Mljet National Park is a beautiful and protected area on the northwest part of Mljet Island in Croatia. It covers 5375 hectares of land and sea, and it was declared a national park in 1960. It is the first attempt to preserve the original ecosystem of the Mediterranean.
The main attractions of the Mljet National Park are the two saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero (Large Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake), which stretch for about 4 kilometers. In the middle of Veliko Jezero, there is a small island called Melita or Sveta Marija (Saint Mary), where you can see a 12th-century Benedictine monastery and a café/restaurant. You can reach the island by boat from both sides of the lake.
The Mljet National Park is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm in high season and from 9 am to 5 pm in low season.
Mljet National Park entrance fee is 125 Kuna for adults and 70 Kuna for children and students in high season, and 70 Kuna and 50 Kuna respectively in low season. Children under age 7 can enter for free. The ferry ticket to Sveta Marija Island is 30 Kuna for a return trip.
You can explore the Mljet National Park by walking, cycling, kayaking, or swimming. There are well-marked paths around the lakes and through the pine and bay woods. You can rent a bicycle or a kayak at Pomena, Polače, or Mali Most (the narrow channel that connects the two lakes). You can also hike up the hills to enjoy the stunning views of the park and the sea.
If you need to shop for basic items, you can find a market in Pomena. There are also several restaurants and hotels in Pomena and Polače, where you can stay overnight or enjoy local cuisine.
Some tips and prohibitions for visiting the Mljet National Park are:
- No motor vehicles are allowed in the park, except for electric cars that you can rent at Pomena or Polače.
- No fishing or hunting is allowed in the park, except for authorized scientific research.
- No camping or lighting fires is allowed in the park, except for designated areas.
- No littering or damaging the natural environment is allowed in the park.
- Respect the flora and fauna of the park and do not disturb or feed the animals.
- Follow the instructions and signs of the park staff and guides.
Mljet National Park is a place where you can experience the beauty and tranquility of nature. It is also a place where you can learn about the history and culture of Mljet Island and its people. It is a place worth visiting and exploring.
