Family Adventure in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Reaching New Heights, Discovering Hidden Depths

As our family adventure in Plitvice Lakes National Park nears its end, I wanted to make sure we experienced everything this region had to offer beyond the famous waterfalls. Today was all about exploring the surrounding landscapes, tasting local flavors, and soaking in the serene atmosphere of this beautiful corner of Croatia. It was a day of contrasts, from challenging hikes to relaxing moments by the river, and it was exactly what we needed to recharge before our final day.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restoran Antonio. We fueled up with some local specialties, preparing ourselves for a morning of hiking. I had read some mixed reviews, but the promise of a traditional Croatian breakfast was too tempting to resist. Fortunately, the food was delicious, and the portions were generous, setting a positive tone for our adventures. Marko was particularly excited about the *fritule*, small Croatian doughnuts, which he devoured with gusto. Greta and I enjoyed some *burek*, a savory pastry filled with cheese and spinach, a perfect start to the day.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off to conquer Mrsinj Grad, a historic fort perched high on a hill. The trail, starting from Korenica, was well-marked, but the ascent was definitely a workout. Marko, surprisingly, took the lead, his little legs pumping with determination. Greta and I followed, enjoying the shade of the birch trees and the sounds of nature all around us.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that challenge us, pushing us beyond our comfort zones to discover hidden beauty and strength within ourselves.

The hike to Mrsinj Grad was described as easy, but I'd say it was more of a moderate challenge, especially with a six-year-old in tow. There were a few points where we needed to help Marko navigate the steeper sections, but he was a trooper, never complaining and always eager to reach the top. The views along the way were stunning, with glimpses of Korenica and the surrounding fields through the trees.

Reaching the ruins of Mrsinj Grad was like stepping back in time. The fort, dating back to the Middle Ages, offered panoramic views of the entire region. We explored the remnants of the stone walls and imagined what life must have been like centuries ago. The fresh air and the sense of history made the climb worthwhile. I shared some of the stories I had read about the fort, about Greeks being chased away by Huns, and about the Frankopan noble family who once owned it. Marko was fascinated, pretending to be a knight defending the fort from invaders.

After descending from Mrsinj Grad, we were ready for a relaxing lunch. We headed to Plitvice Holiday Resort Restaurant ATG, drawn by the promise of Croatian dishes and a family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with tourists, but we managed to find a table on the terrace. The menu was extensive, offering everything from pizza and trout to traditional veal dishes.

We opted for a mix of local and international fare. Marko, predictably, chose pizza, while Greta and I shared a *Plitvice* trout and a portion of *palačinke sa Nutellom*. The trout was perfectly cooked, and the *palačinke* were a sweet treat that we all enjoyed. The service was friendly and efficient, making our lunch a pleasant experience.

With our bellies full, we decided to spend the afternoon unwinding at Yeti Cabin Plitvice Lakes. Although we weren't staying there, I had read about its idyllic location by the river and thought it would be the perfect place to relax and recharge. Fortunately, the owners were kind enough to let us spend a few hours enjoying the surroundings.

The cabin was indeed a hidden gem, nestled in a picturesque village with the constant sound of rushing water creating a soothing ambiance. Marko loved exploring the riverbank, skipping stones and chasing frogs. Greta and I relaxed in a hammock, listening to the sounds of nature and enjoying the peace and quiet. It was a perfect escape from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of the park.

As evening approached, we made our way to Restoran Plitvički Dvori for dinner. This restaurant, located near the park, was recommended for its traditional Croatian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We were not disappointed. The restaurant was charming and heartwarming, with plenty of terrace seating. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the menu offered a variety of delicious dishes.

We started with some *prosciutto* and cheese, followed by a mixed meat plate for two. The portions were generous, and the food was flavorful and satisfying. Marko enjoyed a simple pizza, while Greta and I savored the local specialties. The quiet atmosphere and the delicious food made for a perfect end to our day.

After dinner, as a final treat, we ventured out to Disco klub Rupa. Now, I know what you're thinking: a software engineer and his family at a disco club? But I had read that it was a local hotspot, and I wanted to experience a bit of the Plitvice nightlife. Plus, Marko had been asking to dance all day.

The club was indeed lively, with pulsating beats and a vibrant atmosphere. Marko was initially shy, but after a few minutes, he was dancing along with the locals, his energy infectious. Greta and I enjoyed watching him have fun, sipping on some local drinks and soaking in the atmosphere. It was a fun and unexpected way to end our day.

As we headed back to our accommodation, exhausted but content, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had conquered a historic fort, tasted local flavors, relaxed by the river, and even danced the night away. It was a day of contrasts, but it was also a day of connection, as we explored and experienced the beauty of Plitvice together as a family. Tomorrow is our last day in Plitvice, and we plan to spend it exploring more of the lakes, perhaps taking a boat trip and visiting the fire department and Plitvice Lakes Etno Garden [Citat]. I am looking forward to it already. But tonight, I am grateful for the memories we made today, and for the opportunity to share them with you.

Before I turn in, I wanted to share something I learned today that really resonated with me. It's a quote from an unknown author, but it perfectly captures the spirit of our adventures:

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

And indeed, the view from Mrsinj Grad was breathtaking, not just because of the scenery, but because of the sense of accomplishment we felt after reaching the top. Good night from Plitvice! I am excited about our final day tomorrow.

So tomorrow, we will visit the National park Plitvice lakes fire department and the Boat stop Plitvice Lakes National Park. For breakfast we will go to Restaurant Petar Plitvice Lakes, for lunch to Restoran Kozjak and for dinner to Restaurant Jezero. And before we head back, we will visit Plitvice Lakes Etno Garden to bring home some souvenirs.


Experience authentic Croatian flavors in a cozy, family-friendly setting at Restoran Antonio in Jezerce.


Explore the serene trails of Mrsinj Grad, a hiking paradise in Vrelo Koreničko, Croatia, where nature and history intertwine beautifully.


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Plitvice Holiday Resort Restaurant.


Discover the serene beauty of Plitvice Lakes at Yeti Cabin, your perfect retreat for adventure and relaxation in Croatia's natural wonderland.


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Restoran Plitvički Dvori near the majestic Plitvice Lakes, where tradition meets flavor.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Disco klub Rupa, where dancing and good times come alive in Gornje Taborište.