Activity Description
The program starts in Novalja with a gathering and transportation by tourist bus accompanied by a guide to Paklenica National Park, one of the most attractive hiking destinations in Croatia. The area of Velika and Mala Paklenica was declared a national park thanks to its unique natural foundation and magnificent forests. The forest complex in the park area is the best-preserved and largest in Dalmatia. Covering an area of 95 km², it features an impressive wealth of geomorphological phenomena and formations, diverse flora and fauna, and pristine nature. The canyons of Velika and Mala Paklenica are certainly some of the most attractive parts of the southern Velebit. The name Paklenica probably originates from the black pine resin called “Paklina,” which locals use in traditional medicine for healing wounds, as a light source, and for coating wooden boats. Hiking along the unique canyons vertically carved into the southern slopes of Velebit is the only way to truly experience Paklenica.
Entry to the park is through Entrance 1 – Velika Paklenica, from where the hiking tour begins along the most visited trail in the park, stretching from the Velika Paklenica canyon to the Mountain Lodge. Along the Velika Paklenica stream, 15 mills were built during the 19th century. Although none of the mills are functional today, you will visit a restored mill located 150 meters northeast of Entrance 1. The hike continues towards Anića luka. On both sides of the Velika Paklenica canyon rise vertical cliffs, some over 700 meters high. Downstream from Anića luka is the most impressive part of the Velika Paklenica canyon, an area of steep stream drop where sheer cliffs rise directly above the stream, forming the narrowest part of the canyon between Anića luka and the parking lot. After Anića luka, the tour continues toward Lugarnica, a hospitality facility located right next to the Velika Paklenica stream.
During the hike, you will be informed about the natural features and cultural characteristics of the area through educational boards placed along the trail. The hike proceeds to the Paklenica Mountain Lodge, where free time is planned for rest and lunch. Afterwards, there is a return by the same route to the starting point of the hiking tour. The trip concludes with transportation back to Novalja.
Itinerary – Standard Route
Starting Location
The trip starts in Novalja at the Sunturist travel agency.
Entrance 1 Velika Paklenica
At the Entrance 1 reception, the guide collects the tickets, and then the trip continues by paved road 2 km into the Velika Paklenica canyon to the main parking lot.
Srednji Marasović Mill
Srednji Marasović Mill, one of 15 mills built during the 19th century, was restored in 2000 to preserve the unique traditional architectural style.
Anića Luka
The most attractive part of the Velika Paklenica canyon is the steep stream drop downstream from Anića Luka, where vertical cliffs rise above the stream, forming the narrowest part of the canyon between Anića Luka and the parking lot.
Lugarnica
Lugarnica is a hospitality facility located along the main hiking trail in the Velika Paklenica canyon, about 4 km from the main parking lot. Payment for services at the facility is cash only.
Paklenica Mountain Lodge
The Paklenica Mountain Lodge is about 6 km from the main parking lot in the Velika Paklenica canyon, and the hike to the lodge takes about two hours.
Entrance 1 Velika Paklenica
After resting at the Mountain Lodge, the return is by the same route to the bus.
Return to Starting Location
The trip ends back at the Sunturist travel agency in Novalja.
Included in the price
Guide
A licensed English-speaking tourist guide takes care of the group during the trip. Depending on the group, guides speaking German, Italian, French, or other languages can be arranged.
Transport
The price includes transport by a comfortable tourist bus. For groups of up to 8 people, transport by van is organized.
Entrance Ticket
The price includes the entrance ticket to Paklenica National Park.
Important Information
What to bring?
Mandatory equipment:
- 1.5L water
- Hiking shoes
Recommended equipment:
- Fruit, snacks, energy bars
- Sunscreen, hat/cap, sunglasses (for warmer weather)
- Warmer clothing (for cooler weather)
- Windbreaker
- Umbrella or raincoat
- Spare socks
- Hiking poles (for those who usually use them)
Responsibility for Personal Belongings
The organizer is not responsible for lost, damaged, or missing items.
Required Skills
The activity is suitable for people with moderate physical fitness.
Route Changes
Depending on weather and operational conditions, the guide reserves the right to change the order and duration of activities for the safety of the group. The total duration of the activity is approximate and may vary depending on participants’ fitness, weather conditions, group size, and other factors.
Activity Start Time
Please arrive at the starting location 15 minutes before the activity begins.
Additional Information
Additional Options
For groups, we can organize special hiking routes and additional services such as lunch or dinner. Contact us for more information.
Transport
Besides transport from Novalja, we can arrange return transport from other locations. Please contact us for details.
Route Difficulty
The park tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with about 4.5 hours of walking. The route includes one rest stop. It is designed for people with moderate physical fitness.
Group Size
The activity requires a minimum of 10 participants. We can also organize the trip for fewer people, with a minimum price based on 10 participants.