Family Adventure in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice's Embrace: A Day of Awe

Today was nothing short of magical. Plitvice Lakes National Park completely captivated me and my family with its stunning landscapes. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, delightful tastes, and the simple joy of being surrounded by nature’s grandeur. From the moment we stepped into the park, we knew we were in for something special.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bistro Labudovac. Situated near Prošćansko Lake, the highest of the Upper Lakes, it was the perfect spot to fuel up for our adventures. The bistro was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to start their day exploring the park. I enjoyed a traditional Croatian breakfast sandwich, while Greta opted for a lighter yogurt with fresh berries. Marko, of course, went straight for the Nutella-filled pastry. We sat on the terrace, soaking in the morning sun and admiring the deep blue-green color of the lake. It was a great start to what promised to be an unforgettable day. I made sure to grab an extra bottle of water, remembering our oversight with the portable phone charger – I didn’t want to run out of battery halfway through capturing these stunning views!


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Bistro Labudovac, a cozy diner in the heart of Plitvička Jezera, perfect for park visitors seeking local flavors.

After breakfast, we dove headfirst into exploring the Plitvicer Naturreservat. We decided to take the Plitvice Lakes by Boat&Bus tour to see as much of the park as possible. The boat ride offered a unique perspective of the cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. Marko was especially thrilled, pointing out every fish he could spot in the crystal-clear water. Greta and I were equally mesmerized, snapping photos at every turn. The bus ride was equally enjoyable, allowing us to cover more ground and discover hidden corners of the park. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride, showing my family the natural beauty of my homeland.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Plitvicer Naturreservat, Croatia's premier hiking area with stunning waterfalls and diverse wildlife.


Discover Plitvice Lakes from Krk Island: A scenic boat & bus tour to Croatia's natural wonder, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning lakes & waterfalls.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

For lunch, we stopped at Restoran Grand Lakes. The restaurant boasts a charming ambiance and a menu filled with traditional Croatian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by a hearty mushroom risotto. Greta enjoyed a fresh fish dish, while Marko devoured a plate of *ćevapi* (grilled minced meat) with *ajvar* (a roasted red pepper relish). The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. The stunning view of the surrounding lakes and forests only added to the experience. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel before continuing our adventure. I even managed to find a local wine that paired perfectly with our meal, a crisp white that reminded me of summer afternoons in Varaždin.


Discover authentic Croatian cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Restoran Grand Lakes in Plitvička Jezera.

After lunch, we took some time to explore the Market Hladovina. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remember our trip. The market offered a variety of local products, from handmade crafts to traditional foods. Greta found a beautiful hand-painted scarf, while Marko chose a wooden toy shaped like a Plitvice duck. I bought a small bottle of local honey, thinking it would be a perfect reminder of our time here once we returned to Heidelberg. It was also a great opportunity to support the local economy and learn more about the region's culture.


Explore authentic Croatian flavors and local produce at Market Hladovina in Plitvička Jezera, your gateway to unique culinary experiences.

As evening approached, we made our way to Restaurant & Wine Bar Palcich for dinner. This restaurant is known for its top-quality wines from various parts of Croatia. I was excited to sample some local vintages and pair them with traditional Croatian cuisine. We started with a cheese plate featuring local delicacies like cheese in ashes and Pag cheese. For our main courses, Greta chose a fish specialty, while I opted for a meat dish prepared with local herbs. Marko, surprisingly, decided to try the homemade pasta, which he declared was even better than *Oma's*! The sommelier helped us select the perfect wines to complement our meal, and we enjoyed a leisurely dinner, savoring every bite and every sip. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect end to a busy day.


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Restaurant & Wine Bar Palcich in Rakovica—where tradition meets modern dining.

Reflecting on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this incredible place with my family. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more than just a collection of waterfalls and lakes; it’s a living, breathing masterpiece of nature. The beauty of the park is mesmerizing, and the memories we made today will last a lifetime. I'm already looking forward to our adventures tomorrow, which will hopefully include a visit to Vidikovac Tomićevo Pogledalo for a panoramic view and an exploration of the Golubnjača cave. But for now, I'm content to relax and savor the memories of this perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan on exploring Vidikovac Tomićevo Pogledalo and Golubnjača [if the weather permits]. We will have breakfast at Restoran Gurman, lunch at Plitvice lakes Etno garden and dinner at Restoran Antemurale. I’m also hoping to check out Cafe Rapajinka for a drink.

Until then, *laku noć* from Plitvice Lakes!