Cres | Croatia’s Emerald Island Paradise
For discerning yacht charterers seeking an authentic Croatian adventure, Cres delivers. This destination offers pristine coves, beautiful wilderness, and a unique island rhythm. Cres offers a kaleidoscope of experiences.
The relatively untouched island has just a few sleepy waterside resorts, remote bays, and beaches. It’s green in the north and barren in the south. The island has more sheep than people, and it is sparsely populated. It’s no wonder that roast lamb is the island’s specialty.
The best time to visit Cres is from May to October. The weather is warm and sunny during this time, and the island comes alive with activity.
Outdoor Activities in Cres
Exploring Uncharted Coves
Glide along the dramatic coastline, discovering hidden havens like Valun Cove, a paradise of turquoise waters and lush greenery.
Anchor off Punta Križa, a secluded haven with pristine beaches. Breathe in the salty air and feel the sun warm your skin as you revel in the island’s beauty.
Hiking & Biking Adventures
Cres isn’t just about beaches. Trek through the fragrant Osorščica Forest, a botanist’s paradise teeming with endemic flora and captivating hiking trails. Cycle through the rolling hills and reward yourself with a sip of local Malvazija wine at a charming konoba.
Spelunking Wonders
Go spelunking in the mesmerizing Beli Kamik Cave, a labyrinthine world of stalactites and stalagmites. Explore its hidden chambers, each dripping with history and whispering tales of ancient secrets.
Ziplining in Beli
Zip Line Beli offers an exciting flight over the sea from the perspective of the white-headed griffon. The zipline rises to 35 m above sea level. Then, down through the olive groves, the harbor, and over the sea, it stops at the cliffs at the end of the beach.
Visiting the Blue Grotto
Close to Lubenice, you can swim in the Blue Grotto in Zanje Bay. Inside the grotto, beautiful blue light reflects on the ceiling. It is certainly something to see, especially in the late afternoon.
Cres Cuisine
Cres promises a feast for your senses, both on board your yacht and in its charming villages.
Fresh Seafood
No yachting adventure is complete without indulging in the local bounty. Savor the catch of the day at a waterfront konoba, the scent of grilled fish mingling with the salty air. Try freshly caught fish at the waterside MaMaLu in Valun.
Local Favorites
Sample homemade pasta with truffles, a fragrant ode to Istrian gastronomy. Feast on Cres lamb at Konoba Bukaleta, in the hilltop village of Loznati, just outside of town.
Sample local olive oil. It has a peppery kick, which is a unique taste of the island. In Valun, discover the island’s culinary heritage at the charming Konoba Kod Anice. At this restaurant, generations of chefs have perfected traditional dishes.
Cres Culture
Cres offers a captivating blend of past and present, enriching your journey with every step.
Wander through the cobbled streets of Cres Town, a fortified gem brimming with Venetian architecture and historical treasures.
In Osor, see the Osor Archaeological Collection museum, which displays Roman stone carvings and ancient coins.
Explore the Cres Museum, home to ancient shipwrecks and historical wonders.
Visit the captivating Church of St. Mary of the Sea in Valun, a testament to the island’s artistic legacy.
Immerse yourself in the island’s spirit at the Cres Summer Music Festival. The festival is a vibrant celebration of music and culture held in July and August. Witness traditional folk dances, sample local delicacies, and soak up the infectious energy of the island’s community.
Beyond the Ordinary | Unique Cres Activities
- Starlit Serenity: Anchor near Punta Križa for a night under a tapestry of stars, away from the light pollution. Experience the magic of the island bathed in moonlight, the gentle waves lapping against your yacht.
- Hidden Gems: Seek out hidden treasures like the abandoned village of Beli, a ghost town whispering tales of a bygone era. Explore the freshwater Lake Vrana, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Cres offers endless opportunities to discover the unexpected, adding an element of adventure to your yachting journey.
- Rare Birds: Visit the Griffon Vulture Rescue Center in Beli. These enormous birds, now quite rare, nest in the seaward cliffs and can live for 40 years.
Marinas and Anchorages in Cres
ACI Marina Cres. A beautiful 460-berth marina close to Cres Town. Amenities include bathrooms, restaurants, a grocery store, laundry, ATM, and free Wi-Fi.
Martinscica. The town is a popular stop for yachts on their way to the south because it has a protected harbor.
The southeast end of the island has numerous anchorages.
