September the 30th, 2025 – The most sparsely populated Croatian county might lack human beings, but it is home to 3 glorious national parks, one nature park, and countless animals.

As Putni kofer writes, from over 1000 islands scattered across the Adriatic to the vast, fertile plains, rugged mountain ranges and untouched forests of the interior, Croatia is a land of incredible contrasts and natural wonder. This little country is administratively divided into 20 counties and the City of Zagreb, each of which hides endless natural and cultural treasures that are always worth a detour off the motorway.

While some counties are well-known to the general public and attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, others, less populated and more modest, offer the most authentic experiences to visitors precisely in their peace and silence. One of them is the utterly beautiful Lika-Senj County, which, while being the most sparsely populated Croatian county, also has 3 national parks and a nature park. It will truly delight your eyes and your soul no matter which direction you happen to head in.

peace, quiet, and abundant nature

According to the population estimate for mid-2022, Lika-Senj County has the smallest population in all of Croatia. As stated on the website of the Central Bureau of Statistics, around 42,578 people live in this area, which makes up only 1.1 percent of the total population of Croatia. Lika-Senj County, along with Šibenik-Knin County, is among the nation’s leaders in terms of the share of the older population: as many as 26.1 percent of the people living there are 65 or older. While these numbers may seem modest, or even concerning, they also tell the story of a space in which peace, quiet and a connection with nature exist in harmony.

Located between imposing mountains, dense forests and with interwoven crystal-clear rivers, Lika-Senj County is a true oasis for all those seeking peace, fresh air and an authentic touch with nature. Despite being the most sparsely populated Croatian county, its value lies precisely in what plenty of others can only dream of: untouched beauty and the incredible wealth of strictly protected areas.

Being home to three national parks and one nature park renders it unique. First we have the magical Plitvice Lakes, the oldest and most famous national park in all of Croatia. Then there’s Northern Velebit, home to impressive karst wonders, rare plant species and trails that lead through the silence of the forest to utterly magnificent viewpoints.

off the beaten path

Part of the Paklenica National Park, known for its dramatic canyons and challenging hiking trails, also extends through this remarkable county. We can’t forget the Velebit Nature Park, the largest protected area in the land. Every tree, rock and stream here tells a story thousands of years old.

For all this, the interior of Lika-Senj County is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to get off the beaten track and explore new, authentic paths. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, cycling, wildlife watching or simply want to breathe deeply away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you will find your peace here.


 


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