Croatia declared independence in June 1991 following the disintegration of the former Yugoslavia, but had to defend its independence in a bloody war that only ended in 1995. Since then Croatia has been in the process of building itself into a major tourist destination.Located northeast of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia covers some 56,000 sq.km. and is blessed with over 1,200 islands and islets. The country has an amazingly long coastline of around 6,000 km. The beauty of its natural setting is matched by its inhabitants’ strong sense of identity and pride. Croatians are happy to welcome tourists and share their stories.Some might feel Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, lives in the shadow of other famous European cities, and it is often overlooked by travelers seeking the sea, which is only a two-hour drive away.However, this is a great city where’s there’s a lot to see; a good combination between the old and new worlds. Many wonderful examples of European architecture survived the wars intact, including the Croatian National Theater and the beautiful Art Pavilion building.In recent years the Zagreb municipality has invested great effort in restoring and preserving the city’s unique historical buildings.Zagreb is a walking city, and the trams are very efficient at transporting visitors in and out of the main square, which serves as the gate to all the sites. There is even an old funicular, which will save you climbing the stairs from the lower to the upper town. The city is also decorated with gardens and parks and you can always find a bench in a shady spot.The impressive Zagreb Cathedral is a Roman Catholic institution and the tallest building in Croatia. The sheer size of this 1,000-year-old artistic masterpiece is emphasized by the fact that is in a constant state of renovation. Nearby, climbing up through the alleys stands the Church of St. Marks with its unique coat of arms and mosaic roof.Early risers can start their day at the local market, operating daily from 7:00 a.m., located near the cathedral.Zagreb is clean, quiet and pleasant to stroll around in. The sense of community can be felt in the early evening, when the city organizes free cultural shows in the central square.From Zagreb, you can take a day tour to one of the most amazing nature parks in the world. You will likely need to stay at least a night or two at Plitvice Lakes national park, because a short visit is just not enough.The water of Plitvice lakes has been flowing over the limestone for thousands of years and has created a natural “garden of lakes” that is more beautiful than the greatest imagination could conjure.Plitvice Lakes was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979. The largest nature park in Croatia, it covers an area of over 300 sq.km. and welcomes more than a million visitors each year.Over the years, deposits of calcium carbonate and travertine blocked sections of the natural water trail in this rocky area, creating dams, magnificent waterfalls and lakes at various heights. The entire park is sustained and maintained by the area residents, who take great pride in constructing and maintaining the park trails.The dozens of large and small crystal-clear lakes are a feast for the senses, and the lush green of the healthy vegetation can be viewed in all directions. If you reach the park early in the morning (the park opens at 7 a.m.), this serenity will be yours, but keep in mind that within a few hours you will have to share this experience with the thousands of visitors that flood this popular park.During the early morning or late afternoon there is a chance you’ll see some of the local wildlife, including the European brown bear, the wolf and more than 100 species of birds.Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for the colorful shades of its waters, which range from green and blue to azure and turquoise. The colors change depending on the time of year, angle of light and concentration of minerals.Environmentally-friendly electric boats will take you across the lake that connects the lower part with the upper part of the waterfalls.SEA LOVERS will enjoy Zadar, located on the coast in the center of Croatia. This lovely port city on the shore of the Adriatic Sea has a history that goes back to the Stone Age. New Zadar is the fifth largest city in Croatia.Zadar has the characteristics of a typical Roman town, including stone passages, city walls, aqueduct, amphitheater, churches, basilica and citadel. The streets themselves will give the visitor a special feeling of wandering in a medieval town, even if the modern shops and coffee bars are everywhere.Fishing boats that spent the night at sea return to the harbor and unload their catch fresh and ready to sell in the morning fish market. Along the shoreline there is a modern promenade worth strolling through.“Greeting to the Sun”, created by architect Nikola Basic, consists of 300 multilayered glass panels, with embedded solar panels, set on the same level as the quay paving, and provides a symbolic sense of communication between the old town of Zadar and the sea and the sun.Close by are some recommended sites, including the nearby small village of Nin. Or, if you are up to the challenge, head to Paklenica Nature Park, a rough dolomite mountain that emerges from the sea. Here you will find walking trails that snake through the dolomite rocks or you can participate in rock climbing alongside the amateurs and professionals of Europe.THE CROATIAN coast should not be visited without trying out some island living. A short ferry ride (an experience in itself) will get you to your destination.The island of Rab is protected from the negative impact of the harsh marine winds of the Adriatic region thanks to a small mountain range. As a result, this 22-km.-long island is partly green, with lots of trees and grassy areas.The main town, also named Rab, is a medieval wonder built on three tiers, reaching 30 meters above sea level and connected by stairs and a very convenient walkway through narrow alleys, old palaces and four Venetian-inspired towers, which guard the city harbor.A long, recently-opened promenade connecting Rab town to the southern village of Barbat invites a most pleasant walk along the water, or even an easy bicycle ride. Of course the super-clear water of the Adriatic is always tempting for a quick dip.Croatia is a true gem, with a lot to see and do. The geographic beauty and the welcoming nature of Croats make this a worthy destination. The popular summer months of July and August offer many festivals and activities, while the pre- or after-season months are a great alternative to beat the crowds and experience the Croatian coast and much more. ■www.imnaturephoto.com
