Information
Landmark: Big WaterfallCity: Plitvice Lakes
Country: Croatia
Continent: Europe
Big Waterfall, Plitvice Lakes, Croatia, Europe
Overview
The Big Waterfall, or Veliki Slap, towers as the largest and most famous cascade in Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park, where mist hangs in the air of this UNESCO World Heritage site.You can’t miss this waterfall-its sheer drop thunders into the pool below, and the view will stop you in your tracks.A quick look at Veliki Slap, the towering waterfall that thunders down into a spray of cool mist.Veliki Slap sits in the southern stretch of Plitvice Lakes National Park, right in central Croatia, just a short drive from the rugged border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.The park is famous for its chain of sparkling lakes linked by tumbling waterfalls, and at the heart of it all stands Veliki Slap-soaring 78 meters (255 feet), it’s the tallest waterfall in Croatia.From different spots in the park, the waterfall’s height and roar make it impossible to ignore; fed by the Korana River, it plunges over a sheer cliff in a white, thundering sheet.This waterfall is one of many that weave through a chain of smaller falls and clear lakes in the park, together shaping a breathtaking landscape.Its broad, curtain-like sheet of water breaks apart mid-drop, scattering into slender streams that catch the light as they fall.Water tumbles over jagged rocks, sending up a cool mist as it crashes into the deep pool below, framed by thick, green foliage.Visitors can reach Veliki Slap along the park’s well-kept walking trails.From several viewing platforms, you can spot the waterfall with ease and take in sweeping views of the valley, mist curling in the air.A well-known trail winds down to the waterfall’s base, where you can feel the mist on your face and take in its full height.You can also spot it from several overlooks scattered throughout the park.Near the top of the waterfall, a favorite viewing spot lets visitors take in the entire rush of water, from the first silver spill to the mist at the base.From a lower vantage point, you can stand near the base of the waterfall, close enough to hear the steady roar and see the spray drift over the moss-covered rocks, while Veliki Slap remains a favorite with photographers for its dramatic height and the vivid green foliage that frames the crystal-clear water.From each viewpoint, you’ll find a chance to catch the waterfall from a fresh angle-maybe the spray on your face from one side, the full plunge in sight from another.When sunlight cuts through the mist rising from the waterfall, rainbows often appear-bright arcs you’ll want to capture in photos you’ll never forget.Things to Do Around Veliki Slap 1.Wander the paths around Veliki Slap, where rushing water echoes through the trees, and you’ll find they connect to the wider trail network of Plitvice Lakes National Park.The park has several walking paths, each giving you a fresh view of the waterfall, from misty spray at its base to the sunlight catching its crest.Some trails are easy strolls, while others lead you on longer treks linking shimmering lakes and cascading waterfalls.At the base of Veliki Slap sits Kozjak Lake-the park’s largest-where you can take a quiet boat ride across its glassy surface.Hop on a boat and glide across the lake for a fresh angle on the waterfall, its white spray drifting into the air and misting your face.A boat ride lets you take in the park’s beauty from the water, where the cliffs and trees seem to lean in close.Beyond Veliki Slap, dozens of other waterfalls spill and sparkle, each waiting to be explored.You can follow winding trails to other well-known falls, like the Mali Slap (Small Waterfall) and the Sastavci Waterfalls, turning your visit into a full day’s adventure.And when you’ve had your fill of rushing water, pause by the quiet lakeshore near Veliki Slap and take in the calm beauty of the park.You can sit by the waterfalls, listen to the rush of water tumbling over the rocks, and breathe in the scent of the dense, green forest all around.Between April and September, most visitors flock to Plitvice Lakes National Park, drawn by warm days and waterfalls roaring with snowmelt and spring rain.This is when the park’s lakes shimmer with life, framed by lush green banks.Come October, the trees near Veliki Slap blaze in deep orange, golden yellow, and crimson, making the whole place glow.The air turns crisp, the streets feel less crowded than in summer, and winter-from December to February-brings a quieter, more distinctive charm.Some trails might be closed by snow or slick with ice, but the winter scenery is pure magic-waterfalls frozen into glittering shapes that catch the pale sunlight make Veliki Slap worth the trip.Veliki Slap, soaring high and roaring with mist at its base, ranks among Croatia’s most breathtaking landmarks, drawing nature lovers from all over.The park bursts with wildflowers and the rustle of birds in the trees, pulling you into a landscape that feels untouched.As part of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Veliki Slap stands within one of Croatia’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage sites.With its rare chain of crystal lakes and tumbling waterfalls, the park stands out as a natural treasure recognized around the world.Whether you’re hiking the winding trails, snapping photos of sunlit spray, or just soaking in the view of Veliki Slap, it’s an unbeatable place for outdoor adventure.Winding trails, quiet lookout points, and gentle boat rides let visitors take in every bit of the area’s charm, from rustling leaves to the sparkle of sunlit water.In the heart of it all, Veliki Slap stands as Plitvice Lakes National Park’s crown jewel and a lasting symbol of its breathtaking beauty.Rising high above the trees, with water so clear you can see smooth stones on the bottom, it’s a sight no visitor to Croatia will forget.Whether you love hiking trails, snapping photos, or just standing in awe of a roaring waterfall, visiting Veliki Slap will likely be the moment you remember most from Plitvice Lakes National Park.
