The island of Cres - Magnificent Nature Intertwined with a Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage
With its head in Istria, its heart in Kvarner, and its toes dangling in the waters of North Dalmatia, the island of Cres is an Adriatic phenomenon like no other. It lies in the Kvarner Bay, and is one of Croatia’s largest islands stretching in an almost linear direction, from north-west to south-southeast, just off the eastern coast of Istria, with which it is connected by the ferry line Brestova (Istria) - Porozina (Cres). Another ferry line, from Merag (Cres), connects to Valbiska on the island of Krk, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Sailing on both lines takes approximately 25 minutes, with each offering a wonderful visual experience.
Cres is where the spirit of the Mediterranean island lifestyle still exists, despite its many modern, and luxurious tourist ammenities. Due to the extremely well preserved natural environment and rich history, it feels as if the entire island is one big, protected nature park. The island is overgrown with Mediterranean vegetation rich in aromatic medicinal herbs and colorful flowers. Olive groves abound, with dense pine and deciduous forests of oak, chestnut, and birch covering the north of the island. This green canopy extends from highest part of the island in the north to the pastures and rocky fields of the south. Near the centre of the island is the freshwater Lake Vrana, which is the iland's most important source of drinking water. The northernmost part of the island, known for its old forests, is almost uninhabited, with its highest peaks rising up to 650 meters above sea level. Well-marked paths allow independent exploration of mysterious forested labyrinths, where you will meet sheep that graze freely, or the occasional turtle, rabbit or deer. This nature book is rich in flora and fauna, and is one of the last natural habitats of the rare griffon vulture.
In addition to magnificent nature, the island of Cres has a great historical and cultural heritage that can be seen particularly in the town of Cres. Most of the settlements date back to the Stone Age and are also marked by the ruins of Liburnian fortifications. The recorded history of the island dates back to Greek and Roman rule, with Venetians leaving their mark from the 16th to 18th centuries. In 1814 the island became part of Austro-Hungary, and later on began to develop a tourist industry catering to the upper classes. The towns that are not located on the coast have footpaths and hiking trails that lead to the hidden bays on the island.
Exploring and discovering the island by sea is a special experience, particularly natural pearls such as the Blue Grotto cave and beautiful Sveti Ivan beach. Boaters will find everything they need for carefree enjoyment of the island's charms in the modern marina located in the bay of Cres. With 440 berths capable of handling vessels up to 50m, the marina is a truly safe harbour even in the face of the strongest winds. The long coastline of the island, rich in numerous bays and beaches, and smaller islets, enables an intimate experience of the sea.
Photo: Ivo Biočina, Zoran Jelača, Goran Ražić
