Tourist Center Marko

The heart of Tourist Centar Marko is its busy restaurant, which has been in operation since 1989. The main building has several small rooms above the lobby and restaurant, and there are two rustic, wood-and-stone buildings with terra-cotta roofs that house additional "villa" rooms. With a playground and space to run around, it has potential for families with kids, and it can be a convenient stop for tourists traveling through Croatia between Zagreb and the coast. But for a place so off the beaten path near Plitvice Lakes National Park, there's actually a lot of asphalt surrounding the buildings, and the trees are more of a backdrop on the hills behind.  

The hotel is located in a quiet, isolated area, but it's easily accessible right off the main road. There's nothing within walking distance and reaching nearby villages and their grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants requires a car. Plitvice National Park is a 12-minute drive away, though it's much farther to lakes, waterfalls, and other natural attractions inside the park. The village of Rastoke is 15 minutes away by car, but the closest big city is Karlovac, a 65-minute drive from the hotel. Expect a two-hour drive to the airport in Zagreb.  

Tourist Centar Marko has 18 guest rooms occupying the main building and two annexes. The older, main building units have twin or double beds, with simple decor in need of some updating, and small tables with chairs or stools. White plaster walls with yellow or orange accents add some brightness, but they don't make up for the tiny, dreary windows that don't let in enough natural light. There's AC and free Wi-Fi, but kettles and mini-fridges are missing, and some rooms have older, tube-style TVs. Also, some units have two twin beds pushed together instead of doubles. Larger Triple and Quad Villa Rooms in the annexes have newer amenities, like flat-screen TVs, but many have the same dated look. Upgraded rooms generally have more contemporary decor, with wood floors, seating areas with couches, and desks, along with private balconies. Bathrooms are small, with aging tile and stall showers. All have hairdryers, but toiletries are missing. 

Amenities are a highlight at this property, with enough on-site features to make for a comfortable stay. The hotel's restaurant and bar serves local cuisine, such as ham that's smoked on-site, along with lamb and veal dishes prepared under a traditional baking lid. Breakfast is available for an extra charge. The bar serves up espresso drinks in addition to alcoholic beverages, and there's plenty of covered seating on an outdoor terrace.

There's also lots of outdoor activities to choose from, including tennis and badminton courts, a small pool with a sundeck, and a small playground. However, the fitness room is tiny, with just one cardio machine and some weight-training equipment. Bikes are available to rent, and there are walking and sightseeing tours that can be arranged for an extra charge. Minimum stays may be required to use all facilities without incurring extra fees. Free Wi-Fi throughout and on-site parking is included.