Skradinski buk

Skradinski buk is the most famous waterfall complex in Krka National Park, formed on the Krka River in central Dalmatia, in Šibenik-Knin County, just a few kilometers from Šibenik and directly above the small town of Skradin.

What exactly is this place?

Skradinski buk is a cascade made up of numerous travertine barriers over which the Krka River tumbles as it reaches the lower part of its course. Travertine is a sedimentary rock that forms in calcium-rich water - over thousands of years, its gradual deposit built up the stepped barriers that the water now spills over. The whole area lies within Krka National Park, the seventh national park established in Croatia, proclaimed in 1985. The park was created to protect the Krka River and its valley, and to serve scientific, educational, cultural, and tourism purposes.

How do you get there?

Skradinski buk sits right above the town of Skradin, one of the main entry points to the park - visitors typically reach the falls by tourist boat sailing up the river from there. The other well-known entrance, Lozovac, lies closer to the main roads coming from Šibenik. Within Skradinski buk itself, wooden boardwalks and footpaths run along and across the riverbed, letting visitors get close to the cascades without stepping into the water.

What will you see?

The main draw is the cascade itself - a series of smaller and larger travertine barriers, with water splitting into multiple channels and pooling into basins along the way. Wooden walkways cross and follow the river, offering close-up views of the falling water from many angles. Old watermills still stand nearby, evidence of how the river was once put to practical use by the people of Skradin. The surrounding area is covered in the lush, moisture-loving vegetation typical of karst waterfall ecosystems.

One important note for anyone planning a visit: swimming in the waters of Skradinski buk has been prohibited since 2021. The ban was introduced to protect the fragile travertine formations, which had been degraded by years of bathers.

When should you visit?

Krka National Park sees the largest crowds during the summer months, when Dalmatia draws the most tourists overall, but that is also when the paths and boardwalks around the falls are busiest. Spring and early autumn tend to bring a stronger flow of water in the river while the park itself is noticeably quieter than at the height of the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Skradinski buk located? Above the town of Skradin, on the Krka River, inside Krka National Park in central Dalmatia, a few kilometers from Šibenik.

Can you swim at Skradinski buk? No - swimming has been banned since 2021 to protect the travertine barriers from further damage.

How do you reach the waterfalls? Most commonly by tourist boat from Skradin, or on foot from the Lozovac park entrance.

What is the travertine that forms the cascades? It is a sedimentary rock formed from calcium dissolved in the Krka River's water, which, deposited over thousands of years, built up the stepped water barriers visible today.