Croatia is best-known for its stunning Dalmatian coast, with Split being one of the starting points of many trips and a great place for a more relaxed holiday, too. A popular attractions close to the city is Krka National Park.
This natural park boasts an incredible beauty and offers visitors an unforgettable time. Learn more about it and make sure that you include a trip to it in your itinerary when you travel to Croatia.
Natural beauty at its finest
The park covers the middle to lower course of the 73km long Krka River in the Dalmatia region of Croatia. It was officially established in 1985 to protect the unique ecosystem.
Krka National Park is best known for its spectacular waterfalls surrounded by rocks and lush green trees. This is a place where you can relax and enjoy the superb natural surroundings.
The superb Skradiniski buk waterfall.
Skradinski buk
The main attraction is longest waterfall on the Krka River, Skradinski buk. It is one of the most photographed natural wonders not only in the region of Split, but in the whole of Croatia.
The white cascading water falls at great speed and where the river slows down, the water appears to have numerous different shades of blue and green.
You can explore Skradinski buk along its entire length thanks to the paths and bridges, which have been built for the purpose.
History and heritage
When you visit this magical place, you will explore travertine barriers, which have been formed over the course of thousands of years; small islands which lure you with their seclusion; and lakes where the water is calmer and you can see a fish or two or another small inhabitant of the river. It’s refreshing to just watch the water go by and feel the breeze in your face.
People had inhabited the area, which is now Krka National Park long before the tourists started flocking in and now you can explore the way in which they lived as part of your tour of Skradinski buk. There are stone water mills, washing columns and rolling mills dotted along the river. They have been restored in their original form so you will feel as if you are travelling back in time when you visit them.
You should not miss out on the opportunity to learn more about the local culture and folklore in the Skradinski buk Ethno Village, famous for its ethnographic displays. See how flour was made back in the days or how the villages dried peppers in front of their doors.
What else is there to do in the park?
Swimming at the base of Ktka waterfalls.
One thing that makes Krka National Park stand out is that swimming is allowed in some areas where the water is shallower and calmer. It’s impossible to resist the temptation of having a dip in the cool water on a hot summer’s day. It’s refreshing and also liberating.
What to do after a long walk and a swim in the river? Yes, you guessed that right – it’s time to grab a bite to eat. You can have a wonderful meal in a restaurant with an authentic setting, dishes and music. Pick from a variety of fish, red meat and vegetarian options. It’s always a good idea to order local red wine along with the fine food.
I visited the beautiful Krka park on a family holiday.
Organised Krka tour from Split takes no more than a day, but every minute will be well spent, especially if you visit the park when the weather is warm.
