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National Park Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls

has a diversity of plant and animal species, nature beauties, clear water, many small lakes that all make a connected system which make this national park. There are 16 lakes connected with waterfalls that makes amazing breathtaking scenes. Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls are among 3 the most beautiful waterfalls in the world and is visited by nearly 2 million people every year.

National park Krka river Waterfalls

is second most visited park after Plitvice Lakes. It is filled with waterfalls, vivid river with many fish species. The thing that makes this Park attractive and interesting are animal endemic species you can only see here. Krka National Park is located 20 km from coastal town of Sibenik.

National park Kornati Archipelago

got it status in 1990 which is well earned. Rugged coastline is made of 89 islands and islets. Only ¼ of total surface is land. This park tells a story of hard life on man in s mostly stone area. Even tough in the first appearance it doesn’t seem like it, Kornati are home to many animals and plants. Crystal clear sea gives you the possibility to see diverse specific species of beautiful chorals.
It is impossible to capture the totality of beauty of Croatia’s most beautiful and largest Adriatic bay and nature park, Telašćica. Telašćica as a part of Kornati Archipelago National Park has numerous coves, capes and rocks that make the safest harbor for those who sail. You can try many activities in this Park like diving, fishing, cruising with a boat, riding a bike, or just walking around. If you are lucky enough you can even see the dolphins and spend time with them in the aquatorium of the Park. You can also enjoy in one of the 25 small beaches.

National Park Brijuni islands

on the southwest part of Istria is truly one of the treasures. It is made od 12 small islands on which from ancient times were located many luxurious villas and estates. It is said that Brijuni are true oasis of well synchronized wildlife. Many birdwatchers come here to see over 250 different species of birds. There are many attractions and beauties in the offer of this park. You can take a tourist train ride trough safari-park, see luxurious villa in bay Verige, see some of the exhibitions that are set up there and maybe take a trip to archaeological museum.

National Park Mljet Island

is first marine protected area in Croatia. It is filled with delicate smells of autohtonic herbs, rich colours, untouched natural beauties and endemic species. National park takes only third of the island. Historical legacy of island Mljet goes deep in the past filling small settlements with many archaeological findings. You can visit this park in any time of the year and still be amazed with the beauty and nature, mediterranean air and culture of the whole island. Mljet is located south of Korcula island.

National Park Paklenica

is a small park with only 95 kilometers square but is filled with scabs, pits, caves and other karst phenomenons that are made cause of the structure based on dolomite and limestone. This is where the highest peaks of the Velebit Mountain are located. Paklenica itself is a challenging rock-climbing treat. You can meet Paklenica by hiking trough many paths that lead to highest peaks of this mountain. Season of hiking begins in early spring and ends in late fall. Paklenica National Park is located on the south part of Velebit Mountain, on the sea side following the canyon of Zrmanja river.

National park Velebit Mountain

even though is astonishing in its biodiversity, when you ask people about the mountain, everyone will tell you about the experience they had when they were there. It is beyond dispute that one part of that experience has to do with the beauty of unity and interaction of the plant and animal world, mountain peaks, the underground, cultural and historical heritage. But the other part is the spirit and the tranquility you will have on your tour trough Velebit. Velebit is second highest mountain in Croatia, located on the coast of the North Dalmatia, above Zadar town and stretching north up to the Kvarner. This area is known for extremely strong north wind called bura.

On December 23, 2003, the highest wind gust in Croatia was measured on the A1 motorway, between the Sveti Rok and Maslenica tunnels, at the Božići viaduct. At that time, one of the few wind speed measuring instruments that managed to withstand wind gusts at all, recorded a speed of 307 km / h, which is the highest ever measured wind speed in Croatia.

But this happens rarely, and in the cold winter time. In summer time, there is no bura wind.

Nature Park Biokovo Mountain

People say that it is a mountain with the roots in the sea and a peak in the lightnings. From the highest peak you can enjoy the view on one side to Croatian islands, open sea and even on the sunny day see the Italy. The other side you gives you the view on the continental Croatia, other mountains and villages. Inside the Park you can visit the botanical garden Koština in which trough couple of tracks you can see many plant species and breathe in clear mountain air.

Nature Park Vransko Lake

located between Zadar and Šibenik is a lake with mediterranean climate. This lake is incredible merger of water and land, animal and plant life. It is covered with colorful flowers around which lovely butterflies and birds fly. It is a true heaven for birdwatchers because this lake is natural habitat for many species of birds. You can also enjoy 40 kilometers long bicycle path trough which you can enjoy aromatic smells of healing herbs and admire the scenery.

Nature Park Lastovo archipelago

gives you the crystal clear sea, landscape beauty, many coves, hidden beaches and lush forests trough 44 islands. Under the sea is home to many crabs, sponges and mollusks which makes a great spot for diving. While walking around also take a look on the chimneys on homes, you wont see two that are the same. The reason for that is that in the past they were the symbol of power and richness of the families so everyone wanted to be unique. All lovers of the sea, sun, beaches, magnificent wildlife, walking, boating, diving and quality food and wine visit Lastovo archipelago and allow yourself to enjoy life.

National Parks of Croatia are truly world wonders worth seeing. Look for villa to rent in location of national parks.

We prepared more info about National Parks of Croatia, enjoy and welcome!

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1. Easy to reach

Some Greek islands take four hours to reach by plane. The Canaries? More like four-and-a-half. Hvar, Split, Dubrovnik and Pula are all just two-and-a-half hours away or less.

2. Hot weather

Croatia is one of Europe’s sunniest spots. Visitors should expect 12 hours of sunshine a day in May and June, on average, and 13 in July and August. Even in October, the weather remains pleasant, with Dubrovnik offering 11 hours of sunlight and daily averages of 19C.

3. Good value

Even in popular tourist destinations you can still find good value. A beer at all but the trendiest bars in Hvar will only cost the equivalent of a couple of quid; dinner for two at a good restaurant in Split (including wine) will set you back less than 60 EUR. Good value hotels are ubiquitous, as are cheap holiday apartments.

4. Game of Thrones

There is surely some correlation between Croatia’s growing popularity and its starring role in the HBO series Game of Thrones. Among the attractions to have featured are Dubrovnik, whose city walls and forts became King’s Landing; beautiful Trsteno Arboretum on the outskirts of the city, which becomes the Red Keep’s gardens; the Fortress of Klis, which is used for exterior shots of Meereen; and St Dominic Monastery in Trogir, which appears as the city of Qarth.

5. Roman ruins

The remains of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, another Game of Thrones filming location, is now the buzzing heart of the city. Among the ancient columns, temples, walls and underground cellars that once made up the Roman emperor’s retirement home, you’ll find dozens of hidden bars, restaurants and shops.

6. Pula amphiteatre

The port city of Pula in Istria is noted for its first-century Roman amphitheatre, one of the best preserved in the world. Time your visit to the city to coincide with its annual film festival (held in July, next week, as it stands), which features screenings inside the ruin, or look out for one of its regular musical concerts.

7. Magnificent beaches

Croatia is all about picturesque pebbled beaches, lapped by crystal clear water. Zlatni Rat is the best known, and adorns just about every travel brochure, so expect crowds, but there are gorgeous hidden spots on the mainland, such as Nugal, just south of Makarska.

8. National parks

Croatia has eight national parks, including the Unesco-listed Plitvice Lakes and Krka, both of which are famous for their stunning lakes and waterfalls.

9. Beautiful mountains

The Biokovo mountain range contains Croatia’s second highest peak – Sveti Jure, at 1762 m – but lies just a few miles from the sea. Rise early and follow the steep zig-zagging trail, from the little village of Makar, just above the beach resort of Makarska, up to the peak of Vosac (1422 m), or, if you’re feeling very energetic, Sveti Jure. It’s a spellbinding route, scattered with wildflowers and butterflies, sweet-smelling pine trees and limestone boulders. Then head back down for a refreshing dip in the sea and a well earned gelato (the ice cream here is as good as you’ll find on the other side of the Adriatic).

10. Museums

The Museum of Broken Relationships, in Zagreb, features seemingly mundane and insignificant objects accompanied by captions that explain their relevance in a failed relationship. It explores the “love, pain, drama, irony, humour and reconciliation” of break-ups, and has proven so popular that a second branch opened in Los Angeles last year.

11. White stone that made the White House

In addition to the photogenic beach of Zlatni Rat, the island of Brac is famous for its glorious white stone, which was used in the construction of Diocletian’s Palace, and, far more recently, The White House in Washington DC.

12. Summer festivals

Croatia hosts numerous open-air cultural festivals during the summer, the best known being the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, staged from mid-July until mid-August and attracting well-known international performers. Tiny Motovun, a hilltop village in Istria, hosts a film festival each year, with parties held within its medieval walls each night. There are also plenty of contemporary music festivals. Some of the biggest are the Love International Festival at Tisno near Zadar, Fresh Island on Zrce beach in Novalja on the island of Pag; the Dimensions Festival and the Outlook Festival, both at Fort Punta Christo near Pula.

13. It’s the birthplace of Marco Polo

Or so claim tourist officials in Korcula, much to the annoyance of their Venetian counterparts. Whatever the truth, Korcula Town is worth visiting anyhow for its impressive medieval old town, good wines and Moreška sword dance performances.

14. One of Europe’s tastiest regions

Croatia has diverse gastronomy. Istria is famous for its wine, olive oil, homemade pasta and truffels. Dalmatia is filled with fresh herbs and fish but also famous prosciutto. Every region of Croatia has so much to offer for true food lovers.

15. Jurassic appeal

Dinosaurs were all over the Istria peninsula in the Cretaceous period (79-145 million years ago) too. You can see footprints on the isle of Veliki Brijun in Brijuni National Park. And you can go on dino-related rides at Dinopark Funtana, near Porec.

Find some interesting facts about Croatia here.

Now that you have read about 15 reasons to book your vacation in Croatia, book your villa in Croatia here.

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Unspoiled, relaxed, beautiful, and safe, Croatia is one of Europe’s loveliest treasures. Everything a discriminating visitor–or homebuyer–is looking for can be found right here: crystal-clear seas, timeless fishing villages and unspoiled beaches, Roman ruins, a pristine lake district, and medieval walled cities. Every twist and turn of the coastline serves up grandstand views of secret coves, little harbors, and calm turquoise waters. Out in the Adriatic Sea, a galaxy of islands–1,185 of them–shimmer like a cache of emeralds. The French legend Jacques Cousteau, esteemed biologist and oceanographer, once described Croatia’s waters as the cleanest and clearest in the world. But Croatia has so much more to offer. So let’s dive in to some facts about living in Croatia:

Safety

PROS: In February of 2020 Croatia was ranked at a „Level One” in safe category by the U.S. State Department which makes it on of the safest countries in the world. It was ranked 28th in the 2019 Global Peace Index, 100 places ahead of the United States (128). Croatia is also a member of EU and NATO. That means they are protected by large multi-national support structures.

CONS: It’s islands are sparsley inhabitet during the non-season periods so it can take some time while the emergency services arrive.

Climate

PROS: The coastal climate of Croatia is exquisite. Total annual sunshine hours range from 2,665 in the south around Dubrovnik to 2,409 in the north around Rovinj. Winter temperatures along the coast rarely drop below freezing and snow is infrequent.

CONS: Some may find Croatian summers too hot and dry, and winter wind bura can be strong, but homes are made of solid rock or concrete and mainly no damage.

Language

PROS: Croatian is the official language. However, a large section of the population speaks English at a high level of proficiency. The Croatian proclivity for English seems to stem from the use of Croatian subtitles for television and films. In many other countries, English is dubbed into the local language.

CONS: Learning Croatian can be challenging. The language is South Slavic in origin and is classified as a “Category III” language by the U.S. State Department. These “hard” languages have large cultural and linguistic differences when compared to English. However, the Croatians are incredibly friendly and patient. They will be very pleased to help you learn the language.

Cost of Living

PROS: Croatia’s cost of living varies dramatically depending on location. It will also fluctuate based on your consumption habits and housing requirements. The good news is that if you shop at local markets, you’ll find incredible deals on delicious food and wine. Depending upon the season, you might even be able to buy seafood right from a fisherman’s boat. Or, if you visit a green market, it’s possible to pick up a bag of fresh figs, tangerines, quince, pomegranates, or kiwi for a fraction of the supermarket price. Also, more discount stores are piling into Croatia after it joined the European Union in 2013. This means increased competition and reduced prices. Long term rent of an apartment is double cheaper than other EU countries. monthly utility bills are double lower than western EU countries. There is no property tax in Croatia! Fresh organic fruits and vegetables you can buy at cheap price directly from producers. Dental services are 100% cheaper than in EU countries. Private health care is cheaper and public health care is higher standard then in EU countries.

CONS: Croatia has an onerous web of taxes and regulations. As a result, it may be difficult to get things done. Be sure to enlist the help of local friends and professionals for larger purchases.

Quality of Life

PROS: Croatia has one of the most enviable lifestyles in the world. The Croatians place considerable value on spending quality time with family and friends. The Croatians relish a good cup of coffee in the Dalmatian sunshine. The waterfront cafes of most coastal towns are regularly filled with socializing kava drinkers. On the weekends, Croatians also fire up an incredible BBQ dish called peka. This regional specialty takes several hours to cook under hot coals.

Croatia is well connected with rest of the Europe, by 8 airports (population of Croatia is less than 4 million people), high quality highways and roads, more than 300 departures and arrivals DAILY from the Croatian islands to the number of ports along the Croatian coast.
High speed internet and mobile net is available in every corner of Croatia, even on distant islands.
Climate is great advantage of Croatia, Mediterranean climate – mild winters with a lots of sunny days and dry warm summers, attract a lots of retirees to buy home on the coast or the islands of Croatia.
Organic food is everyday on the table of average Croatian.
Croatia is so small that every corner is easy accessed within few hours drive through the beautiful landscapes that many European poets described and admired.
Beauty of Croatian pure and well preserved nature with number of protected National Parks, Nature Parks and protected localities, enrich life of everyone who lives here and most of these natural treasures people enjoy without any charges, tickets or restrictions.

CONS: The quality of life in Croatia can be hard to beat, even with bureaucracy obstacles one could face but that’s what Croatian friends are for, to help get through the processes smoothly and quickly.

Medical Care

PROS: If you decide to live in Croatia for longer than three months, you will be required to contribute to the national health insurance system. The system provides universal coverage to the entire population. Croatian health care public system is very efficient and very cheap!

CONS: Croatian healthcare workers often go to other EU countries with higher salaries.

Activities & Recreation

PROS: Croatia’s bountiful sunshine and warm weather make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. With over 1,000 islands, it has a wealth of exciting sailing, snorkeling, and scuba opportunities, river rafting, safari, kite surfing in windy cannals between the islands, paragliding, all kind of sports on the water, and also on the mountains. In same day you can skii on the Croatian mountain and swim in the Croatian sea. The rugged coastal topography of Croatia is perfect for hiking and for wine and olive cultivation. It is also densely packed with fascinating historical sites. Variety of gastronomic experiences is Croatian advantage, here you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, but also continental and oriental, thanks to the influences left from times when these regions were ruled by old Romans, Greeks, Byzant, Venetians…

CONS: Croatia is summer destination therefore many recreational activities that can be enjoyed only in summer time, can not be used during the winter months.

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Find out more about Croatia here.

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We can all agree that 2020 was totally unpredictable year that shook the economy, especially tourism industry. Full of history and its natural wonders, Croatia has been ranked among the 20 most desirable destinations in 2021, according to the survey conducted by The US Virtuoso association of travel agencies that organize luxury travel. It’s also been published that Croatian National Tourist Board and the European Association of Travel Agencies and Tour Operators (ECTAA) have signed an agreement by which Croatia will have the status of “Preferred Destination” in 2021, i.e., the “Selected Destinations” of the umbrella European Association of Travel Agencies and Tour Operators. Also, USA Today, one of the most popular American dailies, published a list of the 100 most desirable travel destinations in 2021, and Croatia sits in the high 11th place. Travel Daily News portal in the article “Below Deck Mediterranean: Most Instagrammable locations” mentioned Croatia, where among the most beautiful locations around the world alongside Santorini, Capri, Cannes and Mallorca, is beautiful Dubrovnik.

The emphasis will go to the safety and proximity of Croatia as a tourist destination, the richness of Croatian tourism, unique heritage, beautiful nature, and diverse gastronomy, highlighting the diversity of travel and tourism products that the country offers. CNTB and ECTAA will work hand in hand to not only promote Croatia as one of the most attractive destinations in Europe but also as one of the safest. Next year, Black Tomato predicts Croatia to be quieter than ever. Devoid of the usual cruise ships and throngs of tourists, Spring 2021 offers a rare chance to have this usually-heaving destination all to oneself, making it a top destination for 2021.

Croatian National Tourist Board (CNTB) is currently implementing a new campaign for Croatian tourism in 2021 across social media, called “Croatia Full of New Beginnings” combined with the label Croatia Wish List 2021, which aims to promote Croatia through new beginnings and positive wishes. Goal is to maintain the visibility and presence of Croatia on its most important emitting markets by presenting more undiscovered locations and proposals for planning a holiday.

In addition to the above, according to Lonely Planet, here are some reasons to visit Croatia in 2021.:

Coastal Croatia

Croatia’s extraordinary island-speckled coastline is indisputably its main attraction. The first thing that strikes you is the remarkable clarity of the water. When it’s set against a dazzling white pebbly beach, the water sparkles with a jewel-like intensity in shades of emerald and sapphire. But Croatia does not offer only sandy and pebble beaches. For those who worship pure nature there are plenty of rocky beaches and secret coves. On top of that, adventurous visitors can enjoy water-based activities like snorkelling, diving, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing.

The Edge of Empires

Precariously poised between the Balkans and central Europe, Croatia sits on a land that has been passed between competing kingdoms, empires and republics for millennia. If there’s an upside to this continual dislocation, it’s in the rich cultural legacy that each has left behind. Venetian palaces snuggle up to Napoleonic forts, Roman columns protrude from early Slavic churches, and Viennese mansions face off with Socialist Realist sculpture. Excellent museums showcase treasures that cover the gamut of European history, from the prehistoric to the post communist, telling a story that is in equal parts fascinating and horrifying.

Beauty on the Inside

Shift your gaze for just a moment from the glittering waters and chances are an almighty mountain will loom into view. The Dinaric Range, which stretches all the way from Italy to Albania, hugs much of the coast. The limestone karst has bequeathed a wonderland of craggy peaks, caverns, river canyons, waterfalls and ridiculously picturesque lakes. Head further inland and things flatten out again into rolling farmland. Active types will find plenty of chances to get among it on the numerous hiking and biking trails, while the more adventurous can have a go at rock climbing, rafting and zip-lining. Croatia counts 8 National Parks and 12 Nature Parks!

Cultural Feast

If you’re lucky enough to cross the tourist/guest barrier and be invited into a local’s home, you’ll soon become acquainted with the refrain ‘Jedi! Jedi! Jedi!’ (Eat! Eat! Eat!). Sharing food and drink plays a big part in the culture here, which speaks both to the nature of Croatian hospitality and to the quality of local produce. Simple, home style cooking is a feature of family-run taverns, but increasingly a new breed of chefs are bringing a more adventurous approach to the table. Meanwhile, Croatian wines and olive oils are making their mark on the world stage, garnering top awards. The diversity of Croatian cuisine provides something satisfying for everyone.

Find Croatia’s top destinations in 2021 here.

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