Top 11 Nature & National Parks in Croatia

Are you seeking a yacht charter holiday that will allow you to experience nature in its purest form, witness a wide variety of flora & fauna and simply enjoy peace and relaxation? Prepare for an exciting new adventure while visiting some of the Nature and National Parks in Croatia, which many people refer to as “Paradise on Earth”.

In Croatia, you can choose between eleven nature parks and eight national parks, each of which has its own story and offers an experience that is unique and one you will never forget.

It is simply impossible to explain the beauty of each park in words, so we decided to reveal our picks for the top 11 Nature and National parks you can visit while on a yacht charter in Croatia. Continue reading and explore the magical beauties of Croatian natural wonders.

National Park Krka

For yacht charter guests, Krka National Park is a must-see destination, as it offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage. This national park in Croatia can be easily accessed by yacht charter and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.

From appreciating the crystal clear pools and hiking the trails to exploring the historic sites and having a picnic, the park offers something for everyone. To fully enjoy the park, it is recommended to spend at least a full day exploring and have time to enjoy the different activities.

Overall, Krka National Park is a unique and beautiful destination that should not be missed by yacht charter guests visiting Croatia. With its stunning waterfalls, crystal clear pools, and diverse array of flora and fauna, the park offers a unique experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

The Krka estuary is home to a diverse population of marine and freshwater fish, in addition to its abundance of shellfish. It is home to an astonishingly high number of plant species—860, to be precise—among which are some rare and unique endemics, such as the Illyrian iris and the pyramidal bluebell.

The diversity of Krka’s animal life is one of the island’s most alluring and fascinating features. If we take into consideration the fact that even half of the 20 species of fish found in the Krka are only found in that river, this knowledge positions the Krka in the highest categories of natural monuments, and at the same time, it ranks it among the wealthiest rivers in all of Europe.

This amazing national park is also at the top of the list when it comes to ornithological areas because it is home to 221 different species of birds, two lizards that are found nowhere else on earth, and even 18 different species of bats, the majority of which are critically endangered and on the verge of extinction across Europe.

Although it is not part of the Nature and National Parks in Croatia, it is worth mentioning and visiting the small town of Skradin near Krka where you can berth your yacht charter. It is an example of a real Dalmatian town with taverns, excellent local specialities and an excellent marina, which is why many yacht charter guests love Skradin.

It is also interesting that Bill Gates, one of the richest people in the world and the owner of Microsoft, has already visited Skradin and National Park Krka several times with his family which is one more reason we put this beauty on our list of Top 11 national and nature parks in Croatia.

National Park Plitvice Lakes

The Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Republic of Croatia is both the country’s oldest and largest national park and it is a must-visit while chartering a yacht in Croatia. When you berth your yacht in one of the coastal towns, you can reach this most beautiful national park in less than one hour of driving.

Since ancient times, nature enthusiasts have been flocking to this park, which has been recognized as the first National Park in Croatia since it was established in 1949. This park is renowned for its unparalleled splendour and abundance of natural resources.

The Plitvice Lakes received international recognition in 1979 and were profitably inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to the process of formation of travertine barriers and the creation of lakes, which gives this National Park a special value.

The park is known for its stunning series of interconnected waterfalls and lakes, which are surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. The park covers an area of 296 square kilometres and is divided into the Upper and Lower Lakes. The Upper Lakes consist of a series of smaller lakes that flow into each other, while the Lower Lakes are larger and more open.

This national park just thrills a large number of tourists that come from Croatia and other countries all over the world with their natural beauty that has not been altered. Every year, more than 1.5 million people pay a visit to the most well-known national park in our country so it is crucial to visit this beauty while chartering a yacht in Croatia.

One of the main attractions of the park is the boardwalk that winds its way through the lakes, allowing visitors to get up close to the waterfalls and enjoy the views. The park is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including bears, wolves, boars, and rare species of birds.

Moreover, Plitvice lakes are a popular destination for hiking and nature photography. There are several different trails that visitors can take, ranging from easy, flat paths to more challenging, steep hikes. The park is also open year-round, making it a great destination for all seasons.

Overall, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in nature and the outdoors. Its unique combination of waterfalls, lakes, and diverse wildlife makes it one of the most beautiful and unique national parks in the world.

National Park Kornati

On our third place is the National Park Kornati or Kornati archipelago which is a group of 89 islands and islets located in Croatia, in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea.

The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and unique geomorphology and it is a perfect destination for yacht charter guests because if you like it you can decide to spend all your vacation around these magical islands.

National park Kornati is a popular destination for yachting, snorkelling, and diving. The waters around the islands are crystal clear and rich in marine life, making them a popular spot for taking out all of your water toys and enjoying these beautiful surroundings. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, rock climbing and fishing.

The Kornati islands are mostly made of limestone and dolomite, which have been shaped by the forces of nature into cliffs, caves and bays. The park has a rich cultural and historical heritage and the earliest traces of human habitation on the islands date back to the Neolithic period, and many of the islands have ruins of old settlements, churches, and fortresses.

It also has many archaeological sites, including the remains of Illyrian and Roman settlements, and the remains of the medieval fortress.

“The unique shape and landscape beauty of National Park Kornati are one of the main reasons why it is so popular within the yachting community. Often Mentioned as “Nautical Paradise”, Kornati offers Yacht Charter guests the opportunity to sail through 140 islands, islets and reefs.

The famous writer George Bernard Shaw said these words after he visited Kornati Islands: ,,On the last day of creation, God wanted to crown his work and created the Kornati from tears, stars and breath”, which is an understatement in our opinion, because the beauty of Kornati cannot be put in words, you have to experience it.”

National Park Brijuni

Brijuni National Park is a group of 14 small islands located off the coast of Istria in Croatia and it is perfectly situated for yacht charter guests who want to explore the northern part of the Croatian Adriatic sea. This National Park offers an equal amount of excitement & fun for both adults and kids.

While you play golf on one of the largest golf courses in Europe, your kids can explore more than 200 dinosaur footprints scattered around the national park.

Moreover, Brijuni national park is home to a wide variety of plant life, including Mediterranean scrub, pine forests, and wetlands. Wildlife on the islands includes a large population of fallow deer, as well as smaller mammals such as mouflon and wild boar.

The islands are also a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 250 species of birds recorded on the islands. It is interesting that you can enjoy a jet ski safari around this park and also a wildlife safari and take magical photos with zebra or elephant.

Yacht charter guests can also opt for hiking, biking or playing with water toys around the island. Brijuni national park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the wildlife is most active.

Furthermore, yacht charter guests can take in the sights of Mali Brijun, the second-largest island of the Brijuni archipelago. One of the biggest Austro-Hungarian fortifications in the Mediterranean, Fort Brioni Minor, is located right on this island – Mali Brijun. Throughout the summer, this fort serves as the site for a number of cultural celebrations and events.

National park Mljet

National Park Mljet is a hotspot for all yacht charter guests in Croatia. This beautiful and ,, greenest” island in Croatia is ideal for exploring alone, with your family or with friends. Mljet National Park covers most of the island and consists of two saltwater lakes, Big and Small Lake, surrounded by dense forests, steep cliffs, and sandy beaches.

The clear and turquoise waters of the lakes offer a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling, while the surrounding forests are ideal for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.

Another great attraction in the beautiful National Park is the islet of St. Maria. This little piece of heaven on earth is said to be the only island in the world that is located on an island, and its uniqueness lies in the Benedictine monastery that was built in the 12th century and the church of St. Maria.

This monument of exceptional harmony and architectural inspiration changed its form throughout the past under the influence of various artistic styles, until 1809 when, coming under the rule of the French Emperor Napoleon, it ceased to exist as a monastery.

You and your yacht charter party will experience the beauty and diversity of the island from a unique perspective. The national park has several marinas and anchorages, making it easy for yacht charter guests to access its many attractions.

There are also several restaurants and cafes dotted around the island, offering fresh seafood and local delicacies if you opt for having lunch outside of your yacht. Moreover, your yacht can leave you on one side of the island and wait for you on the other side so you will have enough time to explore the whole national park.

The Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park

If you want to swim in the crystal clear sea, enjoy the unique landscape, explore many caves with your water toys, or relax in luxuriant forests and the beauty of the coast and untouched nature, the nature park Lastovo archipelago is the perfect destination for your yacht charter vacation in Croatia.

The best way to experience this magical nature park is by yacht charter, as this allows visitors to explore the islands and their surroundings at their own pace, taking in the breathtaking views and outstanding wildlife along the way. The Lastovo archipelago consists of 46 small islands and islets, each offering a memorable blend of natural beauty and history.

The main island of Lastovo is home to a charming old town, complete with narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone buildings. It is a perfect place for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating escape from the stresses of everyday life.

All our yacht charter guests can tailor their itinerary to suit their interests and preferences and choose the route that can take them to the more remote islands, where they can explore the untamed wilderness and spot some of the rarer species.

There are also many hidden coves and secluded beaches that can only be accessed by yacht, offering the perfect place for a swim or snorkel in the clear waters. Furthermore, this area is ideal for playing with all of your water toys during the day and enjoying the local food such as sardines on a spit, grilled lamb and prosciutto during the night.

Did you know that Lastovo island has the most starry sky in Europe? Charter a yacht in Croatia, dip in your bubbling jacuzzi and start stargazing and trust me you will never see such a beautiful sky. Moreover, in August you will be able to see the metro rain and falling stars will be everywhere around you so do not miss this experience.

 

Nature Park Učka

If you are a mountaineer or recreationist, the ideal place for enjoyment and recreation is the Učka nature park. Thanks to its proximity to the sea, this area is easily reachable while chartering a yacht in Croatia and it has a pleasant climate and diverse flora and fauna.

One of the most striking features of Učka Nature Park is its mountainous terrain, which reaches heights of over 1,400 meters above sea level. The park’s highest peak, Vojak, is a popular destination for hikers and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

You can berth your yacht in Rijeka, Opatija or Mošćenička Draga and you will reach the top of the mountain in half an hour of driving or more if you desire to hike, bike or walk to the top.

In Učka nature park there are several picnic areas and rest areas where you can take a break and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overall, Učka Nature Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether you are looking to explore the park’s stunning mountain landscapes, watch its diverse birdlife, or simply relax and enjoy the calm surroundings, Učka Nature Park has something for each yacht charter guest.

Nature park Vrana’s Lake

Between the two beautiful Croatian cities – Zadar and Šibenik, there is a “lake with a Mediterranean climate” called Vrana’s lake. Since it is one of the untouched and rare natural homes for waterfowl with rich biodiversity and sources of drinking water, it was declared a Nature Park.

Nature park Vrana’s Lake is an amazing combination of water and land and is home to different animals and plants which makes it interesting to yacht charter guests. If you decide to berth your yacht in the nearest coastal town you will be on this magical lake in less than 5 minutes of driving – isn’t it amazing?

As previously mentioned, the climate of this area is Mediterranean which provides perfect temperatures for relaxation and rest. The 40-kilometre-long bike path allows cyclists and walkers to enjoy a pleasant stay and observe the beauty of nature while enjoying the aromatic scents of wild plants.

This fantastic harmony of nature will provide you with peace and a wonderful experience that you will remember for a long time.

National Park Risnjak

One of my favourite national parks for yacht charter guests is national park Risnjak because in April you can swim in the crystal clear Croatian Adriatic Sea and only half an hour driving you can enjoy the snow, skiing, sledging or making a snowman in this amazing mountain.

National Park Risnjak is a protected area in Croatia located in the northwest part of the country. The park covers an area of over 63 square kilometres and is home to a diverse and unique ecosystem, including forests, meadows, and mountains.

Risnjak National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, with its rugged terrain and diverse landscape. Moreover, it is ideal for those who like walking, hiking and cycling. Hiking trails in the National Park Risnjak range from easy to challenging, so yacht charter guests can choose the trail that best suits their level of experience and fitness.

What is also interesting about this National Park is that only 61 inhabitants live in a total of 16 villages and hamlets that administratively fall under the towns of Čabar and Delnice.

The most populated village is Podgrič, which has 20 inhabitants, and some villages are completely abandoned today, and where there are still people, it is mostly elderly people and the numbers are steadily decreasing each year.

Nature Park Telašćica

Telašćica is a nature park located on the eastern coast of the island of Dugi Otok in Croatia. It is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, with cliffs rising from the Adriatic Sea, deep bays, and crystal-clear waters that are ideal for swimming, fishing and exploring the underwater world with your water toys.

The park covers an area of over 17 square kilometres and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including numerous species of birds and marine life, as well as olive groves and pine forests.

What is astonishing about this Nature Park is that you might see dolphins and swim with them. There are only 200 bottlenose dolphins living in the Adriatic, so it’s a miracle that they are still frequent guests of this area.

One of the most notable features of Telašćica is its stunning cliffs. They are up to 238 meters high and offer panoramic views of the sea, islands and the surrounding landscape. The cliffs are also home to several endemic species of plants and animals that can only be found in this area.

Another highlight of Nature Park Telašćica is the salt lake Mir, which is located between the open sea and the bay of Telaščica. It is the largest salt lake in the Adriatic and is surrounded by a unique ecosystem. Visitors can swim in the lake, which has therapeutic properties due to its high salt concentration.

The lake is also a habitat for several species of fish and is an important stopover for migratory birds. It is also believed that this lake have been created as a result of the last ice age and believe me it is one of the most beautiful ones in the world.

For this area you must prepare your drone and photos and videos will amaze each of your friends, family or social media followers. Furthermore, Croatia is the perfect country to get more Instagram followers just while posting these magical wonders.

The park is also home to several villages, including the village of Telašćica, which is located on the western side of the island. The village is known for its traditional architecture and its historic church, which was built in the 16th century. Yacht charter guests can also opt to try local seafood specialities in the restaurants and cafes in this lovely village.

Nature Park Velebit

Last but not least is one of the most interesting karst formations in the world – Nature Park Velebit. This is also the largest Nature Park in Croatia and it is easily reachable while chartering a yacht in Croatia because you can anchor your yacht in the bay Zavratnica and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

This magical beach is equally fascinating from the air and from the shallows and resembles a miniature of the Norwegian fjords. Zavratnica will truly leave you speechless, and yacht charter guests who decided to share their experiences praise the crystal clear sea, calling it “heaven on earth”.

What is fascinating about this area is that you can take out your water toys and explore the wreck “sleeping” about 800 meters from the beach, at a depth of several meters. Take out your snorkelling gear, SeaBobs or diving equipment and enjoy this unique experience in the Nature Park Velebit. This sunken World War II warship will amaze you.

What is interesting about this Nature Park is that everything else except this beach is actually part of the mountains so in one day you can snorkel around your yacht but also climb the mountains or explore the caves.

The Cerovac Caves, one of Croatia’s most well-known and significant speleological objects, are situated in the southern part of the Velebit Nature Park. The complex consists of three caves (Lower, Middle, and Upper), with 4 km of channels total that have been explored. The amount of ancient artefacts found in these caves is astounding.

They are one of the largest cave bear sites in Croatia and contain a significant amount of archaeological remains. Thus, you can still see evidence of bears “grinding” on the rocks here as they moved along the cave walls.