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Cres The problem with visiting an archipelago like that of Croatia is that there’s always another island, bay or peninsula on the horizon, beckoning you to explore it. Naturally, however, time is limited. And if you spend your whole vacation hopping from one island to the next, you may miss out on discovering what’s right under your nose. The island of Cres is a perfect antidote: large, but contained, it offers every possible diversion that people flock to Croatia for – beaches, outdoor recreation, water sports, historical beauty, nightlife, fine dining, etc. – but it’s all on one, relatively large island.
Those who love to take on new places and explore every last inch of them will find that Cres offers plenty of terrain to call one’s personal playground. Those who like relaxation, however, will find some of the vistas here simply unmatched, and the white powder sand a pillow-like cushion to call “bed” for a full day of sunbathing. This is because the island juts out and much of the coast looks back inward toward the mainland eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, but the view is broken up with purple, blue and green islands that rapidly change colors over the shimmering emerald-violet-red-orange sea during sunset.
Cycling through the Cres countryside is highly recommended. There are various places to rent bikes, and once you set off you’ll be met with incredible vistas from various points throughout the island’s circumference. You’ll also do well to stop off and talk to the locals, who tend sheep in pastures demarcated by crumbling stone fences dating back to the Roman Empire. Many will be willing to sell you olives, baked goods, fresh goat cheese or local wine, all custom made.
One of the most famous attractions on Cres is the colony of Griffon Vultures, birds of prey colored with a bulky body and an extraordinary collage of white and pastel tans and browns. Also check out the Valun ruins. The town of Cres itself is incredibly relaxed, although it does sport a nice nightlife and a good selection of fine restaurants because of the visitors who rent apartment on Cres, coming here to avoid the crowds and soak in the slower pace of island life in Croatia. |
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