Discover the Most Stunning Nature Parks in the Balkans
From Croatia to Albania, and from Montenegro to Bulgaria, the nations within the Balkan region boast an abundance of natural reserves, each offering distinct attractions. Let’s take a more detailed look at some we particularly enjoy.
Enchanting glacial lakes with an ethereal azure hue, majestic mountains kissing the heavens, verdant green valleys teeming with untamed wildlife... The natural reserves of the Balkans beckon to be explored, yet one journey will prove insufficient to witness their full splendor!
Organizing a journey through the Balkans? Below are several articles to assist you in planning your journey:
- The Balkans: Top Beaches You Should Visit
- Which Country Should You Pick for Your Next Adventure in the Balkans?
- 6 essential delicacies to sample during your upcoming journey through the Balkans
The four most stunning natural parks in the Balkan region are worth exploring.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, located in Croatia,
A nearly magical experience awaits those who visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia , with half of it being part of the Balkan region.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park encompasses nearly 300 kilometers. 2 It features renowned lakes with pristine turquoise waters, connected via stunning waterfalls. An excellent system of trails and elevated walkways makes it simple to explore these captivating vistas. Alternatively, you can embark on a boat tour across one of the lakes or hop on a scenic railway for sweeping views from various vantage points.
Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Durmitor National Park located in the Balkan region, and more precisely in Montenegro At times it resembles Switzerland, and at others, the United States with its dramatic cliffs—such as Mount Durmitor—its icy gorges, which include Europe’s deepest gorge, the Tara Canyon. The region also boasts sprawling pine forests and pristine alpine lakes. Within this haven for wildlife, one can occasionally glimpse creatures typically hidden from view, including bears, wolves, and eagles.
You'll also love wandering through the traditional Montenegrin villages surrounding the entire park, where their stone homes and medieval churches provide a window into traditional Montenegrin countryside living.
Rila National Park, Bulgaria
It’s time to make our way to Bulgaria, specifically to Rila National Park—the biggest one within the nation—which offers an intriguing experience for everyone eager to discover it. Upon arrival, you’ll likely notice the majestic mountain range that shares its name with this park; indeed, justifiably so, as Mount Musala, standing at an impressive height of 2,925 meters, claims the title of the tallest summit not only here but throughout the entire Balkan region.
Next, you'll be captivated by the Seven Lakes of Rila, a series of glacial bodies situated at varying elevations. This will be succeeded by the glistening Rila Monastery, an outstanding example of medieval Bulgarian architectural prowess. Conclude your hiking adventure with rejuvenating natural hot springs like those found in Sapareva Banya.
National Park of Bjeshket e Nemuna, Kosovo
On the border with Albania The Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park in Kosovo offers a chance to explore a relatively undiscovered and thus less crowded section of the Balkans. You can revel in untouched natural landscapes, breathtaking vistas of steep mountains and serene glacial lakes, giving you the sense that you’re completely solitary amidst nature’s untamed beauty.
This trek will lead you through various historical sites including medieval churches and monasteries. archaeological sites important to the area's intricate and multifaceted past.