Plava Grota

Plava Grota is a cave, cool, dark and ancient, with formations shaped over hundreds of thousands of years.

What to know

Plava Grota stands in Kvarner & Istria, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

Book ahead in peak season, and check whether a tour is compulsory, many caves are.

Practical info

• Entry: check the official source before you travel. Prices and opening hours change, and some spots close entirely out of season.
• How to get there: Tap the map above for exact directions. In Croatian towns parking is usually signposted and paid, look for the blue P zones. If you are island hopping, leave buffer time for the ferries.

When to go

Croatia is at its best from May to October. June and September are the sweet spot, warm water, long days, and thinner crowds than high July and August. Winter shows a quieter, cheaper and surprisingly handsome country, especially inland and in the cities.

Photograph by John covers Croatia honestly. Every spot here is real, mapped and free to read. If this guide helped, pass it on to someone planning a trip.