2007 Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park
ROHILAS IN EUROPE-XI
September 27-October 14, 2007

October 9

It was already evening when we pulled into the parking area of Jezero Hotel in the heavily forested Plitvice Lakes National Park. And the air was cool.

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is situated near the country’s border with Bosnia-Herzegovina. A national park, since 1949, it has been a major tourist attraction since the late 19th century. In 1979, it was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

The dining room was crowded with many other tourist groups. After a quick dinner and email check, we went to bed.

October 10

Following breakfast next morning we headed to the Park office for an orientation briefing. Soon we were on our way on the trail down to the valley floor.

Throughout the hike we encountered one breathtaking view after another.

Created by limestone and chalk barriers in the water flowing from mountains over its plateau on its 5-mile course down to Korana River, the Park features 16 colorful lakes,

many pools of water, and

and numerous waterfalls.

About half-way through our hike, we stopped at the Park café for restrooms and refreshments.

There we encountered some other groups, including one group of area students, out on a nature walk.
And then boarded a boat to cross one lake, before resuming our hike on the other side.

Going up and the down the trail and steps in the hilly terrain, and

over many wooden footbridges was not an easy task.

But in spite of her knee pain, Kundan made it all the way out without significant difficulty. Everyone in our group clapped as Kundan and I reached the spot where they were waiting for the shuttle bus to our hotel.

After a brief stop at the hotel, we embarked on the way to our next stop, Karlovac, the scene of a heavy battle between the Croatian and Serbian troops.