National parks in Croatia

Visiting the National and Nature Parks

If you are a lover of nature, you will be pleased to know that you can visit some of Croatia’s national parks on your sailing itinerary. Croatia has 8 protected National Parks and 11 Nature Parks, and it is possible to visit a handful of these on a sailing Croatia itinerary.

Brijuni National Park

The Brijuni National Park consists of 14 islands and islets, with a coastal length of approximately 46 km; the largest island of the National Park is Veliki Brijun – which has a rich historical heritage, grasslands, flora and fauna.

As far back as the Roman times, Brijuni has held an attraction and appeal to the upper echelons of society – how do we know this? Remains from Roman villas and Byzantine fortresses tell us so. This allure continued into modern day; at the end of the 19th Century, thanks to substantial investment, Veli Brijun was transformed into a health resort and summer retreat for the rich and famous. Then in the mid-20th Century, President Tito turned it into his state summer residence. Over the years it has been visited by the likes of John Malkovich, Princess of Monaco Carolina, Prince Shivraj Singh Yuvraj to name a few, and has become a Mecca for superyachts, including Steve Jobs’. But don’t let this stop you; access to this gorgeous region is available to all, just be sure to pay the entrance and take note of the prices and designated bays for mooring.

Driving on Veliki Brijun today (in an electric car), you can see zebras, llamas, elephants, camels, antelopes, sheep… an unusual sight in the Mediterranean thanks to the importing of exotic animals. The underwater world is also teeming with life – dolphins, turtles, fish, crabs, sea sponges… a perfect place for scuba diving. The extensive coastline and islands also feature many gorgeous beaches and lagoons; this adds to the charm and makes Brijuni a truly unique and wonderful sailing destination.

Kornati National Park

The Kornati archipelago is comprised of 140 islands, islets and reefs; while 89 of these make up the protected Kornati National Park. The Kornati is a sailor’s paradise; the wind funnelling through the islands makes for great sailing, while the islands’ indented coast allows for secluded, well-protected anchorages and moorings. Flora and fauna here are thriving; with more than 700 plant species documented, and 60% of all underwater life which inhabits the Adriatic is found here. Ancient ruins and shipwrecks point to a long history and past civilisations, which only adds to the incredible aura and energy this region holds.

While most of the islands are uninhabited, the Kornati archipelago is still a treasure trove for gastronomers, with small local konobas serving fresh fish and local specialities. If you plan on spending time around the Kornati, be sure to do your provisioning, as there are few options for buying supplies around the islands.

Telašćica Nature Park

The Telašćica Nature Park has been declared a protected area since 1980 due to its unique flora, fauna, geological and geomorphological phenomena. Telašćica is located on the south-eastern side of Dugi Otok island, so it falls within a Northern Sailing itinerary. Telašćica has the largest natural port in the Adriatic, making it a great location to drop anchor and explore. Telašćica is famous for ‘Mir’, its saltwater lake which lies in the heart of the Nature Park and is said to have medicinal properties – when you visit the park, be sure to wear your bathers, as swimming is permitted. The incredible cliffs of Dugi Otok are also somewhat of an icon, they rise up 161 metres from sea level, and plunge to depths of 90 metres at the centre of the lake. Standing at the edge of the cliffs, looking out over the Kornati and Adriatic, is one of those moments that leave you in awe at the power, possibility and beauty of nature.

There are ruins on Dugi Otok and the surrounding area which date back centuries, again, giving testimony to the fact that this land has lived many lives. There is also written evidence from the 10th Century which attests to the fact that this region has a centuries’ long history in fishing; so be prepared for some excellent seafood! Be sure to visit Katina island at the entrance to the bay which has gorgeous beaches, and small, lesser-known islands nearby like Lavdara, Žut and Iž – that will give you a real taste of authentic island life.

Krka National Park

Krka was declared a National Park in 1985 due to its rich and varied flora and fauna. Krka has more than 800 documented species of plants, and it contains at least one intact and relatively unaltered eco-system; it is also home to more than 200 species of birds at different periods, which makes it of extreme importance to spring and autumn migrations. For these reasons, Krka is a natural and National treasure, and we haven’t even spoken about the majestic waterfalls yet! The Krka National Park contains numerous walking trails, which wind around the river, showcasing the various eco-systems and waterfalls.

Access to the National Park is from Skradin, where you can dock or anchor and take the riverboat to the entrance of the park. In peak-season, be prepared for queues and crowds. Swimming is allowed in designated areas; so, take your swimwear and you can swim in the pools beneath the cascading waterfalls – an unforgettable experience.

Lastovo Nature Park

Lastovo Nature Park is comprised of 44 islands, islets and reefs. Lastovo was declared a Nature Park in 2006 and is one of the last 10 biodiversity treasures of the Mediterranean Sea. Choosing to sail the Lastovo Nature Park, is opting for nature over nightlife, authenticity over entertainment. With its thick forests, flora and fauna, rugged coastal cliffs, walking trails, sea and land caves, and thriving underwater life, it leaves much to be discovered. The quaint stone villages with their terracotta rooves and famous fumar chimneys, are picture perfect. Strolling is the only pace allowed here as time has slowed down; the island and its locals pride themselves on maintaining harmony with tradition and environment – island life as it once was. A night spent on island Sušac (one of the furthest islands), will also soothe the soul.

And, while it may not have a thriving nightlife like Hvar, Lastovo has many noteworthy traditional and music festivals – so, pay attention to local news so you don’t miss any events while sailing in Croatia. Lastovo is also renowned for its seafood and gastronomy, with dishes such as lobster pasta, tagliatelle with smoked mussels, Lastovo fish stew, local soft cheeses and fresh produce, you won’t be left wanting.

Visiting the Lastovo Nature Park is possible on a Central or Southern Dalmatia sailing itinerary.

Mljet National Park

Mljet lies south of the Pelješac Peninsula, and the National Park encompasses the western part of the island, its two saltwater lakes – Malo Jezero and Veliko Jezero and part of the sea belt. Over 80% of the island is forested, making it one of the greenest islands on the Adriatic. The lakes span 4 km and were originally freshwater lakes but centuries back, Benedictine monks dug channels to create better access for transport and thus allowed sea water to penetrate the lakes. Anchor or moor in Pomena or Polače, then you can visit the National park and lakes by bike, trail or public transport. In the centre of the lake is the Saint Mary (Sveta Marija) 12th Century Benedictine Monastery which can be visited by water-taxi (included in the price of your entrance ticket).

More than this, Mljet has a certain mysticism about it. On the south side of the island, lies Odysseus’ Cave – named after Homer’s hero Odysseus, who, myth says was trapped on the island for 7 years by the nymph Calypso. Whereas, locals will tell you that it was Mljet’s natural beauty which held him captivated for years. Fact or fiction, there is an undeniable energy to the island, a sort of magic that affects everyone who visits. There are also some fantastic seafood restaurants on Mljet but because it is so far-removed, expect the prices to be higher than many other destinations.