Skradinski Buk Waterfall

Skradinski Buk is the largest and best-known waterfall of Krka National Park, in Šibenik-Knin County in northern Dalmatia, and it is one of the most visited natural attractions in Croatia. The Krka river flows through a deep karst canyon, and along its course, the water has built a series of travertine barriers, which are natural dams made of calcium carbonate deposited on moss and plants. Skradinski Buk is the last and longest of these barriers, a series of seventeen cascades and terraces that stretch for several hundred metres and drop around forty-five metres in total. The water runs over and between the green tufa, forming pools, islets and small falls, and the sound of falling water fills the air. The setting is lush, with willows, reeds and Mediterranean vegetation, and the colour of the water shifts from emerald to turquoise.

The visit is organised around a circular route of wooden boardwalks and paths, which pass over and beside the water and offer views from many angles. The walkways are well maintained, and they lead through shaded woodland and over small bridges, so visitors can look closely at the cascades, the pools and the plants. Along the way, there are restored watermills, which once ground grain and fulled cloth, and remnants of early hydroelectric installations. The Jaruga power plant, a short distance downstream, was built in 1895 and is one of the oldest in Europe, put into operation only a few days after the famous Niagara plant. Small exhibitions explain traditional crafts, such as weaving and milling, and the park runs educational workshops.

The area is home to a rich variety of plants and animals. The wetlands and river support many birds, fish, amphibians and insects, including dragonflies and butterflies, and in summer the surrounding slopes are fragrant with herbs. The park is also known for its lavender and other Mediterranean plants. Swimming below the falls used to be a major attraction, but rules have changed, and swimming is now restricted in most of the park, so check the current regulations before you plan to bring a swimsuit. Boat excursions from the town of Skradin, which lies on the estuary, take visitors up the river to the falls and also to other sites in the park, such as Visovac Island.

Admission is by ticket for Krka National Park, which can be bought online or at the entrance, and prices vary by season. The falls are busiest from late morning to afternoon in July and August, so an early start or a visit in spring or autumn gives a quieter experience, and in spring, the water volume is the highest. Wear shoes with grip, since the boardwalks can be wet, bring a hat, water and a camera, and keep to the marked paths. The town of Skradin has a clock tower and cafés, and a path leads along the river.

The waterfall suits families, photographers and nature lovers. Allow two to three hours, and combine it with a boat trip.