Paklenica National Park

Paklenica Overview

Paklenica National Park (Nacionalni park Paklenica in Croatian) is a stunning protected area located in Croatia’s northern Dalmatia region, within the Velebit mountain range, the largest in the country.

The park encompasses an area of 37 square miles (95 square kilometers) and is situated near the Adriatic coast, close to the town of Starigrad. Its unique position between the sea and mountains makes it one of Croatia’s most remarkable natural attractions, combining rugged landscapes with rich biodiversity.

The terrain of Paklenica National Park is dominated by dramatic karst formations, including steep canyons, towering cliffs, and hidden caves. The park is best known for its two breathtaking canyons, Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica, which carve deep into the limestone mountains. Velika Paklenica, the larger of the two, features sheer rock walls that rise over 2,600 feet (800 meters) in some areas, making it a haven for rock climbers.

The highest peaks in the park include Vaganski Vrh (5,761 feet or 1,757 meters) and Sveto Brdo (5,636 feet or 1,718 meters), both of which offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The park is also home to several subterranean wonders, including the Manita Peć Cave, which is accessible to visitors and reveals stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Paklenica’s vegetation is equally diverse, with Mediterranean, sub-Mediterranean, and mountain flora coexisting in one area. Dense pine forests, oak groves, and beech woods cover much of the park, interspersed with open meadows and rocky terrain. In spring and summer, wildflowers such as orchids and edelweiss bloom, adding bursts of color to the rugged landscape.

Wildlife in Paklenica is abundant and varied. The park is home to large mammals such as brown bears, wolves, and lynx, which roam its remote areas, though they are rarely spotted by visitors. Chamois and red deer are more commonly seen, along with small mammals like martens and wild boars.

Bird enthusiasts will find Paklenica to be a paradise, as it hosts over 250 species of birds, including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and griffon vultures, which can often be observed soaring above the canyons.

The park is renowned for outdoor activities, particularly rock climbing, with over 400 climbing routes of varying difficulty. Hiking is another popular way to explore the park, with well-maintained trails leading to its peaks, canyons, and scenic viewpoints. Cultural heritage sites such as ancient mills and shepherds’ huts provide glimpses into the traditional lifestyles of the region.

Conservation efforts in Paklenica have successfully preserved its unique ecosystems, though challenges such as habitat loss, climate change, and tourism pressure remain. The park’s management emphasizes sustainable tourism and has implemented measures to protect its fragile environment while enhancing visitor experiences.