We reached the Plitvice Lakes National Park at about 3pm. It was extremely hot and crowded. In addition we found out that after 4pm they offer a discount on entry tickets and you can save up to 30€ for a family of three. In summer the park is open until 8pm so we would have enough time to explore. Anyway, after COVID Ksenia is not fit for long walks in hot weather. Considering all this, we decided to change our plans and come back the following day. We also hoped that on Monday evening the park would be less crowded. 

We returned to the highway and went on to explore the Cetin Castle. Well, it used to be a castle, but that was long ago. Wikipedia claims that there are some indications that a settlement existed there in the times of the Roman Empire. The fortress was finally abandoned in the beginning of the XIX century. However, the remains of the fortress walls and a tower are still there. We find old ruins fascinating and never miss an opportunity to visit another site.

Traditionally fortresses were built on the top of a hill or a mountain, so they usually come with a great view. Defenders could see enemies from afar, and enemies would think twice before climbing that high.

However, today Cetin Castle is easily accessible. The last part of the road is unpaved, but our fully loaded city sedan handled it easily.

The access to the fortress is free and there are no facilities. There were no crowds either. At 4pm on a June Sunday we had the whole fortress (well, the ruins) for ourselves. Cetin Castle is definitely worth visiting, if you happen to be nearby.