National Parks and Nature Parks in Croatia Each of the eight national parks is unique in the way they have preserved their eco-system and wildlife. National Park „Brijuni“ is a group of fourteen islands and islets on the west side of the Istrian coast. They are a habitat for the preserved indigenuous mediterranean plants that coexist in harmony with deer, pheasants, zebras, peacocks and other species. National Park „Kornati“ is an archipelago situated in northern Dalmatia and consists of 140 desert islands, islets and cliffs. National Park „Krka“ is located near the ancient city of Sibenik and is famous for its waterfalls over karst lime rocks. National Park „Mljet“ is situated in the west of Dubrovnik. It is a small island with a dense vegetation. It has a valley that, due to its close connection to the sea, gives the visitors the impression of a lake. The greatest attraction is the benedictine monastery, an impressive witness of days gone by, dating back to the 12th century that was built on a small island situated in the middle of this lake. National Park „Plitvička jezera“ is included on the UNESCO'S World Heritage list since 1979. It's a destination with spectacular views of roaring waterfalls over karst lime barriers flowing into 16 interconnected lakes that are surrounded by a dense desiduous-evergreen forest. The brown bear is a constant inhabitant of the park and is protected by the law as an endangered species. National Park „Paklenica“ stretches over the maritime slopes of southern Velebit pervaded by rapid mountain streams belonging to the fluvial streams of Velika and Mala Paklenica. National Park „Risnjak“ is situated in the region called Gorski Kotar in the area of the massive Mount Risnjak and the source of the river Kupa. National Park „Sjeverni Velebit“ is, except for the passage of Premužić path, inaccessible for visitors and is more meant for scientific research. Croatia also abunds in numerous nature parks that are interesting for their phenomenal rarities. The most famous among them are: Nature park Biokovo, Lastovsko Otocje, lake Vransko, Kopacki rit, Papuk and many others.