Entrance Viewpoint | Plitvice Lakes

Entrance 1 Viewpoint is one of the key vantage points in Plitvice Lakes National Park, offering visitors a stunning perspective of the park's landscape. Situated near Entrance 1, which is one of the two main entrances to the park, this viewpoint provides an excellent opportunity to admire the beauty of the park’s upper lakes, waterfalls, and surrounding natural environment.

Overview of Entrance 1 Viewpoint

1. Location

• Entrance 1: This viewpoint is located near Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes National Park, which is located at the northern side of the park. Entrance 1 is one of the primary access points to the park and is easily reachable by car or bus.
• Position: The viewpoint is positioned above the Upper Lakes area of the park, which includes a series of smaller lakes and waterfalls that are interconnected by wooden boardwalks and trails.

2. Features of the Viewpoint

• Panoramic Views: The Entrance 1 Viewpoint provides a panoramic view of the Upper Lakes, which are a series of beautiful turquoise-colored lakes set among lush greenery. From here, visitors can see the entire chain of upper lakes and observe how the water flows down from one lake to the next, eventually cascading into the lower lakes below.
• Waterfalls and Cascades: The viewpoint offers a clear view of several of the park's waterfalls, including smaller cascades that feed into the Upper Lakes. The views from this viewpoint give visitors a great perspective of the park's natural water systems.
• Natural Landscape: Surrounded by trees and rocky formations, the viewpoint offers a great view of the surrounding lush forest. The landscape here is serene, providing a perfect spot for photography or just soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

3. Accessibility

• Hiking and Walking Trails: The viewpoint is accessible via hiking trails and boardwalks that lead through the park's Upper Lakes area. The trails are well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great starting point for visitors exploring the park. From this viewpoint, visitors can choose to continue their journey on different trails that lead deeper into the park, including routes that take them to the Lower Lakes and the famous Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall).
• Close to Entrance 1: The viewpoint is conveniently located near Entrance 1, making it a popular starting point for many visitors. After entering the park, visitors can quickly head to the viewpoint to get their first breathtaking look at the park’s stunning scenery.

4. Best Time to Visit

• Morning and Late Afternoon: To avoid crowds and to capture the best light for photos, it’s ideal to visit the Entrance 1 Viewpoint in the morning or late afternoon. The soft morning or late-afternoon light enhances the colors of the lakes and surrounding landscape, providing a great atmosphere for photography and sightseeing.
• Spring and Summer: The viewpoint is particularly beautiful in spring and summer, when the park is lush and green, and the waterfalls are flowing at their fullest after the snowmelt. The vibrant colors of the lakes and the surrounding flora make this the most popular time to visit.

5. Why Visit the Entrance 1 Viewpoint?

• Stunning Views: The Entrance 1 Viewpoint offers some of the most picturesque views of the Upper Lakes, with the vibrant turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls creating a striking contrast with the surrounding greenery.
• Great for Photography: The wide panoramic view is perfect for capturing the natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Whether you’re taking photos of the lakes, waterfalls, or the overall landscape, this viewpoint provides one of the best angles in the park.
• Access to Trails: From the viewpoint, visitors can continue on the park’s extensive network of walking trails. This is a key location for visitors who want to explore both the Upper Lakes and the Lower Lakes, and it serves as a gateway to the more famous sights of the park, such as Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall) and Kozjak Lake.

Conclusion

The Entrance 1 Viewpoint in Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit location for anyone exploring the park. Offering breathtaking views of the Upper Lakes, waterfalls, and the surrounding lush landscape, this viewpoint provides an excellent introduction to the beauty of the park. Whether you’re starting your journey through Plitvice or just looking for a great spot to take in the natural wonders of the area, the Entrance 1 Viewpoint offers an unforgettable experience.