Pure Paradise in Croatia
If you dream in lush lakefront landscapes, flowing waterfalls and dense woodlands just steps away from waterfront property, then it’s time to get acquainted with the Plitvice Lakes in the temperate European paradise of Croatia. Tucked between the countries of Bosnia and Slovenia, Croatia is a friendly and popular country that enjoys some of the warmest weather in Europe. While it hugs the eastern part of the Adriatic Sea, there’s no denying that Croatia enjoys a uniquely Mediterranean lifestyle that rivals that of Italy and Greece. White-washed villages line the ocean coast, while friendly villagers insist on welcoming international tourists with open arms and plates filled with delicious Croatian foods.
While the ocean coast is a beautiful sight in and of itself, nothing compares to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Plitvice Lakes, which is located right in the heart of Croatia. The Plitvice Lakes first earned their name from an 18th-century priest, who noted that the separate basins created a unique phenomenon that’s unrivalled anywhere else in the world. As each basin filled with water from runoffs on the nearby Dinaric mountain range, the content of the basin then cascaded down to the next, and then the next. This created a series of cascades that can be seen on the ground and in the air; in fact, aerial views have confirmed that the Plitvice Lakes are comprised of sixteen separate lakes.
When you first see the Plitvice Lakes, you’ll immediately notice the dazzling array of blue colors that meet your eye. The colors range from turquoise to azure to green, depending on the minerals that are deposited in the cascading waters. Additionally, the sunlight can also affect the color of the waters, meaning each lake’s color could change at any moment. It’s surely one of the most dazzling lakefront displays in all of Europe – and possibly the world.
Temperatures in the Plitvice Lakes are typical to that of southern Europe; summertime temperatures hover in the mid-70s range, while wintertime temperatures plummet to freezing levels. Despite the cascading waters, most of the lakes freeze over in the December and January months.
If you’re looking to enjoy a lakefront lifestyle within one of the most beautiful areas in southern Europe, then read on to discover more about the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia.
Plitvice Lakes Amenities
Certain areas of the Plitvice Lakes are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, which means that the lush forests and lakes are still preserved for human enjoyment. For avid hikers, this means you can challenge yourself with an invigorating downhill or uphill climb while enjoying the many firs, birches and spruce trees that line the Plitvice Lakes shorelines. For an added touch of Mother Nature at her finest, why not see how many different types of orchids you can spot during your hike? Scientists estimate that there are 55 different species of orchid flowers, although locals believe there are far more to be discovered.
Don’t forget to bring a journal with you – you’ll want to note all of the different fauna you see, including bears, wolves and eagles. While most of the animals in the Plitvice Lakes area are timid of humans, like all wildlife, it’s best to use caution while hiking these forests.
While some areas of the Plitvice Lakes are off-limits to fishers, you can still enjoy plenty of fishing opportunities in nearby pools. Lush species of fish are yours for the taking; however, you’ll need to apply for a fishing license before enjoying fishing in Plitvice Lakes.
If you want to take in as much of the waterfront scenery as possible, hop on the local panoramic train, which will take you around the circumference of the Plitvice Lakes. You can opt to hike one part of the lakes, hop on the train, and be taken to an entirely different part of the Lakes; you can also relax and eat lunch at the Lika House, a popular restaurant for both locals and international tourists alike. With so much to see and do, your lakefront adventures could supply you with several weeks’ worth of activities.
Plitvice Lakes Airports
Plitvice Lakes is a veritable paradise on Earth; however, to keep it that way, not many airports are located near this treasured oasis. The closest airport to the Plitvice Lakes is the Zadar Airport, which is just 130 kilometers (80 miles) away. While more international flights can be found at Zadar Airport, the largest is Zagreb Airport, which is located 140 kilometers (86 miles) away in Croatia’s capital city. Zadar Airport has more flights to larger European cities, where you can catch connecting flights to the United States.
Golf Courses in Plitvice Lakes
While there isn’t an abundance of golf courses in the Plitvice Lakes area, you’ll find a treasure trove of golfing delights in the northern part of Croatia. There are two championship 18-hole golf courses located in the city of Zagred, so you can practice you swing in just an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Plitvice Lakes. Why not make a weekend of it and explore the city scenery, which includes several ancient Roman sites that stand testament to the rise and fall of the world’s greatest empire.
Conclusion
Plitvice Lakes is a romantic paradise hidden away in the rugged Dinaric mountain range in the heart of Croatia – and if you’re looking for beautiful waterfront property, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this small European country. Lakefront living here means that you can take advantage of all that Croatia has to offer; from the friendly locals and delicious cuisine to the pristine natural surroundings, there’s no end to everything you can enjoy in this European gem. Additionally, Croatia is still relatively off of the map, so you can find grand waterfront real estate for sale without paying the inflated prices you’d find in Italy and France.
Explore Escapeartist.com to learn more about lakefront real estate for sale in the heart of the Croatia, and discover a truly wonderful approach to European waterfront living.