The Lower Lakes in Plitvice Lakes National Park, nestled in a limestone canyon, offer visitors breathtaking and spellbinding views. From the stepped terraces of the lakes to the changing colors of the water, these lakes provide a visual feast for the eyes. Depending on the season and time of day, the lakes showcase a range of colors, from blue-green, cyan, and emerald in winter to turquoise and deep forest green in summer. It is a mesmerizing sight that leaves visitors in awe.
The Lower Lakes are not only captivating in their beauty but also serve as a home to a variety of fish. These peaceful creatures can be seen swimming freely in the pristine waters, secure in their sanctuary. Observing them adds a sense of tranquility and connection with nature.
The walking trails that wind alongside the Lower Lakes provide visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature. These paths lead to a deeper appreciation and love for the natural beauty that surrounds them. Whether one chooses to stroll alongside the lakes or explore the upper side of the canyon, the experience is nothing short of captivating.
As the first and largest lake in the Lower Lakes system, Milanovac Lake in Plitvice Lakes National Park is a sight to behold. Flanked by towering cliffs over 20 meters high, it exudes a sense of grandeur. Visitors have the choice of two walking trails – one along the lake and another along the upper side of the canyon. Stone lookouts and viewpoints allow for stunning panoramic views. The Milanovac Waterfall, standing at 10 meters high, adds to the allure of this remarkable lake.
Gustav Janeček, captivated by the beauty of the Plitvice Lakes, founded the Society for the Arrangement and Beautification of Plitvice Lakes in 1893. As the president of this society, he played a pivotal role in establishing walking trails and rest stops, initiating the systematic promotion of the area as a tourist destination. To honor his contributions, a memorial plaque dedicated to Gustav Janeček can be found along the east coast of Milanovac Lake.
Milka Katarina Trnina, a renowned Croatian opera singer famous for her performances in Richard Wagner’s operas, also embraced humanitarian endeavors. In 1897, she donated all the proceeds from her concert at the Croatian National Theatre to the Society for the Beautification of Plitvice Lakes and their Environs. As a tribute to her, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Lower Lakes was named after her – the Milka Trnina Waterfall.
Gavanovac Lake, flowing over the tufa barriers called the Big Cascades and into Kaluđerovac Lake, carries a tale of hidden treasure. According to local legend, a man named Gavan was blessed with a secret treasure that lies at the bottom of the lake. The lookout points and viewpoints in Plitvice Lakes National Park provide visitors with unique and diverse opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds them.
The S-view, or the “View of the S trail,” is one of the most popular viewpoints in the park. From this vantage point, visitors can witness the grandeur of the Big Cascades as water rushes fiercely over the tufa barriers. The wooden S boardwalk, constructed from chestnut wood, offers visitors a unique connection to their surroundings while preserving the ecological balance of the park. However, what truly sets this viewpoint apart is the breathtaking sight of the lakes unfolding before one’s eyes. The pristine waters, with their surreal clarity and captivating colors, leave every visitor speechless.
For those starting their journey from Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes National Park, the first two and last lakes of the entire Plitvice lake system are the Kaluđerovac Lake and Novakovića Brod Lake. These lakes lazily flow into one another, glistening within the Lower Lakes canyon. Kaluđerovac Lake holds an intriguing legend – a hermit once lived in a cave above the lake, using the cave’s resources to sustain himself. Legends tell of the hermit, known as Kaluđer, who treated people and animals using his extensive knowledge of herbs. The lake also boasts the iconic Big Cascades waterfall, capturing the grandeur of the tufa formations. The waters of Kaluđerovac Lake flow into Novakovića Brod Lake, named after the space between the lake and the river Korana. Although it may be smaller in size, Novakovića Brod Lake is no less impressive.
The Big Waterfall is a true gem within the Plitvice Lakes. Created as the Plitvice stream rushes over a cliff, this spectacular waterfall reaches heights of up to 87 meters – making it the tallest waterfall in both the national park and Croatia. Its splendor can be enjoyed year-round, with the wintertime presenting a particularly enchanting sight as the waterfall freezes over, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Another interesting fact is that the river Korana, formed by the convergence of the Big Waterfall and Sastavci Waterfall, is a part of the Black Sea basin. This connection serves as a reminder that the Plitvice Lakes’ waters are not just a local treasure, but a global one, as they eventually flow into all the seas around the world.
Between 1968 and 1990, Plitvice weddings were organized in the park, leaving an indelible mark in the area’s history. The first wedding, held in 1968, took place beneath the mighty Big Waterfall. This unique celebration added a touch of romance to the already enchanting surroundings of the Lower Lakes. With its captivating vistas and rich history, the Lower Lakes are a precious gem among the many treasures of Plitvice Lakes National Park.
No trip to Croatia is complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The Lower Lakes, with their stunning vistas and captivating charm, beckon visitors to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders. Each step taken along the walking trails reveals a new facet of this breathtaking natural treasure. Spend a few hours walking around the Lower Lakes and let the enchantment of Plitvice Lakes National Park leave an everlasting imprint on your soul.
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