Experience complete relaxation in the embrace of the nature of the Dalmatian Hinterland. The Red and Blue Lakes, the Biokovo Skywalk and the Kotišina Botanical Garden are just some of the places where you can go on a fairy-tale adventure
As of 2024, Croatia has another UNESCO Geopark – the Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark. This unique area, located in the heart of Dalmatian Hinterland, is characterized by exceptional geological, biological and cultural diversity. It stretches between the Biokovo Nature Park and Imotski Region (‘Imotska krajina’), forming a unique geological and geomorphological location.
Geological treasure of the Dinaric karst
Geological Treasure of The Dinaric Karst
The Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark is an example of geological diversity and richness of the Dinaric karst. It features a number of karst phenomena such as sinkholes, caves and pits.
The Biokovo Mountain and its highest point, Sveti Jure (1762 m), really stands out because it dominates the landscape and offers spectacular views. Biokovo has been a nature park since 1981, known for its geomorphological diversity, which includes a number of natural wonders such as limestone pavement (‘škrape’), caves and deep pits, the most famous of which are Amfora, Mokre noge and Njemica, the latter being Bikovo’s deepest with a depth of 863 meters.
An abundance of flora and fauna
The flora of this area is very diverse due to the specific combination of Mediterranean, boreal and Central European flora elements. Although it looks harsh and bare at first glance, Biokovo is full of life, including rare and endangered species.
More than 1,500 plant species grow here, including numerous endemics such as the silvery dwarf harebell and the Biokovo Centaurea. Biokovo’s fauna is equally fascinating. Numerous animal species live on the mountain, many of which are rare and protected. Mouflons and chamois, which were successfully reintroduced in 1964, are particularly impressive.
More than 180 species of subterranean animals have been found in the caves of Biokovo, many of which are endemic. Additionally, around 400 species of butterflies live in this area, which represents one of the richest entomological habitats in Croatia.
The Karst Wonders of The Imotski Region
On the other hand, the Imotski Region also has its natural gems. The fertile Imotski Field is a unique phenomenon in the karst world, with the Vrljika River flowing through it. This river, which the locals call the ‘feeder of life’, is important for the region’s agriculture.
In addition, the Red Lake, known for spotted minnow, an endemic species of fish that lives here, has unique hydromorphological features, colour and appearance. Its reddish rocks create a frightening but impressive scene.
The Blue Lake, on the other hand, is known to change colour depending on the season and water level. Both lakes are integral parts of the Geopark, with many visitors coming to enjoy their natural beauty.
Skywalk and Kotišina Botanical Garden
One of the Geopark’s newer attractions is the Skywalk, a spectacular horseshoe-shaped viewpoint, standing at 1,228 meters over a precipice. This modern tourist attraction allows visitors to ‘walk among the clouds’ and enjoy a spectacular view of the Makarska Riviera and Dalmatian islands.
The Kotišina Botanical Garden, founded by Friar Jure Radić, is located on the coastal slopes of Biokovo. This garden is not your typical botanical garden, but an enclosed part of nature that preserves the natural forms of vegetation with indigenous flora. The diverse flora in a small,16.5-hectare area includes plants ranging from typical Mediterranean to mountain plant species, while the garden is a place for research, preservation and popularization of Biokovo’s flora.
A Global Natural Phenomenon
The Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark is not only a site of exceptional natural and cultural value, but also an example of how the potential of natural resources can be used for the benefit of the local community thanks to a joint initiative.
Its geological diversity, rich flora and fauna, and spectacular landscapes make it an unmissable destination for lovers of nature and culture. As Croatia’s third UNESCO Geopark, the Biokovo-Imotski Lakes Geopark additionally contributes to the recognition of Croatia on the global natural heritage map, preserving and valorising this exceptional landscape for future generations.
Text Ida Vickota
Photos Biokovo Nature Park, Ivo Pervan & HTZ / Ivo Biočina, Zoran Jelača, Julien Duval
