Travertine terraces, Skradinski Buk, Krka National Park, Dalmatia, Croatia

A Dalmatian sweet spot

This Croatian region is best known for a spotty local dog breed, and perhaps second-best known for the aquamarine waters of its long Adriatic coast. What many don't know about Dalmatia: Its inland holds turquoise-tinted treasures too. Krka National Park is one of several national parks packed into Dalmatia, preserving not saltwater shore but the ecosystem and scenery of the river Krka. Next to this crossing over the Krka, a roiling cascade called Skradinski Buk tumbles over 17 travertine terraces. It's the largest of seven stepped waterfalls throughout the park, and an even more impressive spectacle up close than from here on high.