Murter: Island Settlements, Shipbuilding and Colentum

If you are looking for a holiday apartment, the four main settlements can serve as specific place names to guide your choice. Some of the features described are clearly associated with Murter or Betina: Colentum is near the present-day settlement of Murter, and the Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding is in Betina. Jezera and Tisno are also among the island’s main settlements. For more information, you can also explore Murter.

Cycling routes and archaeological traces

There are ten cycling routes of varying lengths on the island of Murter and in the mainland part of the Municipality of Tisno. They range from easy to moderately difficult; six of the routes are on the island. This means you can make cycling one of the possible focuses of your trip and take into account when planning your day that the routes span both the island and the mainland part of the municipality. The routes vary in length, giving you flexibility in choosing one without implying a particular riding time.

Another focus for an excursion is ancient Colentum, near the present-day settlement of Murter. Its remains are at the foot of Gradina Hill. Today, Colentum is an archaeological park with viewpoints, walking paths and an archaeological beach. Those interested in historic sites will find a range of features to explore individually: archaeological remains, paths and viewpoints. The church in the cemetery of Murter and Betina is also a cultural monument. It stands on the ruins of Colentum and is the oldest church in this cemetery.

Betina’s shipbuilding tradition and Murter’s culture

In Betina, the local shipbuilding tradition is brought to life at the Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding: a documentary about Betina’s shipbuilders is screened continuously, offering insight into the highlights of this tradition. The Betina gajeta is another link to the art of boatbuilding. The skill and artistry involved in building it have been recognised by the Croatian Ministry of Culture and protected as part of the intangible cultural heritage of the Republic of Croatia. Visitors interested in craftsmanship and maritime culture can give these aspects particular consideration when choosing where to stay.

The Latinsko idro regatta is also part of Murter’s maritime tradition. It takes place every year at the end of September. The date offers a recurring seasonal reference point for trip planning; the regatta itself connects local heritage with a specific time of year. The old Srimač, now called Staro selo, offers another cultural perspective: its architectural and urban ensemble is distinguished by its location, street network and building typology. Alongside the history of shipbuilding, the focus therefore also includes the layout of a historic settlement.

Regional cuisine and interests

Lamb produced in the Kornati Islands and seafood are recommended for the Kornati area. This culinary connection to the wider region complements the themes of culture and activity with a selection of regional food. It takes the focus beyond individual settlements to the area of the Kornati Islands.

Murter and Betina are specific places associated with Colentum and the shipbuilding museum, respectively; Jezera and Tisno complete the island’s four main settlements. This lets you tailor your search for a holiday apartment to the places and experiences you would like to discover.

For the broader travel overview: Croatia.

More destinations

More places in the same travel destination:

Zadar County, Dugi Otok, Krapina-Zagorje County, Zagreb County, Karlovac County, Kvarner Bay, Dalmatia.