Our hiking adventure begins in Krka National Park, one of the most beautiful corners of Croatia. Located in central Dalmatia, this park is easily accessible from both Zadar (about 80 km) and Split (about 100 km). The most convenient way to get here is by car or by bus, which runs regularly from nearby cities.

Krka National Park is primarily famous for its picturesque waterfalls and cascades formed by the Krka River. The main attraction is the impressive Skradinski Buk waterfall, but this is only the beginning of the adventure. The park offers several well-prepared hiking trails that allow you to admire not only the waterfalls, but also the lush vegetation and abundance of fauna.

One of the most recommended trails is the one around Skradinski Buk. It is an easy loop of about 2 kilometers, accessible to entire families, including the elderly and children. The trail is well marked and equipped with wooden bridges and viewing platforms, making it safe and comfortable. The hike takes about 1.5-2 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops for photos.

For more advanced hikers, we recommend the route to Roškog Slapa. This is a longer, approximately 8-kilometer trail that leads through less frequented parts of the park. Along the way you can admire not only waterfalls, but also traditional water mills and the rich flora of the region. This route requires good stamina and proper footwear, but you will be rewarded with spectacular views and the opportunity to commune with wildlife away from the crowds of tourists.

It's worth remembering that Krka National Park is open all year round, but opening hours and ticket prices vary depending on the season. From June to September, the park is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and tickets cost about 200-300 HRK for adults (depending on the season). Children under 7 years old get in for free. It's always a good idea to check current prices on the park's official website before visiting.

When preparing for a trip, remember to bring comfortable trekking shoes, headgear, UV sunscreen and plenty of water. There are food outlets in the park, but prices can be higher than outside the park, so it's a good idea to bring your own provisions. For families with children, we recommend taking snacks, drinks and possibly a small first aid kit with you.

The next point on our hiking adventure is the picturesque Mount Srd, rising above Dubrovnik. This is an ideal place for those who want to combine sightseeing in the city with active recreation and admiring the panoramic views. The summit of Srd can be reached on foot using a marked trail starting near the Old Town of Dubrovnik.

The route to Mount Srd, known as the 'Mount Srdj hiking tours', is an approximately 5-kilometer trail of medium difficulty. The hike usually takes between 1 and 1.5 hours one way, depending on your fitness and the number of stops. The trail starts at Jadranska cesta, near the Ploče gate. It is well marked, but requires proper footwear due to the rocky ground.

At the top of Srd, not only a breathtaking view of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands awaits, but also the Imperial Fortress from the Napoleonic era, which now houses a museum dedicated to the Croatian War. It's worth scheduling more time at the summit to fully enjoy the panorama and tour the fort.

For those who prefer an easier way to reach the top, a cable car is available. You can take it to the top and descend on foot, which is a good compromise for families with children or those in lesser shape.

Moving west from Dubrovnik, you reach the Pelješac Peninsula, which offers some of the most beautiful hiking trails in all of Croatia. We especially recommend the route to the peninsula's highest peak, Sveti Ilija, also known as the Sveti Ilija Peak Trailhead.

The trail to Sveti Ilija begins in the town of Orebić and is about 9 kilometers long (both ways). The trail is demanding and takes about 3-4 hours one way. It requires good fitness and adequate preparation. A steep path leads to the summit, which is rocky in places, so sturdy trekking shoes are essential.

The reward for the effort of climbing is amazing views of the Pelješac Peninsula, Korčula and the surrounding islands. At the summit there is a small chapel of St. Elijah and a lookout point. This is an ideal place for a picnic and a rest before returning.

When taking this route, be sure to bring enough water (at least 2 liters per person), energy snacks, headgear and UV sunscreen. It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast, as conditions on the summit can change quickly.

Both Mount Srd and Sveti Ilija are accessible year-round, but the best time to hike are the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) months, when temperatures are milder. During the summer season, early mornings or late afternoons are recommended to avoid the heat.

At the end of our hiking adventure in Croatia, a visit to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the most beautiful natural areas in Europe, should not be missed. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its cascading system of 16 turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush forests.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in central Croatia, about 130 km from Zagreb and 180 km from Split. The most convenient way to get here is by car, but regular bus services from Croatia's major cities are also available.

The park offers several well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulty, allowing you to tailor your trip to your own abilities and preferences. The most popular routes are:

1. route C - about 8 km, walking time 4-6 hours. This is an ideal option for families with children, including a cruise on Lake Kozjak and a ride on a panoramic train.

2. Route H - about 9 km, crossing time of 4-6 hours. This route runs along the Upper Lakes and offers views of the highest waterfalls in the park.

3. Route K - about 18 km, crossing time of 6-8 hours. This is the most challenging route, covering all the main attractions of the park.

All trails are well prepared, with wooden platforms and paths, making them accessible to most hikers. However, it is worth remembering to wear comfortable, non-slip footwear, as the paths can be slippery, especially near waterfalls.

The park is open year-round, but opening hours vary by season. During the summer season (June-September), the park is open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Ticket prices range from HRK 80 (low season) to HRK 300 (high season) for adults. Children under 7 years of age enter for free. It's always a good idea to check the park's official website for current prices and opening hours before visiting.

When preparing for a visit to Plitvice Lakes, remember:

• Comfortable, waterproof footwear
• A light rain jacket (the weather in the mountains can change quickly)
• Headgear and sunscreen with UV protection
• Enough water and snacks
• A camera or camcorder - the views are truly unforgettable!

You should also consider staying overnight near the park, which will allow you to get in early and avoid the biggest crowds. There are many guesthouses and campgrounds nearby, offering accommodations of various standards.

Hiking in Croatia is not only a way to stay active, but above all an opportunity to discover the true beauty of the country. From the picturesque Krka waterfalls, to the panoramic views from the mountains above Dubrovnik and Pelješac, to the fairy-tale landscapes of the Plitvice Lakes, each trail offers unique experiences and unforgettable views. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out on your trekking adventure, Croatia's trails have something to offer for everyone. Just remember to be properly prepared, respect nature and be ready to marvel at the beauty of the world around you. Croatia 'from the boot' is a trip you will remember for a long time!