National Park Paklenica

One of the most attractive parts of southern Velebit is certainly the stunning canyons of Velika and Mala Paklenica. The name “Paklenica” most likely originates from the resin of the black pine, known as “paklina,” which was traditionally used by locals in folk medicine for wound healing, as a torch for lighting, and for coating wooden boats. The distinctive features of Paklenica National Park include native black pine forests, several types of beech forests, and deep canyons with streams – the torrents of Velika and Mala Paklenica. To protect this unique geological area, as well as the largest forested area in Dalmatia, a 95 km² area was declared a national park in 1949.

The valley of Velika Paklenica is 14.5 km long. Due to the impermeable lithological base, water remains in the riverbed of Velika Paklenica throughout the year, from its source to its confluence with Brezimenjača. The section from Anića Kuk to Marasovići, a length of 3 km, has distinct canyon characteristics – it is narrow (a few dozen meters) and deep (up to 400 m). Collapsed rock blocks partially obstruct the canyon, creating rapids and small waterfalls. This area is of exceptional geomorphological value and is known as Croatia’s most attractive climbing site, popular among climbers across Europe and beyond.

The trail included in this tour is recreational and tourist-oriented, easy and suitable for beginner hikers, families with children, and all walking enthusiasts who enjoy spending time in nature.

TRAIL ROUTE

Velika Paklenica entrance – Anića Luka – Lugarnica – Paklenica Mountain Hut

TRAIL LENGTH: 12 km
DIFFICULTY: 1.5/5
WALKING TIME: 4 hours (5 hours total with breaks)
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 490 m above sea level

ITINERARY

1. 06:30 – Boarding in Krk (Plodine parking lot), 07:00 – Boarding at Šmrika bus stop.
2. Travel continues towards Senj – Žuta Lokva – Maslinica – Starigrad Paklenica.
3. 10:00 – Entry into the National Park at Entrance 1 – Velika Paklenica.
4. Easy hiking along the main park trail with views of climbing sites, Anića Kuk, and seasonal rapids formed by melting snow from the peaks of southern Velebit.
5. The group will adjust its pace to the slowest members, taking several small breaks (helipad, Lugarnica), leading up to the Paklenica Mountain Hut, where we will have a longer break of about 30 minutes for a light meal, coffee, and rehydration.
   Note: At this time of year, park restaurants may be closed, so all necessary food and drinks should be carried in a backpack (!).
6. Around 13:00 – 13:30, we begin the descent along the same trail back to the parking lot and mini-bus.
7. 16:00 – Group transfer by mini-bus to Starigrad (5 min.), followed by free time for lunch, coffee, or ice cream. A group lunch can be arranged but is not included in the package price.
8. 17:30 – Departure back to Krk.
9. 20:30 – Estimated return to Krk.

TRANSPORTATION

A comfortable mini-bus with a capacity of 19 passengers or, after demand, tourist bus with capacity of 50 seats.