Galovac

Galovac is one of the Upper Lakes in Plitvice Lakes National Park, sitting at an altitude of 582 metres above sea level. It covers roughly 12.5 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 24 metres, making it one of the deeper basins in the park's chain of sixteen lakes. Galovac lies right in the middle of the Upper Lakes section, framed by beech and fir forest, and counts among the more picturesque stops along the visitor trail.

What can you see at Lake Galovac?

The main draw here is the string of waterfalls spilling from the lake's edge down toward the lower basins. Galovački Buk is a cascade system where water tumbles from Galovac over a tufa barrier more than 20 metres high, feeding into Milanovac and Gradina lakes below. Right next to it stands Veliki Prstavac, the second-tallest waterfall in the whole park, known for the force and height of its drop. The lake's own shoreline feels calmer than the crowded viewpoints near the Lower Lakes' big waterfall, so a walk along its wooden boardwalks offers a quieter stretch of the visit.

How do you get to Lake Galovac?

The easiest approach is from Entrance 2, from where the trail winds through the Upper Lakes, including a short boat crossing over Lake Kozjak. The path connecting Galovac to the neighbouring lakes runs on wooden boardwalks over the water and tufa formations, giving close-up views of the cascades and the lake's clear, turquoise water. This section sees noticeably less foot traffic than the Lower Lakes, making it a good choice for a calmer part of the itinerary.

When is the best time to visit?

The Upper Lakes area, Galovac included, looks impressive year-round, but the waterfalls carry the most water in spring and early summer, after snowmelt and seasonal rain. In autumn, the beech forest around the lake turns gold, creating a striking contrast with the turquoise water. In winter, parts of the park's walking network may be partially closed, so it's worth checking current conditions before a visit.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Galovac large compared to the other Plitvice lakes? It covers about 12.5 hectares, making it one of the larger basins within the Upper Lakes group, though Kozjak remains the largest lake in the entire park.

What waterfalls can you see near Lake Galovac? The best known are Galovački Buk and the neighbouring Veliki Prstavac, considered the second-tallest waterfall in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Which entrance is best for reaching Lake Galovac? The shortest route starts from Entrance 2, with the trail running through the Upper Lakes and a short ferry crossing over Lake Kozjak.

Is the trail around Lake Galovac difficult? No — the paths and boardwalks are mostly flat and well marked, suitable for most visitors, though they can get slippery near the waterfall spray in peak season.