Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Paklenica National Park is located in the immediate hinterland of the central part of the Croatian coast, between the Adriatic Sea and the highest peak of Velebit Mountain, Vaganski Vrh. It showcases the stark beauty of the karst terrain, with its most prominent features being the Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica canyons. These offer impressive rock faces and are popular among climbers. The park is a biological hotspot, exhibiting a wide variety of flora and fauna. Oak and beech forests are predominant, providing habitats for wildlife such as wild boar, deer, and, rarely sighted, the wolf and brown bear. Established in 1949 to protect its natural wealth, it covers an area of roughly 95 square kilometers. Visitors can enjoy ample hiking trails, with the most famous being the one leading to the Manita Peć cave, as well as the mountain lodges offering respite. Its diverse ecosystems combined with a rich array of recreational opportunities make Paklenica a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
