A guide to exploring national parks near Opatija

Opatija is a charming coastal town nestled on the stunning Adriatic coast of Croatia. Known for its mild Mediterranean climate, Opatija is surrounded by lush parks and graced with a beautiful blend of seaside and mountain landscapes. Situated at the foot of the majestic Učka Mountain, Opatija serves as a gateway to several national parks that attract nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The town’s unique geographical positioning allows visitors to explore diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches and lush forests to rugged mountain terrains. Start your journey to one of the fascinating national parks near Opatija from the comfort of our apartments or villas.

It’s a good idea to prepare for exploring these national parks by wearing comfortable shoes, dressing in layers, bringing some snacks, and checking the weather forecast in advance. Additionally, since each national park has an entrance fee, purchasing tickets online can help you avoid waiting in long lines at the entrance.

National park Brijuni

Southwest of Opatija, just a 1-hour and 15-minute drive away, lies the magnificent Brijuni National Park, an archipelago consisting of 14 picturesque islands famed for their unspoiled natural beauty and rich historical heritage. The Brijuni Islands were declared a national park in 1983. To visit the national park, you need to board a boat in the small town of Fažana. The dock from which the boat departs is located in the town center. Before boarding, you need to purchase tickets, which can be bought at their office or online. The boat ride to Brijuni takes about 15 minutes. Visitors can wander through remnants of Roman architecture, explore ancient quarries, and even embark on a unique safari park experience. The turquoise waters surrounding these islands offer pristine beaches that are perfect for relaxation or exploration by snorkeling. Botanical enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse plant species thriving here due to Brijuni’s favorable climate conditions.

National park Risnjak

One hour inland from Opatija is the enchanting Risnjak National Park, spanning 6,350 hectares. Renowned for its dense forests teeming with wildlife and the dramatic peaks of the impressive Risnjak mountain range. Declared a national park in 1953, Risnjak presents countless opportunities for hikers to traverse trails that lead through captivating landscapes, offering glimpses of stunning panoramic views. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot rare species such as lynx and brown bears in their natural habitats. Risnjak showcases the raw beauty of Croatia’s inland mountainous regions with its unspoiled nature and remarkable biodiversity, boasting even 1,148 species and subspecies of flora.

National park Plitvice Lakes

One of Croatia’s most famous attractions, National Park Plitvice Lakes, is a must-see destination for travelers exploring from Opatija. It is the oldest and largest national park in Croatia, since 1949. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this breathtaking park is renowned for its 16 terraced lakes interconnected by a series of mesmerizing waterfalls and cascades. Strewn with wooden walkways, Plitvice allows visitors to wander amidst lush forests while marveling at vibrant turquoise waters combined with exquisite flora and fauna that have captured the hearts of photographers worldwide. People from all over the world come to witness the beauty of this park. Plitvice Lakes are a little over a 2.5-hour drive from Opatija, but trust me, it’s worth the trip.

National park North Velebit

Located just two hours from Opatija, the remarkable North Velebit National Park is celebrated for its rugged mountain vistas and unique endemic plant species. Established as a national park in 1999, it holds the distinction of being Croatia’s youngest national park. In 2017, it was also inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the “Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe.” This park offers an abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking along the legendary Premužić Trail—often hailed as one of Croatia’s most scenic routes—along with wildlife tracking opportunities amidst untouched natural surroundings. Adventurers can explore exhilarating cave systems or simply take in the unparalleled panoramic views stretching across vast landscapes toward the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, North Velebit is a true gem of Croatia’s wild beauty.

Opatija is not merely a scenic coastal retreat; it serves as an ideal launchpad for discovering multiple spectacular national parks nearby. Each offers distinctive experiences — from serene island paradises in Brijuni to awe-inspiring lake systems at Plitvice Lakes — ensuring unforgettable adventures await every visitor intrigued by nature’s splendor near this captivating corner of Croatia.