In competition from 54 tourist villages, Rastoke in Croatia was declared the most beautiful in the world in 2023. It only takes an hour and a half to drive from Zagreb.
Although it was declared the most beautiful tourist village in the world on October 19, 2023, Rastoke seems to have remained one of the best-kept ‘secrets’ of Croatian tourism even in the past year.
It is a real gem, the beauty of which was recognized last year by the esteemed UNVTO, a specialized agency of the United Nations that deals with global tourism. They have been declared a top tourist destination and have become one of Croatia’s most powerful assets for tourism, which does not only last from May to October.
Namely, Rastoke is almost even more beautiful during autumn and winter, and this potential is still not fully utilized. In other words, forget about big crowds – you will still be greeted by peace, nature and tranquility next to the waterfalls.
Also known as ‘little Plitvice’, they are most often visited on the way to the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park, but they are well worth visiting for at least one full day.
Rastoke are located near the town of Slunj, in Karlovac County. They are located at the place where the river Slunjčica flows into the river Korana, creating fairy-tale waterfalls, rapids and ponds. They are known for their traditional mills, beautiful natural landscapes and old stone houses, in whose surroundings it is easy to forget all worries and stress.
They are only an hour and a half away by car from Zagreb (about two and a half hours from Rijeka, and three and a half hours from Split), which makes them an ideal destination for a day trip during autumn, when the Rastoke are painted in magical yellow, orange and red color.
Be sure to include a walk along the Slunjčica River, known for its enchanting turquoise hue, in your daily plan, and for those who want excitement, the local offer offers options such as kayaking adventures and whitewater rafting, bike rental and sport fishing, reports tportal.
