Zlarin

Nature and coastal landscape

Lokvica is Zlarin’s only freshwater habitat and ensures the survival of amphibians. A total of 36 bird species have also been recorded there, including 25 strictly protected species. This makes Lokvica a place with a distinctive ecological role and a remarkable diversity of bird species. Lokvica is also part of Zlarin’s cultural heritage. If you are interested in nature and cultural heritage, this place offers a different way to experience the island than its trails or coastline.

Zlarin has pebble beaches that are naturally sheltered from all winds. If you would like to include beach time in your stay, you can factor this coastal feature into your choice of destination. Together with Lokvica and the trails, it offers options for different holiday interests, without any one of them having to define your entire stay.

Trails, hiking and climbing

The Put Borovice trail is accessible by bicycle and is also suitable for long walks through unspoiled nature. Put Klepca is more demanding and particularly attracts hikers. The two trails therefore differ in their stated uses and level of difficulty: Put Borovice appeals both to cyclists and to those who enjoy longer walks; Put Klepca is the more distinctive choice for hiking. If you are travelling with people who have different activity interests, these differences may help you plan your days.

For climbing enthusiasts, Poturičini kruzi offers a rock face up to 18 m high, with 21 established routes across two sectors. The grades range from 4a to 6c. The climbing area is reached via a marked circular trail measuring 3.6 km in total. Outside summer, it is suitable for climbing all day; in summer, climbing is possible early in the morning or late in the evening. These seasonal time slots are a practical difference to consider when planning your day. On Zlarin, longer trails, more challenging hikes and a clearly described climbing offer are therefore available as different ways to enjoy active days.

Corals, churches and island history

At the Hrvatski centar koralja Zlarin, an exhibition is devoted to corals. It uses virtual and augmented reality, audio recordings, and educational and traditional exhibits. The exhibition spans four floors of the Kažerma building. Organised groups can arrange a visit and book a time in advance; expert-guided tours are available in Croatian and English. If you are planning to visit as a group, you should take these arrangements into account.

The churches also reflect different periods of construction: the Church of Our Lady of Rašelj was built in 1448, and the Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary between 1735 and 1740. The Church of St. Mary on Zlarin was built on the foundations of a Late Antique structure. Zlarin’s Leroj dates from 1839 and is considered a tourist attraction on the island. These different historical landmarks give culture enthusiasts several ways to learn about Zlarin’s history.

Zlarinska regata krstaša, a traditional regatta for cruising yachts held every April since 2003, is part of the island’s maritime tradition. Because of its geographical location, Zlarin has always had the strategic role of guarding the St. Ante Channel and protecting Šibenik. Kayaking is also promoted as a distinctive way to explore Zlarin; interested visitors can contact Peak and Paddle Croatia.

More destinations

If you would like to consider destinations beyond Zlarin: Donje Polje, Goriš, Žaborić, Kaprije, Zaton, Perković, Grebastica and Dubrava kod Šibenika.

For the broader travel overview: Općina Šibenik.