Park has designated eight hiking programmes within the Park, four that set off from Entrance 1 and four from Entrance 2. The shortest trails will take you about 2-3 hours to complete (the absolute shortest covers a distance of 3.5 kilometres), whilst the longest take around 6-8 hours to complete (the longest is 17.5 kilometres). Not all trails are open all year round, and whatever hiking trail you undertake, make sure you have appropriate footwear!

Some may not consider these Park walks true hikes, so to those I say – well, hold on! The Park does also have information on what would be considered “proper” hiking in the Plitvice Lakes – you can find more information on this on the Plitvice Lakes National Park website. Do please pay attention to the hiking rules listed on that page.

Whatever hike you choose, wherever in the world it may be, you are sure to encounter a magical experience. Happy hiking!

Risnjak summit

There is amazing hiking around Rijeka, even without a car!

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Regular contributor John from Rijeka recently shared a highly entertaining account of climbing the Via Ferrata Bat in Dalmatia. A keen adventurer, here John shares with us the many options for hiking around Rijeka, including on the nearby islands. Very helpfully, John recommends (and includes transport information for) many hikes that are possible without a car. (All photos in this post have been provided by John.)

Despite its reputation for cool beaches, Rijeka is surrounded by amazing possibilities for hiking, most obviously in Gorski Kotar but also on the islands. Reading the limited tourist information available, it would appear that all these hiking options can only be accessed by car. This is certainly not true! There are plenty of options accessible by public transportation, and in many cases, they allow better point-to-point routes without the need to always loop back to a car.

The website of the local bus company Autotrolej is your friend, but even the limited train service provides a few options.

Hike right from the centre of Rijeka

However, before considering buses and trains, there is an even easier option that does not involve public transportation. A dramatic canyon following the Rjecina River starting almost in the centre of Rijeka provides surprisingly adventurous hiking. Find Titov Trg (Tito’s Square) and follow the right-hand side of the river inland through an industrial area which leads to a short steep climb into the canyon. This can be followed for an hour to the first road bridge and back, or followed all the way to the source where the river bursts out of the base of a huge cliff, and then returning on the bus from Kukuljani (zone 4, route 12).

Get the mountain feel near Hahlić and Platak

The Hahlić area has a real mountain feel and is easily accessible from Rijeka – get off where the bus turns around at Podkilavac, which can be reached every two hours on route 16 (zone 4). You may have to change buses in Dražice, but this is very easy and straightforward. There are at least three different paths up to the hut of Hahlić, and there are several peaks to climb in the immediate surrounding area. The most dramatic and challenging path to Hahlić is up Mudna Dol. This demands some basic climbing skills and is a great adventurous day out.

Hiking around Rijeka - Descending-from-Hahlic
Descending-from-Hahlic

At weekends, there is a secret bus (zone 4, route 12B) to the mountain resort of Platak. This is an excellent way to climb Risnjak, the most spectacular mountain peak in the region. This bus can also be used for one-way hikes from Platak to Podkilavac. There are several options; the shortest, going directly between the two, is about 13 kilometres in length, whilst going via Hahlić hut is about 20 kilometres. The advantage of starting at Platak is that there is more down than up.

Risnjak summit
Risnjak summit

Head to Kastav for spectacular views

Bus number 19 runs up to the historical and very cute town of Kastav (zone 3), which is worth a visit in its own right with fantastic views across the whole Kvarner Bay and Gorski Kotar. There are several easy circular hikes, marked as Snail Rabbit, and Deer (puž, zec and srna).  On the official tourism website, the lengths aren’t given, but they are about 4, 10, and 18 kilometres respectively. They are also excellent for trail running.

Hikes close to Opatija

For those wanting a true hiking challenge, the no.32 bus runs about every 40 minutes from Rijeka to Opatija (zone 3) and Lovran (zone 4). From Lovran, there is a steep path from the sea to the summit of Učka – make sure you take plenty of water with you! An easier but not easy option is to stay on the bus to Brseč, which is another amazing clifftop village, and hike up Sisol.

The summit of Bitoraj
The summit of Bitoraj

The train (see schedules on the Croatia Railways website) towards Zagreb runs irregularly to Fužine, and it is possible to visit this famous mountain village for the day and take a gentle walk around the lake. However, one of my favourite options is to take the train for another 5 minutes to Vrata and to hike up the mountain of Bitoraj. There is a beautiful, well-maintained hut just ten minutes below the summit if you want an overnight adventure. The hut is unmanned but always open. There is solar lighting and a rainwater collection system; perhaps bring purification tablets or a filter, or boil it before drinking.

Bitoraj hut
Bitoraj hut
The sleeping area in Bitoraj hut
The sleeping area in Bitoraj hut

Hiking around Rijeka – on the islands

For those wanting to mix hiking and swimming, there are plenty of options on the islands. One great hike is to take the bus to Nezerine or Ćunski on the island of Lošinj and hike up to the peak of Laća, carrying on along the ridge and dropping down to Osor to get the bus back. This can just as easily be done from the towns of Mali and Veli Lošinj.

Hiking around Rijeka - High on Losinj island
High on Losinj island

From Cres Town, most easily reached by catamaran from Rijeka, there is a two-hour hike each way to the almost too beautiful to be real beach at Sveti Blaž. Bring your swimming costume and plenty of water!

For the more ambitious, there is a hiking trail that exists along the whole length of Cres and Lošinj islands, called the Via Apsyrtides. I have absolutely no idea how to pronounce this, but individual stages can be accessed by bus (check out the Arriva website for timetables) from Cres, usually departing early in the morning, returning mid-afternoon.

The catamaran from Rijeka runs daily to Cres and Mali Lošinj; other than these towns, it stops at different towns and islands depending on the day. With a little planning, it is possible to disembark at Martinšćica (again, don’t even try to pronounce it – I can, but it took me 5 years to get it right!). The 28-kilometre hike from there back to Cres over Lubenice is truly spectacular. It might be worth taking it slowly over two days, sleeping in Lubenica or Valun, which would allow for the strenuous but worthwhile descent for a swim at the stunning Lubenice beach.

On Krk, my favourite hike involves taking the bus from Rijeka to Baška, but getting off at the top of the pass before the final descent – near the peak of Straževnik, which is also easily accessible by bus from Baška itself. The beautiful, if rocky, path leads along the ridge top to the southern tip of the island with numerous options to drop down the Baška for a swim and the bus back to Rijeka. The Vrženica Canyon is another fun favourite in Baška.

In Vrzenica canyon
In Vrzenica Canyon
Hiking near Baska
Hiking near Baska
Looking south from Baska
Looking south from Baska

More hiking options

I’ve listed some of my favourite hiking routes here; there are, of course, many, many more. It is unfortunate that the local tourist boards do not cater for those without cars, but it can be done. The local bus network is surprisingly comprehensive and useful, even if timetables and ticketing are not so easy to understand. I know that Zadar (check out Velebit, the Dolomites without the crowds) and Split also have many similar options.

Thank you once again, John, for this highly informative guide to hiking around Rijeka!

Read more of John’s excellent reports below:

VIa Ferrata Bat in Dalmatia

Via Ferrata Bat in Dalmatia makes for a true mountain adventure

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John Clayton is a UK citizen who has been living in the coastal city of Rijeka for over 15 years. A very active chap, he has previously written for Visit Croatia on topics such as Is Croatia a cross-country skiing paradise? Almost!, Croatia: cycling heaven, and also cycling hell and Open Water Swimming in Croatia. In this new post, John goes climbing in Dalmatia on the Via Ferrata Bat with his teenage daughter…who also has a say about their adventure!

Out of the door and I’m on the road by 8am with my 13-year-old daughter Ellie. It’s a beautiful morning, perfect for a mountain adventure, in this case, Ellie’s first-ever Via Ferrata. For those who don’t know, Via Ferrata is a sport very similar to climbing, but with less equipment and faster, as everyone can climb at the same time. There is a fixed cable which you clip into, so there is no need for a rope and a sack full of carabiners.

8am!! and on a weekend!! I’m a teenager, it may as well be the middle of the night. I am keen to try Via Ferrata but 8am is insanely early. Fine if it keeps my dad happy I’ll try not complain too much. I know he’s frustrated that we can’t get there by public transportation so I’ll try not to fuss too much (just enough to be a little annoying)

VIa Ferrata Bat in Dalmatia near the start
Still smiling near the start

It’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Rijeka to the small Dalmatian town of Gračac, inland from Zadar, just a couple of miles from the start of the Via Ferrata Bat route up the mountain of Crnopac.

I don’t feel great on the drive and I can’t wait to get out of the car. I don’t dare eat breakfast before driving so I’m getting hungry, but I won’t eat breakfast until we stop driving... Oh look there is good music on Radio 101.

Starting the Via Ferrata Bat and climbing info

We park, and we’re soon hiking up to the start. The route we’re attempting is called “Bat”; I’m not sure why it’s called that. I don’t think it has anything to do with bats. It’s one of the few Via Ferratas in Croatia, the rest mainly being south of Split. The information on the route is a little sketchy, but it seems it’ll take us about two hours. We should be back to the car in time for a late lunch.

The path to the start is vague, weaving through the forest, over boulders, and irritatingly it keeps going down as well as up. I’m longer feeling sick but can’t wait to get onto the rock, this battle through the jungle is tedious. Why is it taking so long? I did warn that I was going to complain just the right amount didn’t I?

Via Ferrata Bat on the steep ladder
On the steep ladder
Via Ferrata Bat
Looking down

One of the best things about Via Ferrata is that our packs are relatively light. The only equipment we need to carry is climbing harnesses and helmets, so much lighter than rock climbing, mainly as there’s no rope needed. After 45 minutes, we spot the cable marking the start of the route. Ellie has been climbing plenty of times, so it doesn’t take long before we’re buckled up, clipped into the first cable and on our way upwards.

The grade of the route is B+/C, so not the easiest, which would be ‘A’, but certainly far from being an ‘E’, which is the hardest. As difficulty is so subjective, it’s impossible to know in advance how hard the route will be. However, it’s going well so far, and we’re making good progress, mixing easy scrambling and the odd harder move. Although there is always a cable to clip into, the gaps between the anchors can be several meters. You really wouldn’t want to fall off if at all possible. Most is straightforward, but a few of the moves are not straightforward and need concentration. I prefer to stand below Ellie in case she slips.

The climbing is a little scary at times but worse I end up in knots, at each anchor I have to unclip one carabiner on the end of a leash and then clip it into the cable above the anchor, and then do the same with the second one to ensure we’re always clipped in. It seems simple enough and we practiced at home but somehow my two leashes keep getting twisted and tangled. I need to stop every five minutes to untangle them.

VIa Ferrata Bat in Dalmatia
An easy bit before the fun starts again

Up, up and up

After an hour, we have the sensation of being high in the mountains. We look down towards Gračac and the mountains of Bosnia on one side and over Zadar and a wide, beautiful view over to the islands on the other.  The sky is mainly blue, but darker patches of cloud are swirling around us. The occasional hail shower puts me a little on edge. While the climbing moves are not so difficult, it’s an unforgiving landscape, and a retreat would be tricky.

It was clear by now that the two hour estimate was wildly unrealistic, after two hours we’re barely half way up and it turns out that our only supplies consist of a packet of Jaffa Cakes and a bag of Smoki (the best Balkan savoury snack, try them). The car, with our lunch, is way below in the trees somewhere far beyond, hidden from humanity!

Climbing in Dalmatia
Easier climbing
Not far from the summit
Not far from the summit

However, the sky is clear when we reach the steepest part of the route. As is often the case on Via Ferratas, the steepest part is rarely the most difficult, as there are plenty of artificial handholds and steps. In this case, there is an easy ladder to climb, much easier than some of the sloping slabs we’d already crossed lower down without any artificial aids.

The situation is truly dramatic and spectacular. We’re climbing up and over vertiginous rock ridges, finding our way through the spires and across mini-canyons. We stop briefly for some snacks, but I’m keen to keep moving. The top is in sight but still some way to go, however, the angle has eased, and it’s clear that if necessary, we could now scramble around the harder moves.

3 hours after we first clipped in, we finally arrived at the summit.

Phew!!!!! I loved the ladder part, steeper but easier but now I’m starving! Finally it’s time to eat.

Ferrata Bat - At the summit
At the summit of the Via Ferrata Bat

Time to head back down

Having finished the last of our Smoki and water we start the descent. It is steep and slow going, while not as hard as the ascent, there is no cable despite some precarious moves. The trail is marked by the usual painted red and white circles. I lose the trail a couple of times, but know from experience that it is essential to go back and find it rather than to attempt any alternative route. It is like fighting through a rock jungle, and the route is far from clear.

A very long hour later, we found ourselves on a real path. We also meet the first other people we’d seen all day, a couple from Bihać in Bosnia. They had also done the same route just ahead of us.

The way down is harder than the way up! It certainly feels very remote and wild. It truly is a maze of rock, with tricky downward moves, always harder than going up. I’m very happy when we finally reach a proper path – hurray, we’re saved, I’ve survived my first Via Ferrata!

Bat Ferrata in Dalmatia - The not so easy way down
The not-so-easy way down

The easy path winds its way through the forest, past the start of the route and to the car, six hours after we’d left it. It may have been a much longer day out than anticipated, but it was genuinely a magnificent mountain day. I think we deserve pizza, and a cold beer for me, so we head down to the coast to find a campsite near the national park of Paklenica, the most famous rock climbing cliff in Croatia, which we will explore tomorrow.

What an amazing day!

What an amazing (and hungry) day!

Practicalities for the Via Ferrata Bat

The Via Ferrata Bat is open to anyone and is free. It certainly demands some climbing experience. If you can climb French Grade 4a you should be fine. Unfortunately, there is nowhere to rent equipment, so you need to bring it with you.

From the north of Croatia, a car is the only realistic option. Gračac can be reached by bus and train, but it’s very slow and complicated. However, from Split in the south, the train could be a feasible option. It’s about 2 miles/3km from the town to the start.

Thank you very much to John and Ellie for this highly entertaining and informative piece!

Papuk Nature Park

Spotlight on: Papuk Nature Park

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Large swathes of Croatia are home to absolutely beautiful nature – you may well have been lucky enough to have visited one of the eight national parks or one of the many nature parks. The country’s nature parks are perhaps less known than the national parks, especially those such as Plitvice and Krka, but let me tell you – they are no less gorgeous, or any less dedicated to absolutely stunning nature. One such place is Papuk Nature Park, located in Slavonia in Eastern Croatia which has also been designated a Geopark – Croatia’s first. It is an area that offers so much for all ages – nature, yes, but also adventure and activities, and the opportunity to learn more about the amazing geological history at the local info centres.

If you’re visiting Croatia this autumn, consider a trip to Papuk Nature Park – it’s one of the best times of year to visit!

Papuk Nature Park

About Papuk Nature Park

Papuk Nature Park is centred around Papuk Mountain, the largest mountain in Slavonia, although at “only” 953 metres high, it pales in comparison to some of its coastal cousins! However, the mountain area extends over more than 300 square kilometres of incredible diversity, from dense beech and oak forests to steep cliffs to peaceful valleys and streams.

The mountain has an amazing geological history, for it was once an island in the Pannonian Sea many millions of years ago. Fossils found in the nature park’s rocks attest to the life that once flourished here.

Papuk was designated a nature park in Croatia in 1999; this status means that the park’s activities are dedicated to protecting and preserving the nature that is located here.

In 2007, Papuk Nature Park was awarded the status of a Geopark, part of the European Geoparks Network and part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. A geopark is an area of significant geological heritage that promotes sustainable economic development and preserves its heritage for the benefit of the local community.

Start your visit at the Geo Info Centre

Start your exploration of the park at the Geo Info Centre, located in Vocin – one of the main entrances to the park. This modern multimedia space tells the full story of the Geopark from geological, biological and historical viewpoints. It is here that you can learn more about the fascinating history of Papuk as an island in the Pannonian Sea, and how rocks, mountain ranges and entire ecosystems were formed so long ago. You will be able to fully immerse yourself in a time when dinosaurs roamed the land, when the ice age was prevalent or when the first human communities started populating the area.

The Geo Info Centre includes numerous fully interactive displays and experiences, not least the 6D Cinema Hall. You will really feel like you’ve gone back in time!

The 6D Cinema Hall at Geo Info Centre, Papuk Nature Park
The 6D Cinema Hall at the Geo Info Centre

Those with an archaeological interest will be fascinated by the displays showing numerous different periods of the Papuk region. Find out how people lived in this part of the world from the Iron Age through to the Middle Ages.

There are also numerous exhibits on the flora and fauna of the park, and young kids will delight in the Geo Capsule corner where they can explore to their heart’s content.

Papuk Nature Park

The Geo Info Centre is open Tuesday to Friday from 8am to 5pm, and on weekends and public holidays from 9am to 5pm.

Tickets are priced at €8 for adults, €7 for concessions and €6.50 for children aged 4 to 18 years.

Visiting Papuk Nature Park

What could be better than surrounding yourself with the stunning nature of the park? Papuk really does lend itself to a multitude of walks or hikes throughout its area. Whilst exploring, you may come across Jankovac Forest Park and its lakes or Skakavac waterfall. Maybe you’ll spot an Ivanjski rovaš whilst you’re roaming? That’s the smallest lizard in Croatia!

If you want to extend your knowledge of the nature park, consider signing up for one of the educational programmes that are available.

Papuk Nature Park

Activities in Papuk Nature Park

If you’re interested in something beyond “just” enjoying the stunning nature here, there are many adventurous activities for you to take part in.

Adrenaline Park Duboka offers an aerial assault course for kids and adults, whilst another adrenaline park is being built in Slatinski Drenovac that will offer ziplining, climbing and more.

Do also look at the Nature Park’s Outdoor Programmes for details on activities such as canoeing, mountaineering, climbing, geocaching and even horse riding.

Getting here

The Nature Park is roughly 200 kilometres southeast of Zagreb, and about 100 kilometres west of Osijek. Really, the Nature Park is best visited by car and would be an ideal stop if you’re exploring this part of continental Croatia.

There are four entrances to the park – the aforementioned entrance at Vocin (where the Geo Info Centre is located), two more northern entrances at Slatinski Drenovac and Orahovica and a southern entrance at Velika.

For a longer stay, there’s a small campground – Camp Duboka – which can accommodate 11 campervans, and which also has an area for tents.

More info

You can learn plenty more about the lush nature of Papuk Nature Park on the official website www.pp-papuk.hr or on Vrata Papuka.

New River Kayaking Tours with Narona Kayaking

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The Neretva Valley region of Croatia is – get this! – a greatly overlooked part of the country, one that visitors often miss. That can’t be right, you must be thinking…surely all parts of Croatia are very much “looked” at these days? Not so! Blessed with beautiful nature and a rich cultural heritage, it’s another truly gorgeous part of Croatia. The Neretva Valley, north of Dubrovnik and slightly inland from the Peljesac Peninsula, is also a great place for activity holiday – and new company Narona Kayaking have just launched their “safari” river kayaking tours here.

Narona Kayaking - Aerial view of kayakers paddling on Norin river in Neretva valley. Situated near the city of Metković in Dalmatia, Croatia.
Aerial view of kayakers paddling on the River Norin in the Neretva Valley.
Situated near the city of Metković in Dalmatia, Croatia.

Guided Kayaking Tours on the River Norin

Led by licensed guides, Narona Kayaking’s tours set forth on the River Norin in the Neretva Valley, fully taking in all the beautiful nature the area has to offer.

All are welcome on the tours, with children as young as three years old even being able to join. That makes Narona Kayaking’s tours an excellent family activity, and young and old (and all those in between) will thoroughly enjoy them. Likewise, kayakers of all ability levels are welcome, whether you’re an experienced kayaking pro or a complete beginner.

The tours are led by licensed and experienced guides, who are present throughout the duration of each tour. Prior to setting off, all kayakers receive a safety briefing as well as a short lesson on kayaking to ensure that everyone can set off and enjoy their kayaking tour with confidence.

Narona Kayaking
Narona Kayaking

All necessary kayaking equipment is provided – this includes life jackets, waterproof bags, paddles and…kayaks!

The number of participants of each tour is limited, to ensure maximum safety and a personal touch for each guest.

Narona Kayaking Tour Route

Each tour starts in the idyllic village of Vid which, although small these days, has an amazing history. Vid was founded by the Greeks – as Narona – in the 5th/4th centuries BC, soon experiencing rapid growth and continuing to flourish when the Romans took control in the 1st century BC. (Alongside Salona/Solin, which is near Split, Narona was at one point the largest city in the Eastern Adriatic.) As you can imagine, Vid is home to some amazing archeological finds, many of which can be seen in the Narona Archeological Museum.

From Vid, the tour will see kayakers paddle downstream on the River Norin towards Momici and just beyond to the Restaurant Lopoc, which is the final destination.

Aerial view of kayakers paddling on the River Norin in the Neretva Valley.
Situated near the city of Metković in Dalmatia, Croatia.

The River Norin, one of the tributries of the larger Neretva River, is an excellent setting for a kayak tour as it’s a calm and gentle river, making it a breese to paddle on. Additionally, the river is in a gorgeous natural site with plenty of rich flora and fauna all around, part of the river flowing through an ornithological site. Just take a look at the images in this post to see the gorgeous nature that’s here!

The tour will offer you the opportunity to stop in a green oasis – the perfect place for taking a break, enjoying the natural beauty all around and even going for a swim. When in the kayak, you’ll be passing along several branches of the river and through reed fields.

All of the above provides the perfect backdrop to learn more about the history, cultural and traditions of the Neretva Valley, which you’ll be able to do through the stories of your talented and knowledgeable guide.

Tours are 4 hours in total (over a course of 6 kilometres). Additionally, Narona Kayaking can organise tours that include pick up from Dubrovnik or Makarska, and which also include an additional trip (not by kayak!) to Kravice Waterfalls in Bosnia.

Discovering the Neretva Valley

These kayaking tours are the perfect place to explore a part of Croatia that’s lesser-known – to some visitors, at least. The Neretva Valley is actually well known for its mandarin orchards and its rich gastronic offering. And these days, adventure tourism is putting a spotlight on the region – with Narona Kayaking undertaking such tours in a way that’s sustainable and respectful of the environment and the local community. These kayaking tours are a wonderful experience that combine recreation, an educational aspect, and contact with nature.

What better way to relax on holiday than a tour set in gorgeous nature? One which the whole family will enjoy, kids and adults alike. Spending quality time together – your whole group will be exceedinly happy!

Booking Narona Kayaking Tours

You can find out more about the tours that Narona Kayaking offer on their website naronakayaking.com.

Tours are held daily during the summer months, and during pre- and post-season depending on weather conditions.

All photos credit – Narona Kayaking

Spas in Croatia - Terme Sveti Martin

Thermal Spas in Croatia

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While holidays are normally ultra-laid-back in general, something that can really up the relaxation stakes is a visit to a spa! Here, we round up some of the best thermal spas in Croatia.

Thermal spas generally make use of naturally occurring hot waters under the earth; these are used in the spas’ pools for therapeutic and restorative reasons. Many of the spas featured in this guide do so, and for that reason, many of the spa resorts are used by people for physical rehabilitation. However, this kind of water therapy can also greatly help anyone with skin issues or rheumatic conditions, even those with certain injuries, and also those seeking fertility treatments.

These spas also offer large pools, usually both indoor and outdoor, with elements to entertain the whole family (hello, water slides!) as well as beauty treatments and other typical restorative spa options. Whilst the indoor sections of these spas are more than enough to entertain during a visit, the large outdoor parts also mean they’re great to visit over the warmer months.

Many of the thermal spas featured here are in inland Croatia, in locations that are perhaps not so frequently visited by foreign tourists. Why not combine a visit to one of these spas in Croatia with exploring the interior of the country too?

Terme Tuhelj, Tuheljske Toplice, central Croatia

Just 40km from Zagreb, a visit to Terme Tuhelj could be easily undertaken as a day trip or an overnight break when visiting Croatia’s capital. Established just over 20 years ago, this modern spa is based on a thermal spring and a healing mud spring, and these are two of the main benefits of visiting this spa. The sulphurous outdoor pool has a constant temperature of 32/33C which is incredibly soothing for bathers. Do also cover yourself in the therapeutic mud for the ultimate in natural healing.

In such an environment, it’s no surprise that the Terme Tuhelj spa is also home to a large-scale beauty and treatment spa named the SPAeVITA Center. The treatment list is vast, and surely their signature massage with thermal mud is a popular choice. Should that not feel quite right for you, you could opt for a chocolate massage (wow!) or a regular massage with aromatic oils.

Thermal Spas in Croatia - Terme Tuhelj Resort
Part of the pool complex at Terme Tuhelj

Another massive draw to this place is the huge pool complex covering 15,000 square metres – in fact, the largest such complex in Croatia! This includes water slides, a wave pool, a small section for the youngest swimmers and a children’s water city for those aged between 3 and 10. As an adult, carry on with your relaxation in the 250-metre-long lazy river which flows into two lagoons that offer underwater massage currents. You can even enjoy a cocktail in the water.

The accommodation choice is vast here, from the four-star Hotel Well to Camp Vita, one of the top-rated campsites in Croatia. There are also luxury modern mobile homes at the Terme Tuhelj Glamping Lodge or get more at one with nature by staying in one of the Safari Tents.

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Terme Sveti Martin, northern Croatia

Terme Sveti Martin is located in the very northern tip of Croatia, very close to the border with Slovenia, in the lovely region of Medjimurje. Declaring itself the “first healthness resort in Europe”, this resort is the ultimate for those wanting a peaceful break in nature. Surrounded by 27 hectares of beautiful countryside, you will find yourself surrounded by gorgeous greenery at all times…and may even come close to wild deer.

The resort’s principle target is promoting healthness which they say combines “active rest, wellness experience, and [a] raising awareness of one’s own health”. Where to start your journey into this than at the pool complex, called The Temple of Life, where the thermal-mineral waters are at a constant temperature of 35C. Containing lithium, selenium and potassium, a dip in the pool is sure to give you an energy recharge and also provide an anti-inflammatory effect for anyone looking for skin treatments. Just the surroundings of the pool, with its calming wooden materials and softly curved structures, will put you in a relaxing mood. Unbelievably, the waters here are believed to be 43,000 years old – but only known in modern times since 1911 when the ground was drilled to search for oil. (Something better was found instead!)

Terme Sveti Martin - Thermal Spas in Croatia
Terme Sveti Martin – The Temple of Life pool (Credit: Terme Sveti Martin)

Beauty and spa treatments are also readily available here, of course, in the 1,800 square metre spa centre. Opt for one of their signature grape seed massages which they use as an anti-oxidant for promoting a youthful appearance. That’s just one of the interesting treatments on offer – others include a pumpkin body care programme, a milk and honey treatment, and a cherry blossom and lotus body treatment (which is Japanese-inspired). There are special beauty treatments aimed at teenagers, massages for pregnant ladies and even “mummy and me” or “daddy and me” wellness treatments aimed at parents and their children.

Body vitality scans are also available for you to book – these are diagnostic scans that may help identify certain ailments or issues and may result in recommendations for lifestyle or nutritional changes.

Families will be delighted by the small water park MartiLandia with its selection of outdoor pools with water slides.

In terms of accommodation, there’s the four-star Hotel Terme Sveti Martin or the Terme Sveti Martin Apartments which are very suitable for those travelling as a family or with pets.

Daruvar Spa, Slavonia, eastern Croatia

Davruvar Spa is located around 140km southeast of Zagreb in the Slavonian spa town of Daruvar which has long been associated as a location for healing water treatments…even as far back as Roman times. The spa places great importance on physical therapy and rehabilitation and many of the guests staying here are undertaking such programmes. Daruvar Spa also focuses on fertility treatments, and offers a longer-stay programme in this regard called “Joy of Life“. Stress relief and weight loss programmes are also offered.

One of the pools at Daruvar Spa
One of the pools at Daruvar Spa (Credit: Daruvar Spa)

Of course, as with any thermal spa, this one has several indoor and outdoor pools filled with thermal water with temperatures ranging from 28C to 35C. This thermal water is said to help with joint, muscle bone issues, and rheumatic illnesses although anyone is sure to benefit. One of the pools also offers aqua-spinning – riding an underwater bicycle – which is an excellent way of achieving the benefits of cycling whilst being far easier on joints and muscles than riding on a hard surface.

Accommodation is offered in the three-star Hotel Termal or the Depandansa Arcadia, located in a 19th-century building.

Istarske Toplice, Istria, coastal Croatia

Anyone wishing to combine a spa break on the Croatian coast with some time at a thermal spa should definitely consider Istarske Toplice. This spa is located in inland Istria, close to the town of Buzet, and about 50km northeast of Porec,

The resort’s thermal pools contain sulphuric mineral-rich waters that have an average temperature of 32-34C. The centre also offers medicinal mud treatments in which mud is layered onto the skin at a thickness of 3-4cm and a temperature of 40C for around 40 minutes, before being washed off by the thermal water.

Spas in Croatia - Istarske Toplice
Istarske Toplice (Credit: Istarske Toplice)

There are many other therapies and treatments here besides – sulfur vapour inhalation which targets respiratory tract illnesses and inflammation; kinesiotherapy; water therapy; electrotherapy; massage therapy and more.

Istarske Toplice is also home to a number of different saunas including an infra sauna, a Finnish sauna and an aroma steam sauna that makes use of medicinal herbs.

For accommodation, why not stay at one of the many private rentals located nearby?

Varazdinske Toplice, northern Croatia

The oldest thermal spa in Croatia, the Roman settlement Aqua Iasae was once located here, and the thermal waters were used as a spa all those centuries ago. But even the modern-day Varazdinske Toplice resort has its roots in a spa that was first opened in the 18th century, and by the early 1900s, the spa had become a popular destination for those seeking medical treatments.

The resort offers a very wide range of medical therapy, from many water-based therapies that involve the thermal waters to more usual treatments such as cryotherapy and paraffinotherapy.

Thermal Spas in Croatia - Varazdinske Toplice
The outdoor pools at the Varazdinske Toplice spa resort (Credit: Minerva)

Those not seeking treatments will be able to have plenty of fun in the numerous pools, especially the outdoor pools with water slides.

Other Thermal Spas in Croatia

The Stribor Resort in the gorgeous inland Gorski Kotar region (around 90km east of Rijeka) provides the perfect opportn

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Terme Bjelovar is presently under construction, due to open in 2026. Located in the northern town of Bjelovar, the complex will eventually offer seven different pools including an Olympic-sized one.

More info

For other super relaxing destinations and locations in Croatia, look at our A Wellness Break in Croatia guide. This guide includes plenty of recommendations for spa hotels in Croatia, especially some very fine options on the Croatian coast.

Is Croatia a cross-country skiing paradise? Almost!

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John Clayton is a UK citizen who has been living in the coastal city of Rijeka for 15 years. Following on from his previous post about Croatia: cycling heaven, and also cycling hell, in his latest post here, John talks about something you may now consider about Croatia – cross-country skiing!

I’ve just discovered the perfect winter activity for Croatia. I’m just not quite sure what it is called:  Nordic ski touring? off-track cross-country skiing? Backcountry cross-country skiing? All are used but none quite have the right ring. Whatever the name is it, the mountains in Croatia are perfect for it.

Maybe it’s easier to describe than name, making your own cross-country ski trails to explore the mountains. This is very common in Nordic countries and in parts of the US but rare elsewhere. However, it turns out I have the perfect terrain on my doorstep. Gorski Kotar is the mountainous region just northwest of Rijeka, bordering Slovenia. It is almost entirely forested and when the snow falls the forestry trails transform into a perfect, picturesque network of snowy tracks just waiting to be skied.

Beautiful skiing winderness
Beautiful skiing wilderness
Skiing in the twilight on Bitoraj
Skiing in the twilight on Bitoraj

We discovered this niche type of skiing almost by accident. A couple of times a year we would go cross-country skiing in Slovenia using rented gear. It was certainly fun but the equipment was never very good and the boots always hurt. So we bought cheap sets of traditional track cross-country skis, aiming just to have something cheap but better than worn-out rental equipment. Once we had the equipment of course we wanted to use it. So whenever there was enough snow, we’d find ourselves making our own tracks up at Platak – the main ski “resort” in Croatia. We made many excellent trips but clearly our equipment wasn’t ideal so last year we invested in wider skis, stiffer boots and binding, and touring poles with wider baskets. It has proved to be a great decision as it has opened up so many new amazing winter adventures in the mountains.

Croatia cross-country skiing - bear tracks
Bear tracks
Wolf tracks
Wolf tracks

Over Christmas this year we explored the forest around Begovo Razdolje, the highest village in Croatia, near Mrkopalj. We had two beautiful sunny days, skiing our way up into new areas with trails forking off at every turn, all waiting to be explored another day. Other than a handful of hikers on snowshoers in the distance, we had the mountains to ourselves. Ourselves and the bears to be precise, both days we came across fresh bear tracks – shouldn’t they be hibernating?

Heading down to Begovo Razdolje
Heading down to Begovo Razdolje
Heading up from Begovo Razdolje
Heading up from Begovo Razdolje
Skiing past a memorial to Patizans at Matic Poljana
Skiing past a memorial to Patizans at Matic Poljana

Transport to skiing and cross-country skiing locations in Croatia

Unfortunately, there is no public transportation to Begovo Razdolje so we had to hire a car, which luckily is remarkably cheap here in winter. More conveniently there is a public bus to Platak from Rijeka on weekends. Platak is the most popular ski area in Croatia and is just 35km from Rijeka.  We recently had another fabulous snowy day exploring the trails in this area, and as usual, the more we explored the more potential we found for future trips. The weather was great in the morning but the snow forecast for the afternoon turned out to be rain, so we retreated to “Mali Dom” at Platak to dry out and to be revived by hot wine.

More surprisingly for Croatia, we even managed to go skiing by train. The trains in coastal Croatia are notoriously bad so rarely useful for leisure purposes. I like to think that we might even be the first people ever to ski by train in Croatia. We took the early afternoon train from Rijeka to Vrata, just a few minutes past Fužine, and headed up the slopes of Bitoraj mountain. We turned back just in time to catch the train back at 5pm. It was only a two-hour ski trip but a truly remarkable one, boarding the train in Rijeka in ski boots and being back home within four hours having skied in Gorski Kotar. All for less than €5 each!

Just in time for the train back to RIjeka
Just in time for the train back to RIjeka

Of course, Croatia, famous as a hot summer destination, does not have reliable snow and like everywhere else is affected by climate change. As I write this, the mountains are almost bare of snow. Three days of rain cleared the snow completely and the few flakes that fell yesterday look pretty but are nowhere near enough to ski on. Now we have to be patient and hope for more snow while appreciating that we had such an excellent Christmas.

Croatia can be very snowy
Croatia can be very snowy
On Bitoraj mountain
On Bitoraj mountain

I’d love to be able to propose Croatia for a cross-country skiing holiday but it’s just not realistic. It really can be truly incredible but luck plays too much of a role when planning any snow sport here. You need to be nearby and waiting. However for anyone in the region when the snow does fall, the opportunities are as good as anywhere in the world. Maybe there should be a name for this combination of skiing, patience and luck, Gorski Hrvatskiing? No, perhaps not.

On a practical note, we are now using 80mm backcountry cross-country skis with backcountry “BC” NNN boots and bindings. This set-up is perfect. However, there is plenty of fun to be had on traditional track ski gear. The narrow pole baskets sinking into fresh snow is probably the biggest frustration.

I’ve uploaded most of the routes we’ve done onto Wikiloc if anyone is interested. My username is Safatempo – see Safatempo’s trails and waypoints | Wikiloc : wikiloc.com.

Thank you once again, John, for such an informative and in-depth post, with some gorgeous photos too! Hopefully, this will inspire readers to give cross-country skiing in Croatia a go!

Riding along Dugi Otok

Croatia: cycling heaven, and also cycling hell

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John Clayton is a UK citizen who has been living in the coastal city of Rijeka for 15 years. Following on from his previous post about The Sound of Rijeka, John talks here about his experiences of cycling in Croatia – and what’s great for cyclists in the country, what’s not so good and what’s awful!

Cycling in Croatia can be truly incredible – discover picture-perfect beaches, ride the dramatic mountain with endless forest on one side with stunning views over the islands on the other. In so many ways it’s idyllic, but, and it’s a big BUT, the driving is highly bicycle unfriendly and cycling infrastructure is totally missing.

I find it hard to write about cycling in Croatia. There is so much great to say, yet the negatives are very real. Having said that I cycle most weekends, I feel highly privileged to have such incredible places to cycle on my doorstep and I am still here to tell the tale.

A perfect rest stop - cycling in Croatia
A perfect rest stop

Cycling in Croatia: the good

So here we go, let’s start with the good. Of course, the biggest draw is the unbelievably beautiful landscape. With a bicycle, it’s possible to escape the crowded beaches – even in the height of summer – and put up a hammock at an idyllic hidden beach with crystal clear water. Perhaps even better but less well-known is the riding in the mountains. Croatia has wild mountains, particularly Velebit (just north of Zadar). These are truly wild in a way that is increasingly difficult to find in Europe outside of the Nordic countries.

Cycling in Croatia - Velebit
High up in the Velebit mountains

The mountains provide so many excellent cycling options for any style of riding, and almost always you’ll be the only cyclist. This autumn we did a two-day mountain bike trip through Gorski Kotar (the mountains between Rijeka and the Slovenian border) and until we accidentally joined a mountain bike race near Platak we didn’t see a single other cyclist. In fact, in that one hour, we saw more cyclists than we had ever seen in Croatia over the last 15 years. To this day I’ve literally seen more bears than mountain bikers in Croatia (5 vs 3 if you’re interested). By the way, while there is a need to be bear aware in Croatia, drivers are a much, much bigger risk.

Winter riding in Gorski Kotar
Winter riding in Gorski Kotar

Another advantage of cycling in Croatia is that outside of July and August very good value accommodation can be found. One of our favourite weekend rides from Rijeka is to cycle across the island of Krk to then spend a night in the ever-so-cute town of Cres. We usually pay between €35-45 for an apartment. Eating out in winter is also cheaper, and we can prepare our own coffee and breakfast in the morning. In Croatia, we can afford to travel light and to be credit card tourers. In fact it’s often cheaper than camping – more about that in a minute.

Finding unexpected wildlife on the Brijuni Islands
Finding unexpected wildlife on the Brijuni Islands

Cycling in Croatia: the bad…and the ugly

So that was the good, how about the bad and the ugly?

Unfortunately, there is quite a lot. Firstly, the driving. Croatians are not known for their considerate driving, pedestrian crossings here are merely seen as a suggestion, and in no way an obligation. Accordingly, the vast majority of Croatian drivers will overtake cyclists immediately regardless of whether it is appropriate or not. Expect drivers to pass just inches from your left hand, usually holding a mobile phone in one hand and a cigarette in the other. There is not much that can be done about the driving, but we avoid bigger roads where possible and always wear helmets and yellow T-shirts.

The other major issue is the lack of infrastructure. Basically, there isn’t any. Rijeka, my home town, doesn’t have a single official bicycle rack. And forget about bicycle lanes. While a few sections do exist in random places, they are short and not linked together. Istria may be the best area of Croatia for cycle infrastructure but do not expect anything like Italy or Slovenia.

Riding along Dugi Otok
Riding along Dugi Otok

On top of this, very few trains carry bicycles to the coast (inland Slavonia is much better). There is just one a day between Zagreb and Rijeka, and none between Zagreb and Split apart from the overnight train that runs for a few weeks in the summer. In theory, buses carry bicycles, for a fee of around €10. However, it depends on space being available and the mood of the driver. These conditions make it impossible to book in advance so it cannot be relied on to return from a one-way trip along the coast for example. The bus companies even warn that getting a bicycle on a bus in summer is highly unlikely, I could add that Friday and Sunday afternoons/evenings all year round are also best avoided. Designing a circular route is the best option, or use the ferries between Italy and Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik for one-way routes.

The main ferry company in Croatia, Jadrolinija, only allows bicycles on their car ferries, for the same fee as a passenger. But please be aware that the passenger catamarans (listed as “brzi brod”) do not carry bicycles. Every year I see many cyclists in Rijeka being refused boarding as it is far from clear on the official information that bicycles are banned.

There is a reason for this misleading information – while both local and national tourist boards appear to encourage cycling, they clearly assume that every cyclist also has a car. It certainly isn’t necessary to have one (I don’t) but it does mean that information is presented based on this assumption. I also guess that no one working for these organisations has ever ridden a bicycle. Other catamaran companies operating in Dalmatia do carry bicycles – someone at Jadrolinija really doesn’t like cyclists!

Cycling in Croatia

Cycling in Croatia and camping

Similarly, campsites in Croatia are not at all geared up for cyclists, or, ironically, any kind of camping. Motorhomes now dominate the market and campsites have been designed accordingly. Campsites are usually floodlit at night, have rock-hard ground, and are shockingly expensive. They also charge a registration fee of about €2 per person for the first night – effectively a tax on cyclists and hikers, in contrast to Slovenian campsites that give discounts to cyclists.

Cycling into Nin, near Zadar
Cycling into Nin, near Zadar

There is a much better option to official campsites. A free, quiet, dark at night, option. Of course, I mean wild camping on one of the many, many isolated beaches in Croatia. The only problem is that wild camping is illegal in Croatia. The choice is yours. However, it might be worth bearing in mind that almost everything is illegal in Croatia and you will probably be breaking the law approximately every 5 minutes.

I just recently discovered that when there is no bicycle lane at a pedestrian crossing, cyclists are obliged to dismount and push their bikes across. As there is never, ever a bicycle lane I have already broken this law literally thousands of times. Just to make things worse, when cycling I do stop at crossings for pedestrians yet the cars behind me keep going, and somehow I am the one breaking the law.

Wearing yellow when cycling in Croatia
Wearing yellow

To cycle or not to cycle…

I think I forgot to mention that Croatia is hilly, always! This is not a complaint, just an observation. Croatia would not be anywhere near as beautiful if it were flat. Make sure you have low climbing gears. My other advice, wear a helmet and bright clothing, avoid busier roads if at all possible, and don’t plan on using public transport on the coast.

So yes, Croatia may be way behind almost every other European country when it comes to cycling but, there is amazing cycling to be discovered here. I am still exploring, always finding new and amazing places. It can be really, really beautiful. It is by far my most common weekend activity so take my concerns as forewarning and come cycling in Croatia.

Thank you so much for your very interesting piece, John. Some truly excellent advice for anyone interested in cycling in Croatia.

Ziplines in Croatia

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If you’re the sort of traveller who seeks adventure at every turn and definitely does not want to have your feet firmly planted on the floor – some of the time – ziplines are absolutely the thing for you. These days, Croatia is home to a number of amazing zip lines in some top locations, all with truly spectacular views of surrounding nature, famous sights, islands and more, They’re absolutely the sort of thing to give your holiday a thrill. Here’s our guide to the best ziplines in Croatia.

Generally, the ziplines in Croatia listed below operate daily through the high summer season (and just before/after this period), and by appointment at other times of year.

If they’re not your cup of tea or perhaps you have a fear of heights – you’re in good company, I do too! – let’s keep our feet on terra firma. Why not stick to the Top Sights in Croatia or the Best Beaches in Croatia?

On the other hand, ziplining may be just the tip of the…ahem, mountain?…for you, in which case take a look at our Activities in Croatia page for all sorts of fun adventures for you to enjoy.

Zipline Croatia, Omis

Zipline Croatia is one of the oldest established and top rated ziplines in the country, located just outside the fun town of Omis. (The company does have an office in central Omis, however, where you can book and to meet your instructors.) This high wire will see you zipping high above the beautiful Cetina River canyon, with the gorgeous natural surroundings just the thing for your high adventure activity.

Zipline Croatia is in fact a series of eight ziplines totalling 2,100 metres in length and at a height of 150 metres above the ground. The longest zipline of the eight is 700 metres in length, and the whole activity takes around two and a half hours.

Ziplines in Croatia - Zipline Croatia
Credit: Zipline Croatia

This zipline is open to participants aged 7 and above, meaning that even kids can enjoy the experience! The instructors will be able to verify whether the child in question can descend by themselves, or will need to ride the zipline in tandem with an adult.

A “flight” on this zipline costs €65 per person.

Panorama Zipline, Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is obviously one of the most stunning destinations in Croatia, and you only have to glimpse the city’s Old Town to know why. What about viewing the Old Town from high above whilst zipping along…on a zipline?! Panorama Zipline operates their experience on Mount Srd above Dubrovnik, which obviously provides the required height for this sort of adventure as well as stunning scenes of the historic part of the city and out across the Adriatic Sea to the nearby islands and beyond.

Ziplines in Croatia - Panorama Zipline Dubrovnik
Credit: Panorama Zipline, Dubrovnik

The Panorama Zipline experience offers two ziplines, 500 metres in total length, which all thrill-seekers are able to go down twice. You’ll reach speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour! The whole adventure takes three hours, which includes short transfers to the main part of the city. The whole experience costs €50 per person.

Slightly better than viewing Dubrovnik from a zipline is viewing Dubrovnik from a zipline…whilst the sun is setting! Panorama Zipline does also offer sunset tours, which are priced at €55.

Zipline Du The Wire, Dubrovnik

Another option for Dubrovnik – and the longest coastal zipline in the country, stretching out over 900 metres! The Wire zipline is one of those where to take flight in “Superman” position – essentially, exactly how Superman takes to the skies. At an altitude of 175 metres, you’ll reach speeds of up to 100 kilometres an hour…that’s pretty speedy indeed. But not so fast that you won’t be able to admire the stunning Adriatic Sea and the island of Lokrum.

This zipline is located around 4km from Dubrovnik, but it’s easy to get to as local bus number 10 goes direct from the main bus station (or just above the Old Town) to the zipline.

The Wire is priced at €60 for adults and there are four sessions (two in the morning, two in the afternoon) per day.

Zipline Split

You’re very likely to be travelling through Split on your Croatia travels, so what better place to try out a zipline than in Dalmatia’s largest city? Or close to it, anyway, as Zipline Split is located up on Mount Kozjak above Split, close to the small town of Klis. This position means you have a glorious view out to the Adriatic Sea and the famous Dalmatian islands nearby whilst you’re thundering down the wire.

Covering a total of 2,500 metres of cabling over 6 different zip lines, the whole adventure at this place takes around three hours.

This zipline adventure costs €66 per person if you’re collected from central Split, or €59 if you reach the starting point with your own means of transport. Children aged 10 are allowed (as long as they are over the minimum weight requirement) although will likely need to ride in tandem with an adult up to the age of 17.

Generally, Zipline Split offers two morning departures (at 8.30am and 10.30am) and two afternoon departures (at 3.30pm and 5.30pm)

Zipline Sibenik

Zipline Sibenik is another zipline that’s located above a river canyon with stunning nature, this time the Cikola canyon – which is about 25 kilometres from the lovely town of Sibenik itself.

This zipline comprises three separate lines of 1,400 metres in total length which are at a height of between 30 metres and 120 metres above ground. You’ll reach speeds of up to 70 kilometres per hour! The total experience takes around 1 hour, although you will need to add transfers (organised by prior arrangement) on top.

Zipline Sibenik is priced at €50 per person, although you can also take advantage of a special package for 2 adults and 1 child for €135.

If this zipline doesn’t provide enough adrenaline for you, the same company also organises other thrill-inducing activities, such as rock climbing, quad biking and sea kayaking.

Pazi Medo Zipline, Plitvice

I mean, you hear about a zipline in the Plitvice Lakes region and you immediately think, “sign me up”! The Pazi Medo Zipline (which means “beware of the bear”) allows you to experience the beautiful nature of the heavily forested Lika region.

Almost 2,000 metres in length, the Pazi Medo Zipline will see you reach speeds of a rather staggering 120 kilometres per hour, at a height of 80 metres above the ground.

Credit: Pazi Medo Zipline

This zipline costs €39 for adults or €19.50 for children up to the age of 14. You can even rent a GoPro camera for €5 to record your zipline flight yourself! Your footage gets transferred to your own USB stick (you must bring one with you) or your phone. Rock climbing and cycling is also possible here for those of you who want to prolong the high-thrills adventure.

Edison Zipline, island of Krk

For those of you who want to maximize your time on a zipline in Croatia, Edison Zipline on the island of Krk is for you. This one is the longest zipline in the country, with its eight separate lines totalling over 2,000 metres in length.

Located in the interior of the island, between the main towns of Krk Town and Baska, you will be able to enjoy absolutely gorgeous views over the island itself and Baska, and to the smaller island of Prvic which is situated south of Krk.

Ziplines in Croatia - Edison Zipline, island of Krk

The experience is priced at €70 for children up to the age of 12, €75 for adults and €100 per person for private tours. Children up to the age of 12 must operate the zipline in tandem with an adult.

Zipline Pazin, Istria

For a zipline with a difference (one in which you zip over and near a cave and a castle), give this one near Pazin in Istria a try! Zipline Pazin sees you fly high above a natural and unusual gorge on four different lines which have a total of 660 metres in length. Reaching speeds of up to 50 kilometres per hour, the last line is the one in which you can glimpse the famous Pazin Cave.

Credit: Zipline Pazin

With a total flight time of around 50 minutes, this is perhaps one of the shorter zipline experiences available to you in Croatia. However, pre-booking isn’t necessary unless you are planning on trying this out of season or if you’re in a group of ten or more.

Glavani Park, Istria

Near Barban in inland Istria, Glavani Park isn’t just a zipline but a whole adventure park with a number of aerial activities! (You may well have experienced something similar in your home country.) As well as the two ziplines that are 113 metres and 80 metres in length, you have aerial courses of three different levels of difficulty (there is also an easy one just for kids), a high suspension bridge, a 12-metre-high climbing wall, a 20 metre “high jump” (that’s the height you jump off, not the height you achieve!) and a human catapult that flings you distance of 75 metres.

For €63, you will get access to all of the activities in the adventure park for one whole day. Should you wish to experience just one element of Glavani Park, it costs €9 or €7 for children aged 10 and under.

Adrenaline Park Radlovac, Slavonia

Located on the edge of Papuk Nature Park, this is definitely ziplining in truly gorgeous nature. The zipline at Adrenaline Park Radlovac is set over the gorgeous turquoise water of Lake Hercegovac, which you will be whizzing over at speeds of up to 80 km/h. There are in fact two zipline wires to head down, totalling 800 metres in length; the whole experience will take 1 hour and 30 minutes. Costing just €20, children over 140 cm tall are also allowed on this zipline, provided they are accompanied by a parent or guardian who’s over 18 years of age.

When you’re done with ziplining, why not consider hiking and biking the paths in the adrenaline park to get more of your activity fill?

Happy Ziplining!

The Top 10 Tours in Croatia 2024

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Now that you’ve got your holiday all booked up (if you’re still deliberating, why not head over to my Plan Your Perfect Holiday to Croatia 2024 advice page) it’s time to start thinking about what day trips and tours you might like to do on your travels in the country. On this page, I’m going to suggest some of the best tours in Croatia 2024 – including some of the most popular ones, some “must-see” experiences and some that are perhaps…slightly bonkers…but are too good to miss!

For all the tours below, I’ve shown the length of the tour and whether the tours can be booked individually (meaning you join a group and can book as 1, 2 or more people) or whether they need to be booked as a group.

Please note: this post contains affiliate links, which may earn Visit Croatia revenue. All suggested tours are Visit Croatia’s own opinion, however!

The Top 10 Tours in Croatia 2024

1. Enjoy the best sunset in the world in Zadar – in style!

1.5 hours, can be booked individually

Sunsets are a pretty spectacular affair up and down the Croatian coastline, but there’s no better place to watch the setting sun than in Zadar. (Just ask Alfred Hitchcock.) Whilst sitting up on the main seaside promenade with the Sea Organ twinkling gently alongside is a superb free experience, take things to the next level on a Sunset & Night Cruise with Unlimited Sparkling Wine. (They totally had me at “unlimited sparkling wine”.)

The 90-minute small boat tour sets off from Zadar marina and makes the small journey out to sea to really make the most of the glowing sunset as it makes its way behind the local islands. After experiencing this, you’ll then be taken on a brief sightseeing tour of some of the town’s main sights by sea – including the aforementioned Sea Organ. And all the while, you’ll get to sip on sparkling wine!

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2. Zip across a zip line near Split

2.5 – 3 hours, can be booked individually

When did zip lines get so popular? And who invented them?! I’m not the biggest fan of ziplines given a slight fear of heights and “going faster than a human should be going” (I believe that’s the official technical term) but I can totally see how the thrill-seekers amongst you are beside yourselves with the opportunity to try a zip line in a new location.

There are actually a number of zip lines in locations up and down the coast, but I’ve picked out a zip line experience that’s just a short journey from Split.

The Zip Line Adventure (which also provides optional transportation) takes you to a zip line which is situated on Kozjak, a small peak slightly inland from Split. The actual zip line isn’t just one zip line, oh no – it’s six different zip lines, which comprise 2,500 meters in total length and then also include a 90-meter suspension bridge through pine trees.

The tour of course also provides a full safety briefing before participants make their way over to start their zip-lining adventure. You’ll be flying over beautiful Croatian forests with sea and island views in no time.

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3. Enjoy the tranquil island of Cres on a boat trip from Opatija

8 hours, can be booked individually

If you’re holidaying in gorgeous Opatija, you may not necessarily think about doing a boat trip to any of the local islands which is a shame as there are some real beauties in this part of the coast.

This 8-hour Boat Trip to Secluded Beaches on Island Cres tour sees you head off to one of Croatia’s quieter islands – just the kind of place to have hidden beaches. You’ll be able to enjoy three beach stops as well as visiting the charming village of Porozina. The tour offers plenty of time for swimming and snorkelling, and generally just having a relaxing time on lovely Cres!

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4. Views for miles on Biokovo Skywalk via tuktuk (from Makarska)

2.5 hour tour, can be booked individually

One of the more modern sights in Croatia is the Biokovo Skywalk experience on Mount Biokovo. Opened in 2020, this horseshoe-shaped glass platform extends 11m over the cliff face at a height of 1,228m, offering amazing views out across the Adriatic Sea to nearby islands such as Brac and Hvar.

The Biokovo Skywalk isn’t far from Makarska at all but it is up high (of course!) and getting to it is a little tricky if you don’t have your own transportation. That’s where the Skywalk Biokovo Sunset Tour by TukTuk comes in.

You’ll get picked up from your hotel (there are a number of pick-up points along the Makarska Riviera) and then taken to Biokovo Nature Park in a little tuk-tuk. (Not perhaps the most authentic of transportation in Croatia, but the open nature of the vehicle works perfectly to allow you to enjoy the nature all around you and the views!)

Having skipped the entry queue, the two-and-a-half-hour tour gives you time to enjoy parts of Biokovo National Park on a guided tour (with scenic stops for photos) whilst also offering 30 minutes on the Biokovo Skywalk at sunset. Glorious to enjoy at any time of day, sunset will be a wonderful time to experience it. You’ll then be driven back through the Nature Park and returned to your hotel.

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5. Food and wine in Dubrovnik

3 hours, can be booked individually

If you’re in Croatia, you’re going to have to indulge in all sorts of local gastronomic specialities – and where better to do so than if you’re visiting Dubrovnik?

The 3-Hour Food and Wine Tour is a walking guided tour that takes in many of Dubrovnik Old Town’s top sights, whilst also offering the chance for you to sample some little treats at the city’s top restaurants. And treats that come with a wine pairing! The culmination of the tour – as any good tour should – is dessert comprising of a traditional Dubrovnik cake.

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6. Private Boat Tour from Dubrovnik

8 hours, group booking

“Oh la-dee-dah” – you’re probably thinking – “private boat tours are how the other half live, but there’s no way I can afford them!” Well, perhaps you can – providing there’s a big enough group of you. A number of private boat tours can cater to large groups of say 6 to 12 people and when you divide the total cost of the boat tour by 6, 8, 10 or even 12 that ends up being…not too much at all.

Of course, there are a wide variety of private boat tours from ports such as Zadar, Trogir and Split, but take a look at this Full Day Elafiti Islands Private Experience for six people. The tour gives you 8 hours of exploring time on the three main Elafiti islands, Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan allowing you to explore beaches, bays and the islands’ tiny villages. The tour can be customised as per your group’s wants so if you prefer to explore as much as possible you can, or if you want to devote a good chunk of time on a secluded beach, that’s possible too.

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7. Get your kayak on and explore Dugi Otok

11 hours, individual booking available

Once you’ve explored your Croatian destination to the fullest on foot or by transport of some sort, why not do the same…by sea? And not just on some kind of boat tour – why not put the effort into it yourself by powering your own sea vessel? Before I start going too cryptic, I’m referring to sea kayaking.

The island of Dugi Otok near Zadar is one of the lesser-known Croatian islands – often referred to as an “off-the-beaten-track” kind of place – and is ripe for exploring. On the Full-Day Kayaking Tour in Dugi Otok, you’ll be transferred to a bay to start your sea kayaking adventure – an adventure that will lead you to all manner of secret coves, bays, caves and even past soaring cliffs. You’ll then get transferred to the north part of Dugi Otok for lunch and where the second part of your kayaking adventure will commence – one that will take you to a sunken ship which will give you the opportunity to do a spot of snorkelling.

The final bit of the tour offers a spot of fun on Sakarun Beach, one of the best (sandy!) secret beaches in Croatia.

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8. Night-time kayaking from Pula

2 hours, individual booking available

If you’ll be further up the coast but want to indulge in a spot of sea kayaking, why not try this rather inventive trip based in Pula? Because what’s better than just regular sea kayaking? Night-time kayaking. And what’s better than that? Night-time kayaking in a transparent kayak. (Yes, really!) And one that’s equipped with LED lights so you can see into the sea.

This 2-hour Night-time Sea Kayaking in a Transparent Kayak tour sets off from the Verudela resort area of Pula to explore the Adriatic Sea and all that it contains – by which I mean marine life. Should you tire of looking at the little fishes (unlikely) then simply look up and do a spot of star-gazing instead.

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9. Visit the Plitvice Lakes from Split

12 hours, individual booking available

How could I not include visiting the truly amazing Plitvice Lakes in this list of the best tours? Visiting them yourself is relatively straightforward – it’s just an easy public transport bus ride up from cities such as Zadar or Zagreb. But if you’re in Split and want to visit Plitvice, things get a little more complicated because of having to rely on (the not so frequent or well-timed) buses.

The 12-hour Plitvice Lakes National Park Full-Day Tour transportation to and from the Plitvice Lakes as well as a 4.5-hour guided tour inside the National Park. After the tour, you’ll have time to take one of the short boat rides or simply take a breather amongst the beautiful nature.

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10. Hop over the border to Slovenia from Zagreb

11 hours, individual booking available

When you’re in Croatia, there are quite a few chances to hop over to a neighbouring country for a day trip – to Montenegro from Dubrovnik, Bosnia and Herzegovina from Split or Dubrovnik and Italy from Istria, for example. But you may not know that it’s a very short journey up to Slovenia and Ljubljana from Zagreb. And not just Ljubljana but the magical Lake Bled too.

The 11-hour Ljubljana with Funicular, Castle, and Lake Bled tour offers a great chance to take in some of Ljubljana’s best sights, including the impressive Ljubljana Castle. And no visit to Slovenia is complete without enjoying the tranquil Lake Bled, which is also included on the tour.

All transport is included, and you’ll get a guided walking tour of Ljubljana too. Just remember to bring your passport!

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Other Top Tours in Croatia 2024

Narrowing down all the wonderful tours you can do in Croatia to just ten was impossible. So here are a few more tours that are absolutely worthy of a mention: