Topography and a bit of history

The islands of Cres [Cres] and Lošinj are located in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea in the Kvarner Gulf, southeast of Istria. In the past, the two islands were connected in the small village of Osor by a narrow isthmus, which was already dug through by a short canal in antiquity. The archipelago is 99 km long and the island of Cres itself is the largest island in Croatia in terms of area. The island of Cres has 3200 inhabitants, the island of Lošinj 8000, the administrative center is the small town of Mali Lošinj. The highest point is the peak of Gorica (Cres, 648 m). The lowest point is located at the bottom of Lake Vranské (Cres) 68 meters below sea level. The islands are accessible by boat from Istria and the island of Krk.

Monarchs changed on the islands, but the Venetians had the greatest influence on their development. After the First World War, the islands were acquired by Italy and were part of it until 1947. To this day, Italian is the second language of the islanders, and in August the islands are flooded with Italian tourists.

Cres is also a wonderful place for lovers of cycling and hiking. For nature lovers, there are about 300 km of marked hiking trails. Remember: bring plenty of drinking water, appropriate clothing and footwear and do not go off the marked trails (red circle with white center). 

City of Cres - The path of centuries-old olive groves to the church of     Sveti Salvadur

From the town of Cres you can go north on an interesting hiking trail leading through the old lead groves to the churches of St. Salvadur (3.5 km / 1.5 hours) and then Sv. Blaž (+ 4 km / 2 hours). The marked nature trail will acquaint you not only with the history of olive growing and olive oil production. On the way back, go down from the church of St. Salvadur to the sea and return along the coast back to the city. Good shoes needed!

The town of Cres - on foot or by bike to Valun

For more able hikers or cyclists, there is a trip to Valun, a small resort in the bay south of Cres. Of course you can go there by car or boat taxi, but the views from the trail are irreplaceable.

The trail leads around the marina and climbs upwards, from where it goes practically along the contour line to Valun, where it descends sharply to the port (15 km / 4.5 hours). For those who do not aim to visit Valun, we recommend going back about halfway. You will not lose the views. The mountain bike ride there will take you about 1.5 hours. Intended only for more able riders.