Family Adventure in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Day 2: Chasing Waterfalls and Exploring Caves in Plitvice Lakes

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Plitvice Lakes National Park. After a good night's rest, we were eager to explore more of this natural wonder, and today's itinerary promised a mix of stunning waterfalls, mysterious caves, and, of course, delicious Croatian food. I was especially excited to share these experiences with Greta and Marko, creating memories that I knew we'd cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Poljana Restaurant. Located in the center of the park, near Hotel Bellevue, it was the perfect spot to fuel up before our adventures. The aroma of freshly prepared food, mixed with the sounds of birdsong, created a delightful atmosphere. I opted for some traditional Lika cheese and a strong coffee to kickstart my morning. Marko, of course, went straight for the pancakes, while Greta enjoyed a selection of local pastries. It's amazing how a good breakfast can set the tone for the entire day!


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Poljana Restaurant in Plitvička Jezera National Park amidst stunning natural landscapes.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off to conquer the Great Waterfall (Veliki Slap). As we approached, the sound of the cascading water grew louder, creating a sense of anticipation. And when we finally caught sight of it, it was truly breathtaking. Veliki Slap is the tallest waterfall in Croatia, plummeting an impressive 78 meters. The mist from the falls created a refreshing spray, and the turquoise waters below shimmered in the sunlight. Marko was mesmerized, pointing and exclaiming at the sheer power and beauty of the falls. I made sure to capture plenty of photos, knowing that these images would serve as a lasting reminder of our family adventure.


Witness the breathtaking Veliki Slap, Croatia's tallest waterfall, cascading down into the stunning Lower Lakes of Plitvice National Park.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in conquering mountains, but in simply standing in awe of their grandeur.

After spending some time admiring the Great Waterfall, we decided to explore the mysterious Supljara Cave. The path leading to the cave was accessible from the main boardwalks, and we followed the signs towards Veliki Slap before veering off towards the cave. The walk itself was an adventure, with the trail winding through lush greenery and offering glimpses of the lakes below. As we approached the cave entrance, a sense of intrigue washed over us.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Supljara Cave in Plitvice Lakes National Park, where nature's artistry meets geological wonder.

Supljara Cave is known for its stunning limestone formations, sculpted over centuries by the forces of nature. Inside, we were greeted by a labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites, each telling a story of the earth's ancient history. The cave has three halls connected by a spacious hallway. Although it was a bit dark and damp, Marko was thrilled to be exploring a real cave, his imagination running wild with tales of hidden treasures and mythical creatures. I remember exploring caves like this as a child back in Varaždin, always sparking my curiosity about the natural world. It was wonderful to see Marko experiencing the same sense of wonder.

For lunch, we decided to try the Hungry Bear National Restaurant. It was a bit of a drive from the central park area, about 30 minutes, but I had read great reviews and was intrigued. The restaurant is part of the Big Bear Plitvice Nature Resort and seemed quite new and modern. The drive itself was scenic, taking us through the calming plains of Lika. When we arrived, we were greeted by a friendly staff and a diverse menu. I opted for the almond-crusted local trout, which was absolutely delicious. Greta enjoyed a hearty portion of pork, while Marko devoured a juicy hamburger. The restaurant also had a playground, which kept Marko entertained while we relaxed and enjoyed the picturesque ambience. The Hungry Bear prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and you could definitely taste the difference.


Discover delicious Croatian cuisine at Hungry Bear National Restaurant in Donji Babin Potok, near Plitvice Lakes - a true culinary delight.

After a satisfying lunch, we made our way back to the park for a bit more exploring. We took a leisurely stroll along the boardwalks, soaking in the stunning views and enjoying the fresh air. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and warm temperatures. It's amazing how the colors of the lakes change depending on the sunlight, ranging from turquoise to deep blue. We even took a boat ride across Kozjak Lake, which offered a unique perspective of the park.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Degenija Restaurant. Located near the park, this restaurant is highly regarded for its authentic regional dishes. The atmosphere was family-friendly, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We started with some traditional Lika appetizers, such as sheep milk cheese and Lika potato halves. For the main course, I chose the veal cutlet, while Greta enjoyed the chicken with pasta and truffles. Marko, of course, opted for pizza, which was cooked in a brick oven and tasted amazing. We even had the pleasure of being served by Josip, who was incredibly kind and attentive.


Discover authentic Croatian flavors at Degenija, a top-rated restaurant near Plitvice National Park offering delicious dishes in a beautiful setting.

After dinner, we stopped by Cafe bar Flora for a nightcap. Situated in the central zone of the park, near Kozjak Lake, this cafe bar is a pleasant place to relax. We enjoyed some coffee and savory snacks while soaking in the cozy ambiance. It was the perfect way to end a long and fulfilling day.


Experience the delicious grilled flavors at Café Bar Flora, a charming restaurant in the heart of Plitvička Jezera, perfect for tourists exploring the national park.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty of Plitvice Lakes with my family. From the majestic Great Waterfall to the mysterious Supljara Cave, every moment was filled with wonder and awe. And the delicious Croatian food only added to the experience. As we headed back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel excited about what tomorrow would bring. We are planning to visit the Zipline Pazi Medo and the Korana Canyon walking path. I have heard that the views are spectacular and I am looking forward to another day of adventure with my family.

Before I close out this post, I wanted to share a few thoughts about sustainable travel. As a software engineer specializing in renewable energy solutions, I am passionate about protecting our planet. When we travel, I always try to make eco-friendly choices, such as staying in eco-friendly accommodations, using reusable water bottles, and supporting local businesses. By making small changes, we can all help to minimize our impact on the environment and preserve these natural wonders for future generations. I am glad we chose to bring our eco-friendly water bottles, although I did forget the rain ponchos and portable phone charger.

Until tomorrow!