Krka Falls Show Croatia's Diverse Landscape
What Is It - Travelers to Croatia usually focus on the medieval towns, tranquil islands and interesting history of the Dalmatian coast. When you travel beyond the coast through the mountain range known as the Dinaric Alps, however, there are green pastures and natural wonders to see as well. One such location which can be viewed easily on a half day or full day trip from the coast is the Krka National Park.
“These waterfalls were carved by nature out of travertine limestone that emerged from the rock formations below.”
The watercourse of the Krka River wanders through the hills and valleys of the park for almost 30 miles. Several different boat excursions can be taken on the river with stops at the Visovac Island monastery, the ruins of several medieval Croatian fortresses, and the 100 foot high Roski Slap waterfall. The most popular attraction at Krka are the tiered waterfalls and wading area known as the Skradinski buk. These waterfalls were carved by nature out of travertine limestone that emerged from the rock formations below.
A visit to the site starts in an area of pools and streams which move slowly through a valley that is green with moss and algae. Visitors walk over and around these streams on shaded platforms and view the unusual flora and fauna of the area. After a pleasant hike of 45 minutes, you look down at the cascading waterfalls from the hillside. While active swimming is technically prohibited, hundreds of visitors frolic and sit in the cool water at the base of the waterfalls, or take pictures from several nearby viewing platforms. Local craftsmen also provide demonstrations of traditional trades that flourished along the river such as wheat milling, weaving and horseshoe smithing.
Interesting Facts - Another interesting feature of these waterfalls are the remnants of the Krka Hydropower plant which commenced operation in 1895, just two days after Tesla opened the world's first hydroelectric plant at Niagara Falls. The Croatian city of Sibenik served by the plant had street lights and electric power before most other European cities.
How to Get Here - Many people travel to the falls on tour buses or by private car when vacationing on the coast or stopping in port on a cruise. Depending on your route and the form of transportation, it generally takes 60 to 90 minutes to reach the main parking lot for the falls. A popular alternative during the high season is to stop at the lakeside village of Skradin instead, and then take a boat ride from the town to the falls.
When to Go - While the water flow can be greater during the fall to early spring, the falls are enjoyable to view and wade in during the prime weather months of May to September. There are fewer amenities and transportation options available when visiting offseason as well.