Nature in Dalmatia: These are the most beautiful National Parks

One of the main reasons for a holiday in Dalmatia is its breathtaking nature. This region in Croatia has many, often hilly and mountainous, National Parks with a rich diversity of plants, animals, lakes and waterfalls. The various parks in Dalmatia, such as Krka, Kornati, Paklenica and Plitvice Lakes, are among the most beautiful areas and sights in Croatia. Bright Side of Croatia lists them for you!

Our two luxury villas are located in the heart of Dalmatia: between the natural peninsulas of Primošten and Rogoznica, making our holiday homes the ideal starting point for the most extraordinary trips in nature. You will find the beautiful National Parks Krka and Kornati just a stone's throw away. The impressive National Parks Paklenica (Velebit) and Plitvice Lakes are a little further away and worth a visit. Four absolute must-sees!

Krka National Park: Impressive waterfalls, lakes and canyons

Let's start with the nearest nature park: Krka National Park. With an area of 111m2, this versatile area, which can be visited all year round, is certainly not the largest in Croatia, yet it is one of the most beautiful! National Park Krka boasts five entrances, of which Lozovac (main entrance) and Skradin are the best points to start.

Krka is known for its numerous species of flora and fauna, but especially for its phenomenal waterfalls, lakes, rocks and canyons. The sparkling Krka waterfalls, located at the foot of the Dinaric Alps, make the view here truly spectacular. The biggest and most famous waterfall in Krka is Skradinski Buk. Here, the water rushes down 46 metres into a crystal-clear lake surrounded by enchanting greenery.

The National Park derives its name from the river of the same name, which meanders picturesquely through the area. Some 20 species of marine life call Krka home. But the Krka Nature Park truly stands out for the many different bird species: over 200! The same applies to a large number of plant species: nearly 1,000. Ultimate natural beauty guaranteed.

Are you a nature lover and history lover? Then we would like to recommend the monastery founded in the 15th century on Visovack Island. An extraordinary must-visit location in Krka National Park!

Kornati National Park: idyllic archipelago in Dalmatia

Kornati National Park (part of the Kornati archipelago) consists of nearly 100 idyllic islands along the green coastline of Dalmatia. This magnificent National Park - located northwest of our Bright Side villas - can only be approached by boat. Are you interested in a private excursion? We will be happy to advise you. You can, naturally, also explore this natural beauty by private boat!

The 89 unique Kornati Islands that make up the National Park are known for their steep limestone cliffs and rocks. This dream location in Dalmatia is ideal for snorkelling, diving and fishing. However, you will need to purchase a permit first and an entrance ticket to enter this National Park. Your local guide will be happy to tell you where you can buy one.

National Park Paklenica (Velebit): beautiful mountains and Europe's Big 3

Another beautiful spot in Dalmatia: National Park Paklenica along the southern part of the Velebit mountain range. A rocky and gorge-like area for adventurers where you might just encounter the Big 3: bears, wolves and lynxes.

From our luxurious villas, you drive to Paklenica in about 2.5 hours by car. It takes some time, but what awaits you is definitely worth the distance. Especially if you like walking, hiking, climbing and adventurous routes, this is the place to be in Croatia. The National Park includes roughly 200 kilometres of trails for both hikers and climbers. Would you like to experience a suitable excursion at Paklenica? We will be happy to advise you!

Plitvice Lakes National Park: best-known park in Croatia with beautiful waterfalls

We would like to finish off with the most famous nature park in Croatia: the Plitvice Lakes! This National Park is about a 3-hour drive from the Bright Side villas. The same applies here: it is an absolute must for nature and hiking lovers who love spectacular views.

The 16 lakes and connecting waterfalls in Plitvice National Park are a feast for the eyes. The nature reserve has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List for good reasons. You will also find a great diversity of flora and fauna here, including the brown bear.

Would you like to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park? You can do so all year round. We are happy to advise you on ticket sales points and the location of the two car parks.

Your local guide for the most beautiful nature trips in Dalmatia!

Inspired by the fascinating nature in Croatia? The above-mentioned National Parks are just the tip of the nature veil in Dalmatia. The Bright Side of Croatia property manager will be happy to advise you on the most beautiful nature trips in our region.

Discover the best dishes and restaurants, the most extraordinary boat trips and marinas, the most beautiful beaches, the most amazing cultural and historical day trips and the most amazing islands in Dalmatia! Or book your luxury holiday in Dalmatia in our luxury villas!