Finding Peace at Plitvice Lakes

I sit in self-isolation in my living room whilst attempting to finish writing an article on the amazing Plitvice Lakes. A little virus called SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19 as it’s commonly referred to, is on its own tour of the globe, determined to visit every destination, hitchhiking in human cells, and destroying thousands of lives while it’s at it. My country had just lived through its worst fire season in recorded history, and now we sit together… and alone, as this Pandemic takes its toll while the land recovers from the flames.

Flattening the curve is crucial to ensuring our healthcare system can cope with the increasing number of COVID-19 hospitalisations. We expect it to worsen as Winter is coming. A total lockdown has not yet been enacted in Australia, though expect its inevitable declaration, a necessity due to complacency and non-compliance (think of the super spreaders, “she’ll be right” & “I’m young & immune” mentality. Yet the young and healthy people can die too, even though the stats say they are low risk? Yes. 

Draconian – (of laws or their application) excessively harsh and severe. 

– Oxford

Despite the overuse of this word in the media, Australia is far from delivering ‘draconian measures’. So far we’ve been directed to practice good hygiene, socially distance, self-isolate if necessary and stay home (unless leave is essential). This is not difficult. And if you can’t follow the rules, you’ll cop a fine. This is not draconian. And if you’re still unclear on the appropriate use of draconian, then we need only look the example of the Philippines, where you could be shot on sight of violating the lockdown.

Before this turns into a full article on COVID-19, let’s track back to something amazing… so worthwhile, that when this Pandemic is over, you will want to plan an adventure!

Plitvice Lakes National Park 💚

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When we confirmed our Croatia trip, I insisted we visit UNESCO Heritage-listed Plitvice Lakes. Having the desire to see the lakes in winter is not on everyone’s bucket list, however it came with great benefits. The icy, snow-covered lakes were simply stunning, and vastly different to the saturated shades of green observed in the warmer months.

We took a private day tour with our guide, Nenad, of Zico Day Tours. Having grown up in Croatia during the 90s, Nenad shared some fervent stories about former Yugoslavia and the tension that still exists between the Balkan nations.

The journey from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes takes about 2 hours by car. Leave earlier to avoid crowds (no crowds in winter!) so you have more time to explore the National Park. Be aware that some sections of the lakes are closed during winter, however there are still plenty of mesmerising landscapes to enjoy at peace. Check Plitvička Jezera National Park website for seasonal details and closures when planning your visit. And remember to remain on the designated paths: don’t wander where you shouldn’t.

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If you love snow and frozen landscapes, you’ll certainly appreciate the frozen beauty of Plitvice Lakes in winter. After reading many positive reviews, we chose the Private 8-Hour Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zagreb and loved the service Nenad provided. 

Ever been to Croatia? Love exploring new places? Travel plans might be on hiatus right now, but that shouldn’t stop us from reminiscing and sharing some travel stories. In times of uncertainty, spreading positive spirit is so important, it can even be… infectious! Take care 💛