Family Adventure in Plitvice Lakes National Park

A Day of Waterfalls and Wonder

Today was a day of exploring the hidden gems around Plitvice, venturing beyond the main park to discover the enchanting village of Rastoke and the serene River Slunjčica Spring. It’s amazing how much natural beauty is concentrated in this region of Croatia. I was eager to delve into the smaller, less-known spots, and share those experiences with my family.


Discover the enchanting village of Rastoke, where cascading waterfalls meet rich cultural heritage in the heart of Croatia.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Park Plitvice. We fueled up with some local pastries and strong coffee, ready to tackle the day's adventures. Marko was especially excited, bouncing in his seat and asking when we would see the waterfalls. Greta and I exchanged smiles, knowing that today would be filled with memorable sights and sounds.

First on our itinerary was Rastoke, often referred to as the Small Lakes of Plitvice. Just a short drive from our accommodation, Rastoke is a charming village where the Slunjčica River flows into the Korana, creating a series of stunning waterfalls and cascades. The village itself is a living museum, with traditional watermills and houses built right alongside the waterfalls.

As we approached Rastoke, the sound of rushing water grew louder, and the first glimpse of the village was like stepping into a fairytale. The architecture is incredible, with buildings constructed from travertine stone and wooden structures blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. We parked the car and wandered into the heart of the village, immediately captivated by the sight of the Slunjčica River cascading over the rocks.

Marko was thrilled, running from one viewpoint to another, pointing out the different waterfalls and exclaiming at the power of the water. Greta, ever the photographer, was busy capturing the picturesque scenes, framing the watermills and houses against the backdrop of the lush greenery. I found myself drawn to the history of the place, imagining the lives of the people who had lived and worked here for centuries.

We strolled along the winding paths and wooden bridges that crisscross the village, admiring the ingenious way the watermills were integrated into the landscape. Many of these mills date back to the 17th century and were used for grinding grain, washing laundry, and other essential tasks. It’s fascinating to see how the power of the water was harnessed in such a sustainable and harmonious way.

The beauty of Rastoke lies in its perfect blend of natural wonders and human ingenuity, where the sound of rushing water is a constant reminder of the power and harmony of nature.

One of the highlights of Rastoke is the Buk Waterfall, the largest and most impressive cascade in the village. The force of the water as it plunges into the river below is truly mesmerizing. We spent some time simply watching the waterfall, feeling the spray on our faces and listening to the thunderous roar.

After exploring Rastoke, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Restaurant Korana, known for its traditional Croatian cuisine. The restaurant had a lovely terrace overlooking the river, and we enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats, fresh salads, and local wine. Marko devoured his plate of ćevapi, while Greta and I savored the flavors of the region. It was the perfect way to relax and refuel after our morning of exploration.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our next destination: the River Slunjčica Spring. This hidden gem is located a short drive from Rastoke and is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and lush surroundings. The Slunjčica River is relatively short, only about 6.5 kilometers long, but it’s a true pearl of the Croatian karst landscape.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of River Slunjčica Spring, a serene natural attraction in Slunj, Croatia, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

As we arrived at the River Slunjčica Spring, we were immediately struck by the vibrant colors of the water. The turquoise hue was incredibly inviting, and the surrounding greenery created a serene and peaceful atmosphere. We parked the car and took a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.

Marko, of course, couldn't resist dipping his toes in the water, exclaiming how cold it was. Greta and I enjoyed the scenery, taking photos of the crystal-clear water and the lush vegetation. The River Slunjčica Spring is a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers, with numerous opportunities to capture memorable shots.

We followed a walking trail that runs alongside the river, crossing small bridges and wooden stairs that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for families with children. We saw several other families enjoying the walk, and Marko made a new friend, a little girl who was equally fascinated by the river.

The River Slunjčica is also known for its biodiversity, with various plant and animal species calling it home. I was particularly interested to learn that the river is one of the few places where creeping celery can be found, a plant species mentioned in the European Habitats Directive. It’s amazing to think that such a small river can be so important for the preservation of biodiversity.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to stop for a drink at Pizzeria Vučnica, located near Entrance 2 of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This charming pizzeria is nestled in a picturesque forest and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. We sat on the outdoor terrace, enjoying a cold drink and a delicious pizza made with local ingredients.


Indulge in delicious wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeria Vučnica, the perfect dining spot near Plitvička Jezera's breathtaking natural beauty.

Marko was delighted to find that Pizzeria Vučnica also had a small playground, where he could burn off some energy before we headed back to our accommodation. Greta and I enjoyed the peaceful setting, savoring the last moments of our day of exploration. The pizzeria is known for using Lika Quality ingredients, ensuring that every bite is a true celebration of flavor.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how fortunate we were to experience the beauty and charm of Rastoke and the River Slunjčica Spring. These hidden gems offer a unique perspective on the natural wonders of Croatia and provide a welcome respite from the crowds of Plitvice Lakes National Park. As someone who grew up in Croatia, it fills me with pride to share these special places with my family.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restoran Šapina for dinner. It was a cozy spot, perfect for a relaxed family meal after a long day of exploring. We shared stories from our adventures, laughing about Marko's excitement and Greta's endless photo sessions. It's moments like these that make our family trips so special.


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Restoran Šapina in Korenica—perfectly situated near Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Tomorrow, we're heading back to Plitvice Lakes National Park for another day of hiking and exploring [Day 5 Itinerary]. We plan to take a boat and bus tour to see more of the lakes and waterfalls from different perspectives. Marko is already looking forward to it, and I know it will be another unforgettable day.

Before heading to bed, I managed to sneak in a quick visit to Pizzeria Vučnica for a nightcap. The atmosphere was lively, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the warm summer evening. I savored a glass of Croatian wine, reflecting on the day's adventures and feeling grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. I am hoping that Greta didn't notice I had a nightcap, as she would disapprove of me drinking without her.

“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.” – W.B. Yeats. Today was a testament to that, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.