Ethno Houses Plitvica Selo

Tucked away in a quiet area of the immensely popular Plitvice Lakes National Park, the Ethno Houses Plitvica Selo feels like a step back in time. Although it was built in 2011, everything here was designed to feel like a traditional Croatian village, with several wooden buildings set around a central area with a small plunge pool, gravel paths, and wooden bridges. Each structure is built in the original Lika style, with soaring pitched rooms, all-wood facade and interiors, and stone finishes. The combination of natural materials not only gives the property a strong local feel, but also makes it blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Unfortunately, the charming first impression seems to lead to some disappointment in many cases, with guests complaining of average food, maintenance issues, and overpriced rooms.

The wide array of on-site amenities and overall charm make the Ethno Houses a decent pick for a taste of local life within walking distance of Entrance 3, but those seeking something a tad more contemporary may want to consider Hotel Degenija, which is just a short drive from the Plitvice Lakes National Park’s main entrance. For a little bit less money than the Ethno Houses, guests can stay at the dated Hotel Jezero. Villa Mukinja is as great alternative for those wanting to be within walking distance of Entrance 2, complete with an excellent restaurant and cute rooms. 

The hotel is located in a quiet area away from the more bustling sections of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Entrance 3, a quieter, more secluded access to the park, is just an easy 10-minute walk away, making it an excellent option for those who want to avoid the crowds of the other two main entrances. However, there is no ticket booth here, and tickets must either be purchased at the other entrances, or booked in advance with the hotel. Aside from beautiful nature and a handful of other hotels, there is little within walking distance. The two nearest international airports are in Zagreb and Zadar, each about a two-hour drive from the hotel. Airport transfers can be arranged at the front desk.

Ethno Houses offers 18 cabin-like rooms spread over several low buildings made entirely of wood. Interiors are quaint and cozy, with wood walls, floors, and ceilings, and rustic, handmade furniture. Rooms range from compact single units with well-sized beds to big family-friendly suites that can sleep up to six guests. However, rooms are divided into two main categories -- standard and Deluxe -- each with their own distinctive feel. While Deluxe rooms and suites feel upscale and stylish, with rugs, throw pillows, and a soft-gray palette, standard units have a more rustic, basic feel, with slightly faded orange bedspreads and curtains, and simpler furniture. Unfortunately, maintenance and attention to detail seem to be lacking, with some guests complaining about broken fixtures, unreliable air-conditioning units, and faulty hot tubs. 

Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and electric kettles, though only teabags are provided free of charge. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property. Bathrooms vary in size, but all are outfitted with heated towel racks, hairdryers, and shower stalls. Deluxe Rooms have jetted tubs. Two-in-one shampoo and shower gel are provided in small sachets in all rooms. 

The hotel offers a number of amenities catering to all types of guests, including families with young children. The restaurant is designed in the same rustic style as the rest of the hotel, with wooden floors, walls, and ceilings, and all-wood furniture. The menu offers an array of local dishes, but food gets average reviews, especially breakfast, which many guests find overpriced. Ringed with loungers and cabanas with pillows, the pool offers a nice respite from the heat during the warmer months, while the spa is a great perk for the colder days, with massage cabins, a sauna, Turkish bath, and salt room. The air-conditioned fitness center is small, but features a handful of modern machines adequate for a quick workout. 

The kids’ playroom is unstaffed, but features a few tables for arts and crafts, some games, and toys for different ages. The petting zoo is home to a few animals that kids can feed, and there are pony rides and bike rentals available for a fee. Other outdoor activities include table tennis, badminton, mini-golf, and archery.