From Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Croatia is located on the Balkan Peninsula and shares borders with Slovenia, Hungary, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Facing the Adriatic Sea, its capital, Zagreb, has a population of approximately 4.4 million and has long flourished as a key transportation hub. This small capital city is dotted with attractions such as the bustling Ban Jelacic Square in the center of the city and Zagreb Cathedral, a neo-Gothic church with two eye-catching spires over 100 meters high. There are also many museums scattered around, such as the Croatian Museum of Natural History and the Zagreb Archaeological Museum. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city, which has a somewhat nostalgic atmosphere.
Well, if you want to enjoy water scenery starting from Zagreb, be sure to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, which can be reached in just over two hours by bus. Registered as a World Heritage Site in 1979, this national park is dotted with 16 large and small lakes and countless waterfalls within a vast park of about 192 square kilometers. The unique landscape of crystal clear lakes lined up in a staircase-like pattern was created by the formation of a natural dam made of limestone deposits. The landscape of crystal clear lakes, countless waterfalls, and virgin forests of beech and fir is so beautiful that it will take your breath away.
As you walk along the boardwalk in the park, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the water's surface, which changes from emerald green to cobalt blue depending on the light. The lush surrounding forest is also home to bears, wolves and other wildlife, creating a rich ecosystem.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a place where you can enjoy the changing scenery of each season, such as when the water level rises due to melting snow in early spring, when the trees sparkle with fresh greenery in early summer, and when the lake is colored with vibrant red leaves in autumn. It can be accessed from Zagreb by bus or rental car, and day trips are also available. Be sure to see this spectacular view that represents Croatia with your own eyes.
From Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, to Lake Bled
Located in Central Europe, Slovenia borders Italy, Austria, Croatia, and Hungary. More than half of the country is covered in deep forests, and the country is known for its diverse topography, from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a city where Slavic, Germanic, and Latin cultures have intersected since ancient times. The Ljubljanica River flows through the center of the city, and beautiful bridges such as the "Triple Bridge," "Dragon Bridge," and "Butcher's Bridge" are built over it. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city from Ljubljana Castle, which stands on a small hill, and a leisurely walk through the old town, where historical streetscapes remain. In Ljubljana, you can enjoy such a peaceful travel experience.
If you are looking for beautiful water scenery from the capital, Ljubljana, then head to Lake Bled, located about an hour to an hour and a half by bus. Located in the Julian Alps in northwestern Slovenia, the lake is a glacial lake created by glacial action. The lake is about 2,120m long and 1,380m wide, and is surrounded by lush forests, with sights such as Bled Castle, built in the Middle Ages, dotting the northern shore. In the center of the lake is Bled Island, the only natural island in Slovenia, on which beautiful buildings such as St. Mary's Church stand. Lake Bled, which once flourished as a villa for royalty and aristocrats, is sometimes called the "eye of the Alps" for its beauty. It is now loved as a lake resort symbolizing Slovenia, and is visited by many travelers from both within and outside of Japan. You can stroll along the lakeside with its fairy-tale scenery, take a boat to the island, or enjoy the peaceful resort time. Here you can experience an elegant travel experience that can only be experienced at Lake Bled.
"Plitvice Lakes National Park" in Croatia and "Lake Bled" in Slovenia. The beautiful water scenery you can enjoy just a short trip from the capital city will surely show you a new charm of traveling in Europe.
Comment
Among the many natural heritage sites in Europe, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one that fascinates people with its fantastical beauty. This place, which has beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, shines especially vividly in autumn. The best time to see the autumn leaves is around mid- to late October, when you can enjoy the contrast between the emerald green lake water and the gorgeously colored trees!
The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
