National parks in Croatia: Krka

All those cascades, streams and waterfalls… When cold water from Krka river touches your legs and when you smell precious and clean air you will find out why this national park is also “air spa”. I would also call it “eye spa” because that green landscape mixed with deep blue colour of the river makes perfect green-blue nature match. Located in Šibenik-Knin County, Krka National park is one more among parks in westernmost Croatian region – Dalmatia also one of 8 national parks in Croatia.

There are many things I can mention here about Krka… But, I will stick to three significant details: nature, history and industry.

Nature

Krka National park is famous for its waterfalls and water cascades. Besides Plitvice lakes my favorite place among river-lake destinations. Skradinski buk is something special. Main character for many videos filmed here. This natural pool is home for more than 15 waterfalls – where you can rest your body and mind listening only to birds and sounds of water while breathing in pure and fresh air. When I mentioned fresh air – Krka region is also very famous for its lavender fields; so if you are lavender fan here you can find it in big concentration. Visiting those little lakes and waterfalls is possible while walking around and maps are available – online and as well in tourist info centers in Šibenik and Skradin. Seven waterfall of the river Krka are: Skradinski buk, Roški slap, Miljacka slap, Rošnjak, Manojlovac slap, Brljan, Bilušića buk. Just like in Paklenica and Northern Velebit parks, here as well you can explore underworld and visit more than caves and pits.

History

Krka National Park is place where history meets nature. One of the most interesting is Visovac island – in the middle of the Visovac lake. On this lake you can visit The Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of Mercy that is 6 centuries old. Not on the island but very close to Krka river main stream The Monastery of the Holy Archangel is situated. This monastery originates from 14th century and it has library where you can see old manuscripts. All around Krka National park you can see ruins of few fortresses.

Industry

First hydro-central plant in Croatia and in Balkans was built at Skradinski buk. It was very end of the 19th century. Nowadays the only thing we can see are only ruins but this place is protected and preserved as a monument.

Additional info: Price list of the tickets you can find on the park’s official webpage. And to get to this park – the easiest way is from Šibenik – by bus or walking if you love long walks.