Croatia boasts 8 national parks, which are Paklenica, Plitvička jezera (Plitvice Lakes), Risnjak, Mljet, Kornati, Brijuni, the Krka National Park, and Sjeverni Velebit. Each with its unique beauty and biological diversity. These protected areas of Europe, located in the eastern part of the continent, offer a wide range of natural landscapes, from mountains and forests to islands and coasts, providing a haven for a rich variety of flora and fauna. The Croatian national parks are popular destinations for both conservation and tourism, inviting visitors to explore their extraordinary natural environments.
List of National Parks in Croatia
Paklenica National Park
Paklenica National Park, spanning 95.0 km², is renowned for its rugged karst terrain, deep gorges, and diverse flora and fauna. Adventurers flock here for rock climbing, hiking, and exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Velebit mountain range.
Risnjak National Park
Covering 63.5 km², Risnjak National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts with its dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and the towering peaks of Risnjak Mountain. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Mljet National Park
At 5.4 km², Mljet National Park is a tranquil oasis boasting lush forests, pristine lakes, and historic landmarks. The park encompasses the island of Mljet and offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and exploring ancient monasteries and Roman ruins.
Kornati National Park
Kornati National Park, sprawling over 217 km², is an archipelago of stunning beauty with its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and over 100 uninhabited islands. Visitors can sail, snorkel, and marvel at the unique geology and marine life of this protected area.
Brijuni National Park
Encompassing 33.9 km², Brijuni National Park comprises a cluster of fourteen islands adorned with lush vegetation, archaeological sites, and exotic wildlife. Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins, safari parks, and scenic coastal trails.
Sjeverni Velebit National Park
Sjeverni Velebit National Park, spanning 109.0 km², is a rugged wilderness characterized by dramatic peaks, deep gorges, and diverse ecosystems. Hikers and nature lovers can traverse scenic trails, encounter rare plant species, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Adriatic Sea.
| # | Name | Area | Website in Croatian | Established in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Plitvice Lakes | 296.9 km2 | np-plitvicka-jezera.hr | 1949 |
| 2 | Paklenica | 95.0 km2 | np-paklenica.hr | 1949 |
| 3 | Risnjak | 63.5 km2 | np-risnjak.hr | 1953 |
| 4 | Mljet | 5.4 km2 | np-mljet.hr | 1960 |
| 5 | Kornati | 217 km2 | np-kornati.hr | 1980 |
| 6 | Brijuni | 33.9 km2 | np-brijuni.hr | 1983 |
| 7 | Krka | 109 km2 | np-krka.hr | 1985 |
| 8 | Sjeverni Velebit | 109.0 km2 | np-sjeverni-velebit.hr | 1999 |
Protected Areas of Croatia
In Croatia, protected areas are a crucial part of its natural wealth. With 444 protected areas covering 9% of the country, 8 national parks stand out, 2 strict reserves, and 11 nature parks, as well as a large number of special Croatian reserves. The iconic Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, leads the list. Managed by both the central government and the counties, these areas are vital for conservation and biodiversity.
The creation of the National Ecological Network in 2005 demonstrates Croatia’s commitment to environmental protection and its integration into the Natura 2000 network. The national parks cover an area of 994 km², including a marine extension, and each is managed by a specific institution under government supervision and funding.
Nature Parks
| # | Name | Established in |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Kopački rit | 1967 |
| 2. | Papuk | 1999 |
| 3. | Lonjsko polje | 1990 |
| 4. | Medvednica | 1981 |
| 5. | Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje | 1999 |
| 6. | Učka | 1999 |
| 7. | Velebit | 1981 |
| 8. | Vrana Lake | 1999 |
| 9. | Telašćica | 1988 |
| 10. | Biokovo | 1981 |
| 11. | Lastovo Archipelago | 2006 |
| 12. | Dinara | 2021 |
Strict Reserves
Bijele and Samarske stijene, along with Hajdučki and Rožanski kukovi, stand out among the 2 strict reserves in Croatia, protecting unique and biodiverse environments that are crucial for nature conservation in the country.
- Bijele and Samarske stijene.
- Hajdučki and Rožanski kukovi.
Special Reserves
Croatia is home to a total of 80 special reserves, including a wide variety of protected ecosystems and habitats, from forest vegetation reserves to marine, ornithological, botanical, etc:
- 37 forest vegetation reserves.
- 22 ornithological reserves.
- 9 botanical reserves.
- 2 ichthyological reserves.
- 2 ichthyological and ornithological reserves.
- 2 zoological reserves.
- 2 marine reserves.
- 1 geological and paleontological reserve.
- 1 paleontological reserve.
- 1geographic and botanical reserve.
- 1 botanical and zoological reserve.