Winter Hiking in Croatia – Manojlovac Waterfalls

It has been a while since we visited this specific hiking path. Last time I was here was in 2010 with our friends from US: https://atomic-temporary-6581387.wpcomstaging.com/2010/05/26/hiking-in-croatia-manojlovac-waterfalls/ Manojlovac is a popular spot but still quite hidden from the masses that visit Skradinski buk near Skradin. We come here often but mostly for the panorama overlooking the waterfalls but it is becoming a popular hiking destination in Croatia.

The Path to the Waterfalls

This time we decided to check what the NP Krka did with the path. Back in 2010. it was wild and for true adventurers. Here is more on the path at NP’s own web site: https://www.npkrka.hr/en_US/posjeti/krka-hike/pjesacka-staza-manojlovac/

Turn left for the waterfalls
Turn left for the waterfalls

This past few weeks have been quite cold. Proper winter. And the temperatures have been going below zero for many days. Especially here. In area around Knin. So, when the first good weather was in the forecast, we started planning a hiking trip.

Path to the Manojlovac waterfalls
Path to the Manojlovac waterfalls

The path is done properly. It follows the old trail to the mills at the waterfalls. This was a popular mill in the area with several remains of the buildings still standing. Now hard working villagers are replaced by tourists looking for a great hike in Croatia.

Down the path
Down the path

The waterfall is always impressive. The winter even adds to its power when the snow melts and some parts are still frozen.

Manojlovac waterfalls
Manojlovac waterfalls

Manojlovac Waterfalls

The Manojlovac waterfall is the highest and most spectacular waterfall on the Krka River, located

The Manojlovac waterfall is some 20 km away from the source of the Krka River and boasts the title of the highest and most stunning waterfall of the river. Standing at 60 m tall and stretching 500 m long and 80-100 m wide, the waterfall features a series of tufa barriers, with the highest reaching 32 m.

The large waterfall’s long, extended beards and curtains result from the tufa forming moss.

The Manojlovac waterfall offers a breathtaking view, which Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife Elizabeth of Austria (also known as Sissi) enjoyed during their visit in 1875. An inscription on the bedrock at the viewpoint above the waterfall attests to this.

At the waterfalls
At the waterfalls

Additionally, there are several small caves one can see here. And even peak inside.

Cave at Manojlovac
Cave at Manojlovac

Hiking Along the Lake

Back to the crossroads, there is a path that takes us along the cliff and offers great views. In the distance, Promina mountain can be seen. Snow is still present on its very peak.

Promina in the distance
Promina in the distance
Hiking along the path
Along the path

This part of the path is quite scenic and follows a massive cliff. On top of the cliff, in the Roman times, lived the folks of the town of Burnum. Former Roman military camp became a major center in the area. However, everything came to a halt in the 6th century. The last mention of Burnum is found in Procopius as he describes the conflicts between the Byzantine and Gothic armies in Dalmatia, at the beginning of the Byzantine-Gothic War (535-555). Procopius refers to Burnum as a polis or city in that passage. After the defeat in 537 in the battle near Scardona, the Gothic army retreated to Burnum and began restoring the old fortifications of the military camp. From Burnum, the Goths set out again towards Salonae (Solin) and suffered another defeat probably never to return to Burnum.

Winter Hiking at Manojlovac

There are numerous great places for winter hiking in Croatia but National Park areas hide some of the most beautiful ones.

hiking Along the path
Along the path

There are several lovely features of this path like great views and some narrow spots.

Hiking at Manojlovac along the massive cliff
Hiking at Manojlovac along the massive cliff

It is nice being back. However, the unspoiled and unique trail is now gone. It has been adjusted for tourists and it lost part of its magic. You can see my original post what it looked like here. But, it is a nice addition to the National Park nevertheless.

Hiking under the rock
Path continues along some unique formations

The path stops at one point but it, actually, continues along the cliff and one can get to the ruins of the Roman Burnum with a bit of effort. Next time. While warmer months bring beautiful foliage and everything is so green and lush, winter hiking definitely has its charms.

And what better way to end your day than with some delicious lamb on a spit?

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2 Comments

  1. Anna says:

    When I get back to Croatia there are a few hikes I would like to try. This one looks wonderful too!

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