The Plitvice region is an ideal destination for nature lovers and water activity enthusiasts. Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park from a different perspective with a scenic boat ride and rowing on Lake Kozjak, experience the adrenaline of kayaking on the Mrežnica River and rafting on the Una River, or cool off with a swim in Rastoke. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy angling on the Gacka, Korana, or Mrežnica rivers. For the perfect base to relax and explore all the beauty of the Plitvice region, Lyra Hotel Plitvice is here for you.
Blaž Urh
Long sunny days, lush greenery, birdsong, and blooming nature can only mean one thing – summer is approaching! As temperatures rise across Croatia, many travelers start looking for refreshing escapes surrounded by nature, and the Plitvice region is the perfect choice.
With its crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and dense forests, this part of Lika offers countless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. From peaceful boat rides and rowing on the Plitvice Lakes to kayaking, rafting, swimming, and fishing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the water while exploring one of Croatia’s most beautiful regions.
Planning a holiday in Lika? Discover the best water activities around Plitvice and experience nature from a completely different perspective.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Sightseeing, Boat Rides and Rowing
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a breathtaking destination popular in every season. Home to some of Europe’s most spectacular waterfalls, the park invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature and admire its incredible scenery. But did you know you can also enjoy water activities at Plitvice?
Although swimming is strictly prohibited, boating on the lakes is not. In fact, it is one of the most unique ways to experience this natural wonder.
As part of your visit, you can take a panoramic boat ride across Kozjak, the park’s largest lake. The scenic electric boat ride lasts around 20 minutes and offers a completely different perspective of the Plitvice Lakes.
In addition to panoramic boat tours, rowing is also allowed at Plitvice. Traditional wooden rowing boats can be rented during the warmer months at the P1 boat dock, every day of the week.
Visitors can enjoy rowing on Lake Kozjak while surrounded by pristine nature and peaceful scenery.
Kayaking and Rafting
Croatia is a country rich in streams, rivers, and lakes, and the rivers around Plitvice are among the best places to experience a dose of adrenaline.
Kayaking on the Mrežnica River
Kayaking on the Mrežnica River is an unforgettable experience. Mrežnica is one of Croatia’s most beautiful karst rivers, famous for its emerald-green color and countless waterfalls. It springs near Slunj and flows into the Korana River near Karlovac after 64 kilometers.
The river features an impressive 93 travertine barriers and waterfalls, some reaching heights of over six meters.
In the past, numerous watermills operated along the river, and today only a few remains stand as reminders of the rich history of life by the water.
As you kayak down this stunning river, you will enjoy picturesque landscapes and crystal-clear water that creates a calming atmosphere along its gentler stretches.
Rafting on the Una River
Give in to the rush of white-water rapids and let the adrenaline take over. Rafting on the Una River is an unmissable experience when visiting the Plitvice region.
One of the world’s deepest freshwater springs cuts through a spectacular canyon filled with breathtaking travertine formations, while dense deciduous forests lining the river create an unforgettable natural setting.
Every bend of the Una River brings a new thrill. During the rafting adventure, you will discover hidden corners of the canyon, jump into refreshing water, and experience the river from a completely new perspective. With experienced guides and professional equipment, rafting on the Una is the perfect adventure for both beginners and adrenaline seekers.
Swimming in Rastoke
Rastoke is proof that river swimming can be both fun and pleasantly warm. The Korana River is a true paradise for swimmers, with water temperatures ranging from 24 to an incredible 28 degrees Celsius during the summer months, making it ideal even for those who usually prefer warmer water.
Thanks to its shallow water and small natural pools surrounded by cascades, the swimming areas in Rastoke are perfect for families and young children. In addition to swimming, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including diving platforms, beach volleyball, badminton, and more.
Looking for something cooler with an extra dose of adrenaline? You can also swim in the refreshing waters of the Mrežnica River.
Fishing in the Rivers Around Plitvice
Fishing is another enjoyable water activity you can experience near Plitvice.
Although fishing is prohibited within Plitvice Lakes National Park itself, many nearby rivers and lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities.
Fishing on the Gacka River
Gacka River is one of Croatia’s most famous rivers for sport fishing, especially among trout anglers. Thanks to its clean, cold, oxygen-rich water, it provides ideal conditions for salmonid species.
The river is particularly renowned for its brown trout, which grow significantly faster here than in many other rivers due to the abundance of natural food. Trout weighing over 4–5 kilograms are not uncommon.
The calm flow of the river and its untouched natural surroundings make fishing on the Gacka a truly special experience for every angler.
Fishing on the Korana River
The Korana River is a clear blue-green river known for its peaceful environment and diverse fish population. It is rich in freshwater species such as pike, chub, catfish, and other white fish, making it an attractive fishing destination throughout the year.
Fishing near waterfalls and rapids is particularly exciting during the warmer months. In spring and autumn, the river becomes especially popular among anglers targeting active pike and other river predators, while night fishing on the Korana offers a unique experience immersed in nature.
Besides the Gacka and Korana rivers, fishing enthusiasts also frequently visit the Slunjčica, Glina, and Suvača rivers, all known for their clean waters, peaceful surroundings, and abundant fish stocks.
Before going fishing, make sure to check which fishing permit is required.
Where to Stay? Lyra Hotel Plitvice
Lyra Hotel Plitvice is the perfect base for exploring all the activities the Plitvice region has to offer. Since there is so much to see and experience, a multi-day stay in Plitvice is an excellent idea for the upcoming warm months.
To fully enjoy the water activities and natural beauty of the area, you need a peaceful and comfortable place to stay – one that is also well connected to all major attractions and destinations.
Located in Ličko Petrovo Selo, surrounded by untouched nature and close to all important roads, Lyra Hotel Plitvice offers everything you need for a relaxing and memorable holiday.
Spacious, fully equipped rooms, additional amenities such as a gym, swimming pool, and restaurant, all just a short distance from the magnificent Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Book your stay today and dive into the unforgettable water activities of the Plitvice region.
A Hotel Stay Where You're Never in a Hurry – Lyra Hotel Plitvice
A true vacation doesn't end when you walk out of Plitvice Lakes National Park - it only just begins. At Lyra Hotel Plitvice, the outdoor pool and pool bar become the heart of relaxation, far enough from the noise of the city, yet close to all the charms of Plitvice and Lika. Discover the hotel's amenities and unwind like never before!
If you're looking for a holiday that allows you to truly switch off, Lika offers the perfect setting. From the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes and the charm of Rastoke to quiet forest walks and star-filled evenings, this region invites you to embrace the art of slow travel and rediscover the joy of taking your time.
Plitvice Lakes are not only famous for their waterfalls and untouched nature, but also for their exceptionally rich wildlife. Discover which animals inhabit the Plitvice area, where you can see bears and deer, and how to explore the landscapes of Lika on horseback. Experience Plitvice Lakes from a completely new perspective.
