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The Croatian coast is dotted with dozens of beautiful islands and each one is known for its unique range of sights and attractions. There are more than a thousand Croatian Islands and they vary in size remarkably. Some are just rocks in the sea while others are being described as paradise on earth and hidden gems of Croatia. However, only 66 of these islands are inhabited and a majority of these offer a plethora of entertainment options for the tourists – from nudist beaches to all-night dance parties. This article presents an overview of the most sought after islands in Croatia.
1. Hvar
This is easily the most luxurious of islands in Croatia and the sunniest of all. The island is famous for its lavender fields and the aroma of the herbs such as heather and rosemary. The rolling hills, the beautiful beaches, the magnificent vineyards and the pulsating nightlife make Hvar the perfect island getaway of Croatia. If you are more the adventurous type of tourist, you can take a water taxi and go to the Devil`s Islands (Pakleni archipelago) or just walk to the southern cliffs for a hearty lunch at the local winery.
2. Vis
The Vis Island was basically a military base and foreigners were barred from entering until 1989. But today it is a popular summer getaway and known for the mouthwatering seafood dishes. Fishing trips are also organized where tourists are shown how to clean and cook the catch. The organic wines are found here in abundance and it will be a shame if you do not taste this unique variety. The 12 – room Hotel Paula is very popular with the foreigners for its comfortable stay and affordable price.
3. Krk
Krk, also known as the “Golden Island” is one of those islands in Croatia which are very near to Western Europe. The island is easily accessible as it is connected to the mainland via a bridge. The wide array of landscapes presented on this island is a delight for the tourists. The northern part of the island is almost barren and not much of interest but the southern portion has gentle bays. The fertile fields of this island are utilized for growing grapes. The most popular activities on Krk include paragliding, scuba diving and jet skiing.
4. Cres
Cres is one of the largest islands in the Adriatic Sea which is known for its pebbled beaches, gentle bays and the crystal blue waters. The freshwater lake of Vrana is the most notable attraction in Cres. In fact, this is one of the deepest freshwater lakes in Eastern Europe. You can wander in the primeval forests of the island, look at the beautiful Venetian mansions or simply sample the country’s most delicious lamb dishes which are available locally.
5. Rab
The island is located to the northern coast of Croatia and is noted for the wide array of botanical life that is present here. The Komrcar Park is the most notable attraction here as it houses a huge number of plants and trees including the 100 year-old agave. As there are more than 300 freshwater springs on the island, Rab is often referred to as one of the greenest islands not only on the Adriatic Sea but in the whole world. The island can be visited at any time of the year as the summers are warm and the winters are mild in nature.
6. Brac
This is the biggest of the islands in Croatia and in fact in the Adriatic Sea. Brac is located just off the coast of Split. The rolling hills, the fig trees and the clear waters make Brac one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia. There are many sights and attractions on the island but one should not miss the Dragon’s Cave, the island museum and the hugely popular Zlatni Rat beach. The Vidova Gora Mountain is the tallest mountain in this part of the world and easily worth a visit. The popular activities include diving, windsurfing and visiting the pebble beaches.
Island-hopping in Croatia is very easy and affordable as most of the big ports are located near the airports. The catamarans and the car ferries run throughout the day between most of these islands. Many tourists prefer to visit one of the many charters in mainland Croatia and join a group excursion or hire a boat. This is a very exciting and affordable way to see the islands as you have the full liberty of exploring the places on your own.
About the author: Romeo Demes is a passionate writer and blogger from Croatia, the tourist hotspot in Europe. Besides the islands mentioned in the article above, he recommends tourist to visit the beautiful Old Town of Dubrovnik and natural paradise of Plitvice Lakes as well.
