The Islands of Kvarner Bay, Croatia
The Islands of Kvarner Bay are located in the northeast of the Adriatic Sea between Istria and the Croatian coast. This relatively undiscovered part of Europe’s coastline offers scenery that is among some of the very best in Croatia.
Some of the larger islands include Cres, Krk, Losinj, Rab and Pag while many smaller less well-known islands are Union, Susak, Ilovik, Plavnik, Prvic, Sv. Gregory and Goli Otok.
Each is very different and many serve up stunning beaches, pretty old villages, historical buildings, pristine natural environments with plenty of great weather, fresh seafood, and welcoming people.
The islands of Kvarner Bay are truly unique and just waiting to be explored.
Cres
Cres, the second largest island in the Adriatic is a nature lover’s dream. Lush Mediterranean forest, Vransko lake, and an island rich in plant life.
In the northern part, with cold, dry winds gusting south in winter, the flora is typically sub-Mediterannean with oak and sweet chestnut woods. In the south, which is protected by the hills, are evergreen coniferous forests.
Everywhere there are wild herbs that flavor the local food as well as wildflowers in the pastures and thousands of olive trees. Over ninety species of birds nest on the island. As well as eagles, falcons, and owls, there is a dedicated ornithological reserve for the white-headed griffon vultures which nest on rocks next to the sea.
Krk
Krk – a town and port on the island with the same name. Krk is also the managerial, administrative, cultural, and religious centre of the island.
This former bishop’s town has an extremely significant architectural monument – a cathedral, whose origins reach back to the 6th century. The old town, which can be entered through four town gates is surrounded by walls, which guard the valuable memorial heritage; there is a Roman basilica leaning on the cathedral, there is a Frankopan castle from the 12th century as well as many profane buildings (Kotter house, Kanonička house) with valuable markings from the different periods. In terms of the many towers, the oldest is the four-cornered tower of Kamplin built in the 12th century.
The newer, urban part of the town expanded outside the walls a long time ago. There are luxurious villas and summer residences that during the season offer tourists comfortable accommodation. The pretty pebble beaches, the many cultural entertainment events (the Krk fair that has an attractive maritime battle and others), an excellent offer of food, and the possibility of trips (Biserujka cave, Košljun island, and others) make Krk an attractive tourist destination.
Losinj
Of all the islands of Kvarner Bay, Lošinj is one of the best. This rich island has been a tourist trap since 1897 when Austrians and Hungarians visited for its clean, unspoiled landscape and air. The forests are ideal for cycling and walking trails, which wrap around secluded beaches. The best beach is in Mali Lošinj, a pebbly and rocky cove protected by the forest and excellent for windsurfing. Mali Lošinj is a picturesque port town, where you can walk along the seaside promenades, and enjoy the pretty bays, gardens, and natural forest.
The neighbouring smaller town Veli Lošinj has the feel of an old fishing village, with a castle, a Venetian tower, and many lovely gardens.
Rab
Rab is a lush green haven with small towns and secluded beaches. King Edward VIII and his lover Wallis Simpson visited in 1936 while sailing nearby. Rab has some wonderful beaches, including the popular and beautiful Rajska Plaza in Lopar – considered one of the best beaches in Croatia.
Pudarica Beach near Barbat is known for being a party place with its beach parties and nightclubs. The lovely Komrčar forest park is full of exotic trees, flowers, birds, and butterflies, with lots of bike and walking trails. Inland Rab is also speckled with vineyards, olive groves, and crops.
The main town on the island, Rab, is a medieval walled city with churches, palaces, Roman-style bell towers, and an interesting cathedral.
Pag
Pag used to be most famous for its cheese called Paski Sir which is made from sheep’s milk and also for its lace making.
However, in recent times, the town of Novalja has become one of Croatia’s top music venues for clubbers coming from all over Europe.
The other main town is Pag town on what is a very barren yet strangely appealing island which is connected to the mainland by a bridge.
Contact Information
For further information on taking a trip to the islands of Kvarner Bay or any part of Croatia, contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Croatia National Tourist Board.
