Guided Hike in Paklenica National Park departing from Novalja

Take a guided hike in the Paklenica National Park from Novalja and explore the Velebit's characteristic canyons in unspoilt countryside!

If you're looking for a hike departing from Novalja, this guided hike in Paklenica National Park is for you! So pack your backpack and join your guide for a 5-hour adventure in the Croatian mountains!

Paklenica National Park is located in the south-western part of Velebit, near Starigrad. Created in 1949, the park is renowned for its karstic nature and attracts many mountaineers and climbers. The name Paklenica comes from the sap of the black pine called ‘Paklina’, used by the natives in traditional medicine, to heal wounds, for lighting and for the surface treatment of wooden boats.

Your guided hike from Novalja begins with a transfer to Paklenica National Park. Once at the park’s Entrance 1, the hike begins along its most popular trail, following the flow of the Velika Paklenica stream into a world carved by water and time. Early in the hike, you’ll visit the restored Srednji Marasović Mill, one of 15 historic watermills once used by local communities and now preserved as a testament to traditional craftsmanship. As the trail ascends gradually, sheer cliffs begin to rise dramatically on either side, some reaching over 700 metres in height.
The route continues towards Anića luka, a tranquil rest area surrounded by towering rock walls, before winding deeper into the park toward Lugarnica, a rustic hospitality stop nestled by the stream. Here, you’ll find a peaceful moment to catch your breath and enjoy the serene environment before continuing on to the Paklenica Mountain Lodge, your final destination on the trail.

At the lodge, you’ll have time to rest and enjoy your lunch, surrounded by the unspoilt nature of Velebit. During the hike, you'll learn all about this natural park and some anecdotes about Croatian nature.
After lunch and some well-deserved downtime, you’ll retrace your steps along the same scenic path back to the starting point. The bus will then take you back to Novalja, concluding this 8-hour experience, with around five hours spent immersed in the park itself.

Experience a moment of relaxation in the unspoilt nature of the Velebit during this guided hike departing from Novalja! Everything is organised for you, so all you have to do is hop on the transfer bus and trust your experienced guide to enjoy the great outdoors in complete safety!

If you're looking for a hike in Croatia, don't miss out on its largest mountain range, book this guided hike in the Paklenica national park and discover the southern Velebit!