Family Adventure in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Echoes of the Past in Plitvice's Embrace

Today was a day of delving deeper into the soul of Plitvice Lakes National Park, beyond the postcard-perfect vistas and into the quieter corners where history and nature intertwine. It’s amazing how much more you can appreciate a place when you slow down and really look, listen, and feel. The park continues to surprise and enchant, offering new perspectives with every turn of the trail.

Our day began, as it often does, with the promise of fresh air and the scent of pine. We fueled up at Bistro Hladovina with a hearty breakfast. Greta enjoyed a simple but satisfying pastry, while Marko devoured his usual stack of pancakes with an enthusiasm that only a six-year-old can muster. I opted for a traditional Croatian breakfast, savoring the flavors of home, a comforting reminder of my roots as we prepared for the day's adventures.

First on our itinerary was a visit to Mlinica – the Old Mill. Tucked away in a serene corner of the park near Čatrnja, the mill stands as a testament to a time when the power of water was harnessed to grind grain and sustain communities. As we approached, the gentle murmur of the stream grew into a steady rush, guiding us toward the wooden structure. The scene was like stepping back in time; the mill, with its weathered timbers and moss-covered stones, seemed to whisper stories of bygone days.


Explore Mlinica - Old Mill in Čatrnja, a serene tourist attraction blending history and nature for a memorable escape.

Exploring the Mlinica was a lesson in ingenuity and simplicity. The intricate system of wooden gears and millstones, powered entirely by the flowing water, was a marvel to behold. I tried to explain to Marko how the water turned the wheel, which in turn ground the wheat into flour, but his attention was quickly diverted by a curious frog hopping along the stream bank. Greta, ever the patient teacher, gently guided him back to the task at hand, explaining the process in a way that even a six-year-old could understand. It was a sweet moment, watching my son connect with a piece of history in such a tangible way.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After the mill, we decided to indulge in some local flavors at Sirana Turkalj, Lika Quality. This charming shop was a treasure trove of local cheeses. We sampled a variety of cheeses, each with its own unique character, and purchased a selection to enjoy later. Marko, surprisingly, was quite the connoisseur, declaring one particular cheese to be his favorite. It’s moments like these that make traveling with family so special – discovering new things together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Explore the authentic flavors of Lika at Sirana Turkalj, your gateway to exquisite Croatian dairy products and experiences.

Our next stop was Galovački Buk, a magnificent waterfall cascading down the rocks amidst the Upper Lakes. The hike to the waterfall was invigorating, the trail winding through lush forests and alongside the turquoise waters of the Plitvice Lakes. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the sound of rushing water grew louder with each step, building anticipation for the spectacle that awaited us.


Discover Galovački Buk, a picturesque waterfall in Plitvice Lakes National Park, offering serene beauty and tranquil nature immersion in Croatia.

And what a spectacle it was! Galovački Buk is a sight to behold, a powerful cascade of water plunging into the Gradinsko Lake below. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a mesmerizing play of light and shadow on the cascading water, enhancing the beauty of the scene. I learned that the waterfall used to be much wider, but because of fallen trees and debris, the waterfall has become smaller. We spent a good hour simply admiring the waterfall, soaking in the natural beauty, and capturing photos to preserve the memory. Marko, of course, was fascinated by the sheer force of the water, marveling at the way it crashed against the rocks below. Greta and I just enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere.

Lunch at Pizzeria Vučnica was a welcome break after our hike. We devoured pizzas topped with local ingredients, refueling our bodies and spirits for the afternoon ahead. The restaurant was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to share their experiences and recommendations. It’s always interesting to hear about other people’s adventures and to gather ideas for future explorations.


Savor authentic pizza at Pizzeria Vučnica near Plitvička Jezera National Park—where every slice tells a story of flavor.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Restoran Babić, ready for a hearty dinner. The restaurant exuded a cozy, rustic charm, with wooden beams and stone walls that spoke of tradition and history. We savored traditional Croatian dishes, each bite a burst of flavor and a celebration of local cuisine. I ordered a hearty goulash, Greta enjoyed grilled fish, and Marko, predictably, opted for a plate of ćevapi, small skinless sausages. As we ate, we reflected on the day’s adventures, sharing our favorite moments and reliving the memories we had created.


Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Restoran Babić near Plitvice Lakes National Park - where tradition meets flavor.

Tomorrow marks our last full day in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and we plan to make the most of it. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Yeti Cabin Plitvice Lakes and exploring Mrsinj Grad, a medieval fort with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. We'll also be trying out Restoran Antonio for breakfast, Plitvice Holiday Resort Restaurant ATG for lunch, and Restoran Plitvički Dvori for our final dinner in this beautiful park.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we’ve had here in Plitvice. This park is more than just a collection of lakes and waterfalls; it’s a place where nature and history intertwine, where families can connect and create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a place that reminds me of the beauty and resilience of my homeland, and a place that I will always cherish.

And as we prepare to bid farewell to Plitvice, I am reminded of a quote by the Croatian writer Miroslav Krleža:

Croatia will survive. There have been worse times.

These words resonate deeply with me, a reminder of the strength and spirit of the Croatian people. It is a sentiment that I carry with me as we continue our journey, exploring new horizons and embracing the adventures that lie ahead.