June is the perfect time to explore Croatia on foot. The warm Mediterranean weather is just right—sunny but not scorching—and the landscapes are in full bloom. With its dramatic coastline, lush national parks, and rugged mountain trails, Croatia offers some of the best hiking experiences in Southern Europe. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, this country has a trail that will inspire awe and wonder.
From the fairy-tale waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes to the challenging ascents of Velebit Mountain, hiking in Croatia in June allows you to see the country at its greenest and most vibrant. In this guide, we’ll take you through the 10 best hikes in Croatia in June, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and unforgettable views.
1. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a dream for nature lovers. This expansive park is famous for its cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes, and wooden walkways that meander through dense forests and karst rock formations.
Trail Highlights
June is the perfect month to explore the park, as the waterfalls are at their fullest and the crowds haven’t peaked yet. Opt for Route H or K for a moderate 5 to 6-hour hike that covers both Upper and Lower Lakes. These trails showcase a variety of lake views and the impressive Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall).
2. Paklenica National Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Located in northern Dalmatia, Paklenica National Park is a haven for hikers and rock climbers. Its dramatic canyons—Velika and Mala Paklenica—cut through the southern slopes of Velebit Mountain and offer various trails with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
Trail Highlights
One of the best hikes is the trail to Anića Kuk, a towering cliff that provides sweeping views. Another excellent route is the hike to the mountain hut Dom Paklenica, where you can stop for refreshments. The diverse terrain includes rocky paths, lush valleys, and cool streams—perfect for a June hike.
3. Velebit Mountain
Why It’s a Must-Do
As Croatia’s largest mountain range, Velebit is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers trails that range from challenging to family-friendly. Hiking here in June allows you to enjoy cooler high-altitude temperatures while admiring alpine flora in bloom.
Trail Highlights
The Premužić Trail is the crown jewel of Velebit hiking. This 57 km trail can be broken into segments, with the most popular being from Zavižan to Alan. This section offers breathtaking views over the Adriatic and dramatic karst formations, with relatively easy terrain ideal for a full-day hike.
4. Biokovo Nature Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Rising steeply above the Makarska Riviera, Biokovo Nature Park is known for its limestone cliffs, wildlife, and the Skywalk viewpoint. It’s a challenging yet rewarding hike, offering unmatched views of the coastline and nearby islands.
Trail Highlights
Start your hike from the village of Makar and follow the trail to the peak of Sveti Jure, the highest point in southern Croatia at 1,762 meters. June is a great time to hike here due to cooler mountaintop temperatures and blooming alpine flowers.
5. Mljet National Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Located on the green island of Mljet, this park offers serene trails that wind through pine forests, saltwater lakes, and ancient ruins. It’s a quieter alternative to the mainland parks, perfect for peaceful exploration.
Trail Highlights
Hike around Veliko and Malo Jezero (Large and Small Lake), with stops at the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on St. Mary’s Island. You can combine hiking with swimming and kayaking, making it an ideal summer destination.
6. Risnjak National Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Situated in the Gorski Kotar region, Risnjak offers cooler temperatures and dense forest trails, ideal for escaping the summer heat. This park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to lynxes, bears, and over 1,000 plant species.
Trail Highlights
The hike to the Veliki Risnjak peak (1,528 meters) is the most rewarding, offering panoramic views of the Kvarner Bay and Slovenian Alps. The trail begins at the Leska Education Trail and takes about 4-5 hours round trip.
7. Učka Nature Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Overlooking the Istrian Peninsula, Učka Nature Park is known for its rich flora, ancient history, and striking views of the Adriatic. The park is especially beautiful in June when wildflowers cover the hills.
Trail Highlights
The trail to Vojak Peak, the highest point in the park at 1,401 meters, is a popular route. It starts from Poklon Pass and takes around 3 hours. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Istria, the sea, and even the Italian Alps on clear days.
8. Krka National Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Famous for its cascading waterfalls and ancient monasteries, Krka National Park is an accessible hiking destination in the heart of Dalmatia. In June, the park is vibrant, and the waterfalls are in full flow.
Trail Highlights
The trail around Skradinski Buk—the park’s most famous waterfall—is a scenic loop that includes wooden walkways, water mills, and viewpoints. For a more extended hike, consider the route from the town of Skradin to the park’s entrance, which follows the Krka River through Mediterranean forest and grasslands.
9. Northern Velebit National Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Less crowded than its southern counterpart, Northern Velebit is perfect for solitude and untouched nature. It’s also part of the same UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers dramatic karst landscapes and mountain vistas.
Trail Highlights
The Zavižan-Balinovac-Velika Kosa trail is a highlight, featuring alpine meadows, limestone formations, and panoramic viewpoints. The park also connects to the Premužić Trail for those seeking longer hikes.
10. Medvednica Nature Park
Why It’s a Must-Do
Just outside Zagreb, Medvednica Nature Park is a favorite among locals for quick escapes into nature. It offers well-marked trails, historical sites, and cool forested paths perfect for a summer hike.
Trail Highlights
The hike to Sljeme, the park’s highest peak, is popular and offers excellent views over Zagreb. The trail passes old mines, medieval forts, and mountain huts where you can enjoy traditional Croatian cuisine.
Conclusion
Croatia is a hiker’s paradise in June. The landscapes are lush, the trails are clear, and the weather is just right. From the cascading waterfalls of Plitvice to the towering cliffs of Biokovo, the country offers an incredible variety of hikes that cater to all levels of fitness and experience.
What makes hiking in Croatia even more special is the opportunity to combine it with cultural experiences, coastal relaxation, and culinary delights. Whether you’re staying inland or along the coast, there’s a stunning trail not far away.
Don’t forget to check out other incredible destinations on your European journey. See the Best Places to Visit in Europe for even more travel inspiration.
So lace up your hiking boots, grab your daypack, and get ready to discover the natural beauty of Croatia—one trail at a time.
