Top 5 hidden jewels in the Adriatic Sea Croatia

Croatia – country with more than a thousand islands! Yes, it is known worldwide with this slogan. The indented coastline with a pleasant climate and interesting history is a magnet for tourists. But, most of the tourists usually stay on the coast, in larger cities and on more famous islands such as Hvar, Brač, Pag or Krk. Because of that, a large number of Croatian islands remain in the shadows of the famous ones. To remain in the shadow has its own charms, both for locals and individual tourists. Such islands are smaller, poorly populated and a real treat for those who are eager to enjoy the pristine nature of the Adriatic Sea. We have singled out 5 Croatian islands which are not that famous but are the real jewels of the Adriatic Sea.

 

1. Rab

 

One of the greenest Croatian islands, the island of Rab is located in the northern Adriatic, more precisely in the Kvarner Bay. Known as the island of sun, sand and sea, it is interwoven with over 100 kilometres of pedestrian and cycling trails where you can explore its beauty. The Old Romans called it the „Island of Happiness“ because on the way there you see the only sea and some rocky islands, and on Rab is the total opposite. The town of Rab is recognisable by four bell towers which are located on a small peninsula. During the summer, the streets of Rab host a variety of events, such as concerts, outdoor exhibitions which create a special atmosphere in the streets of the old town. Rab is full of traditions, and a special place in the calendar is occupied by the „Rabska fjera“ which transforms streets of Rab into the stage of a medieval festival where craftsmen show their art and exhibit traditional products at the end of July. The gastronomic offer is rich, and you will enjoy every bite. Whether you try seafood or meat specialities, with home-made wine and Rab cake as dessert, this dinner will remain in your memory forever.

 

 

 

2. Silba

 

Silba is an island located in the Zadar archipelago, and it is known because there are no cars or hotels on it. It is an ideal place for guests who are searching for a peaceful vacation and want to enjoy nature. Pleasant climate affords over 2570 sunny hours per year and with that Silba thrills with its beautiful turquoise coves and a friendly calming atmosphere. Even though it is a small island, here you will find your place under the sun for rest and relaxation. Apart from being an ideal place for a meditation holiday, Silba has many luxurious courtyards, with tall walls and churches. In the past, it was an island on which sailors embarked on ships and went abroad and returned home with great fortune, and this is precisely why the legend about Toreta, the tower in the centre of the island is connected to it. Legend says that one sailor had the tower built so that his beloved can wait for his ship on it. But, after years of waiting, she gave up and married another man. Years passed, and when he finally came back, he came across a group of young girls among whom one looked like his beloved from the past. That was the daughter of the woman which he left in the tower, but love does not worry about years, he married that young girl, and they lived happily for many years. Do not miss visiting this beautiful island of love and spending a relaxing holiday on it.

 

 

 

 

3. Zlarin

 

Zlarin is a small island which belongs to the Šibenik archipelago. Same as Silba, Zlarin is an island with no cars. The inhabitants of Zlarin are proud of the natural wealth of their island and try to keep it as clean as possible. This year they joined a project called „Island without plastic“, and they decided to create an island without single-use plastic, in other words, all one-use plastic like plastic bags, straws, plastic cups and cutlery is to be replaced with environmentally friendly solutions. Zlarin is known for coral hunting, but also for the long tradition of coral jewellery. Since the 15th century, Zlarin inhabitants hunted corals and sold them to Italy. Today, Zlarin masters hand-make jewellery from corals in the same way they did in the past, so, for example, a few days are needed to make one necklace. If you decide to visit Zlarin, enjoy the benefits of the sea, beauty and cleanliness of the whole island, be sure to treat yourself with a piece of timeless coral jewellery. It is ideal for sailors who want to enjoy untouched Mediterranean nature, quiet, sunny days and for those who want to recharge their batteries for that (tough for all) period after returning from vacation.

 

 

 

 

4. Ugljan

 

The Island of Ugljan is located in the Zadar archipelago and is also the closest island to Zadar. Precisely because of that proximity, but also because of its vegetation, it is called the „Zadar Garden“. Throughout history, it was a retreat of noblemen, and rich people and several Roman villas are actually preserved to this day. Ugljan has more than 20km of coastline, unbelievably blue and clear sea and lots of pine forests, which makes it the perfect place for a quiet family vacation. There are beautiful beaches on the island which you can visit even if you are going on a holiday with kids, but there are also some beautiful coves where you can enjoy on a boat in the complete silence of untouched nature. The underwater world of the island is rich in archaeological sites which you can visit with expert guides from the local diving centre. Also, Ugljan has many hiking and cycling trails, which are a great way to tour and explore the whole island. What you cannot miss when you visit Ugljan is certainly the medieval fortress of st. Mihovil from which you will have a breathtaking view of the whole Zadar archipelago. To enjoy Ugljan means to enjoy untouched nature and be close to the popular tourist destination, Zadar, at the same time.

 

 

 

5. Lokrum

 

The Island of Lokrum is located opposite of Dubrovnik. It is a part of one incredible story about land and island communion since ancient times. When we talk about beauty and peculiarity, these two places are truly inseparable, but if we are speaking of their popularity, the public split them apart. There are always many news articles about Dubrovnik, especially after it became a part of the world known series Game of Thrones, but you will rarely ever find an article about Lokrum. Lokrum is not just an entertainment island dedicated to escape from everyday life, it is also meant for getting to know the historical and mystical segment of the Dubrovnik area. The most favourite green destination of many Dubrovnik citizens and some tourists has a mystical story. Everyone in Dubrovnik will advise you not to take anything from Lokrum, not even a feather from a peacock, nor a leaf picked in a botanical garden, because what you take from the island still belongs to the island and it brings bad luck to the new owner. Also, according to the legend, no one can spend a night on the island because the last Benedictines who left the monastery cursed everyone who uses the island for personal entertainment. But since enjoyment during the day is usual, we still certainly recommend you visit one of the restaurants and enjoy local food and drinks and nature.

 

 

 

The islands mentioned above have something in common; they are the intact pearls of the Adriatic Sea. Preserved by crowds, tourism and pollution, they offer the enjoyment of pure nature, crystal clear sea and long walks. Find your own piece of heaven in one of these destinations!

 

To make these islands more available to you, it would be ideal that you rent a boat. You can check out our offer here, and for additional questions, you can contact us by e-mail:
office@asta-yachting.hr or directly via web here.

 

Warning: while visiting these islands, there is a chance of falling in love with the destination!