Paklenica National Park

Creating an incredible barrier between the sea and mainland Croatia is the Velebit mountain system, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country thanks to its deep gorges, paths running alongside bubbling streams and vegetation that varies depending on the area.

The gorges of Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica cut through the mountain with sheer cliffs more than 400 metres high, while the surface of the park is covered in beautiful vegetation made up of lush forests that thin out as you ascend.

What to do in Paklenica Park

Lovers of outdoor sports will find a true paradise awaiting them: from demanding trekking to simple walks and climbing the vertiginous rock faces.

Hiking

The most popular route is the one from Mala Paklenica to Velika Paklenica: a 10-hour walk inside the gorges, which is challenging due to the need to climb over huge boulders, cross streams, admire high pastures and abandoned villages, and then descend through the forest, past rocks and tunnels that were veritable bunkers in Tito’s time.

Another recommended route for experts is from Starigrad to Planinarski Dom: along the way you can reach the Manita Pec cave, which can only be visited with a guide, the Vidakov Kik peak and the Lugarnica gamekeeper’s hut.

Many experienced hikers prefer to climb up to the summit of Vaganskivrh, from which there is a splendid panorama: a strenuous and very long hike. Others, however, opt for Babin vrh.

Climbing

Within the park, it is possible to climb at all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers, with no less than 72 short and 250 long routes, equipped with bolts and pitons, except for the Psycho Killer, the most demanding.

The most popular routes are Mosoraski, Velebitaski and Klin.

The best season for climbing and trekking is spring, as the summer months make the days torrid. Within the park, there is a mountain rescue station for emergencies that is active in all seasons.