Nature's Masterpiece: Exploring Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Village

‍Rastoke: A village like no other‍

At first glance, Rastoke village looks like it leapt straight from one of the pages of J.R.R Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. A picturesque village nestled in the most beautiful landscape truly seems like something out of a fairy tale. To begin, the word “Rastoke” has many meanings but the main one is a branching of rivers. This small village was first mentioned by name in 1860 but mentions of the region as a whole date back to the 17th century. ‍Rastoke village is also part of the fortified town of Slunj. It's notable for its many mills and a beautiful bridge.

The entire location is surrounded by rivers that truly complete the picture perfect representation of a nature wonderland. Exploring cities is always fun but sometimes you just need to take a break in nature and Rastoke village is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. Still this village is just the start, the real experience lies at the nearby National Park.

‍Plitvice Lakes: You have to see it to believe it

‍The unity and harmony of the 16 lakes here and their rare natural and cultural value are not only famous throughout Croatia, but also worldwide; earning this remarkable national park a coveted place on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites. Walking through these ancient woodlands is an experience like no other. The first part of the park is the Upper Lakes, a system of 12 lakes separated by travertine barriers.

Wherever you are in Plitvice, it is easy to see why its travertine marble formations are such an extraordinary natural phenomenon. The barriers, sills, and other forms created in these lakes, the karst rivers, and streams are still an ongoing process that shapes the wonderful landscapes. It is these same travertine formations that have and are still creating the numerous magnificent waterfalls here. The second part of the park are the Lower Lakes, four magnificent lakes all cascading on top of another forming beautiful waterfalls.

But seeing is believing, and Plitvice Lakes is something you should definitely see up close. Your fairytale experience in nature can start right away.

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