Paklenica National Park
Climber’s Dream Destination
On Velebit, nature’s inspiration reached new heights. In the southern reaches of the biggest mountain in Croatia, Paklenica National Park inspires awe with its magnificent canyons of Velika and Mala Paklenica and Velebit’s highest peaks. In the pristine nature of Zadar’s hinterland, the rugged charm of the rocks contrasts the gentle greenery, and the unique landscapes promise adventure to all willing to heed the call.
Velika Paklenica
Like a masterful sculptor rushing through the 14-kilometre-long Velika Paklenica Canyon, water has carved a stunning stone masterpiece in the mountain to enchant visitors. Velika Paklenica is a truly impressive backdrop with sheer cliffs several hundred metres high, breathtaking landscapes, and numerous hiking trails, including a very well-maintained and accessible footpath fit for all ages through the park’s most popular section.
As you enter Paklenica NP, don’t miss the “Underground Secrets of Paklenica” Visitor Centre. As you traverse the mystical tunnels of this Cold War-era bunker, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a nail-biting spy thriller. Exploring the veritable city tucked away in the depths of the canyon, you can take part in interactive activities to learn about the natural and cultural wonders of Paklenica NP and Velebit. Kids are in for a special treat with the “Little Climbing Centre”, where they can discover the world of mountain climbing and try out the artificial climbing wall, inviting them to make their first climbing steps.
Mala Paklenica
Like Velika Paklenica’s untamed little sister, the Mala Paklenica Canyon, just 10 metres wide in certain spots, tells a completely different story.
Here, nature’s reign is supreme, and the thick verdant forest, the massive rocks split from the canyon walls, and the charming trails bordered by endemic plants such as sandworts (Arenaria) and Campanula fenestrellata or bellflower seem like a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
Mala Paklenica beckons only the most intrepid mountain enthusiasts, as the sign at its entrance clearly warns.
Paklenica National Park Flora and Fauna
The mesmerising array of plant and animal life in Paklenica NP offers an awe-inspiring spectacle of natural balance. Embark on a journey through the diversity of wildlife with fascinating insights:
- Over 1000 plant species and subspecies, including more than 70 endemics such as sandworts (Arenaria) and Campanula fenestrellata or bellflower.
- 59 mammal species, including large iconic predators like the bear, lynx, and wolf.
- Over 200 bird species, including raptors like the griffon vulture, peregrine falcon, and short-toed eagle.
- More than 100 species of butterflies.
How to Spend Your Time in Paklenica?
Hiking and Mountain Climbing
You can experience all facets of the National Park only on foot, through leisurely strolls and more challenging ascents, with over 150 kilometres of trails treating you to a tapestry of diversity and natural beauty.
Among the highlights is the Velika Paklenica trail, leading to Manita Peć cave – the only cave in the park open to visitors.
Explore the cave formations, each bearing names derived from their captivating shapes like the helmet, organ pipes, and witch.
Paklenica National Park, boasting an impressive 14 peaks soaring above 1700 metres, is a mountaineer’s paradise.
You can conquer the trails to Velebit’s summits with guided tours, with magical photo opportunities awaiting your arrival:
- Vaganski Vrh – When the weather is clear, the mountain’s highest peak reveals a stunning panorama, allowing you to gaze upon Risnjak National Park, a remarkable 150 kilometres in the distance.
- Sveto Brdo – This summit proudly bears the unofficial title of the king of Velebit vistas. Don’t miss the breathtaking view that, in fair weather, stretches all the way to the Apennines.
- Liburnija – Get ready for a dream-like coastal panorama, showcasing the archipelago of the central Adriatic.
If there’s a place that epitomises a climbing paradise, it’s Paklenica National Park.
With roots tracing back to 1938 and boasting nearly 600 climbing routes, Paklenica delivers the ultimate Velebit adrenaline experience.
- Anića Kuk, standing tall at nearly 400 metres, is a mandatory climb for enthusiasts, as Croatia’s most renowned rock face offering routes for all experience levels.
- For seasoned climbers, there are countless events to participate in at Paklenica. The most famous is the International Climbers’ Meeting, held in spring.
Paklenica: Camping and Lodging
Amidst the rugged beauty of Paklenica Canyon, find simple accommodation options at the Paklenica Mountain Lodge and Ivančev Lodge, as well as shelters such as Ivine Vodice, Vlaški Grad, and Struge. Just a few kilometres from the park, the delightful villages of Starigrad-Paklenica and Seline offer a variety of choices for a dreamy retreat, including hotels, private lodgings, and campsites.
In the park’s vicinity, you can also trace the footsteps of Winnetou from the cult-favourite film by visiting the exhibition in Starigrad-Paklenica, where you can immerse yourself in film memorabilia and behind-the-scenes photographs.
An intriguing exhibition titled “Mirila – Resting Places of the Souls” awaits at the Marasović Ethno House near the main entrance to Paklenica National Park. Learn about the exceptional practice of erecting memorial stones, signifying the ultimate resting spots of souls from the Velebit region.
Things To Know Before Visiting Paklenica National Park
A year-round destination, the park invites you to pair your Paklenica adventure with a coastal getaway along the Adriatic.
Springtime offers the chance to indulge in the delightful fragrance of blooming flowers, saturating every nook and cranny of the park. During summer, temperatures rise, so we recommend enjoying the park in the morning or late afternoon when the heat subsides.
Winter unveils enchanting snowy vistas, but be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand for any unexpected changes.
Paklenica National Park: Admissions Tickets and Opening Hours
Paklenica National Park is open year-round, with two entry points for visitors to access its wonders. Please keep in mind that Entrance 1 welcomes visitors throughout the year, while Entrance 2 operates during the warmer seasons.
- Entrance 1 Velika Paklenica – This is the main entrance to the National Park. Visitors can buy tickets at the reception, located approximately 2 km from the parking area and Velika Paklenica Canyon.
- Entrance 2 Mala Paklenica – This is where you enter the untamed part of the park, best suited for experienced mountaineers. It is accessible by car and operates from late April to the end of October.
All information is available on the park’s official website.
How to Reach Paklenica National Park
Nestled in northern Dalmatia, adjacent to Starigrad Paklenica, the location ensures an effortless, stress-free arrival to this Velebit gem.
- By car – For the fastest route from any major Croatian city to Paklenica, take the highway to the Rovanjska exit, then enjoy a brief drive on the regional road.
- By bus – The drive from the Zadar Bus Station to Starigrad Paklenica takes less than an hour.
- By airplane – Zadar Airport is well-connected to major European cities and is located approximately 40 kilometres from the park.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Paklenica National Park and craft your own adventure amidst the beauty of Velebit.
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