The second largest Croatian island is a part of the Lošinj archipelago and provides a variety of opportunities for a holiday. The island has traces of life from the Stone Age, but the most abundant archaeological remains come from the Antique and Roman eras. As well as the town of Cres, the larger settlements of Lubenice, Beli, Valun, Osor and Martinščica should also be mentioned.

The town of Cres is situated in a protected bay on the west side of the island, and is notable for its gothic buildings. Its town walls are well preserved, and you can find the best exhibition about the island’s history in the town museum. Beli is a place with forty inhabitants, and has a museum in the old town. Difficult to access, and separate from the rest of the island, it is as if Beli still lives in another historical time, protected from technology and the fast pace of life.

There is an international educational-research eco-centre on the island that takes care of Cres, in particular its ornithological reserve, which is home to a number of rare types of bird.

Valun is a fishing village, most well known for the Valun board (which had the first Glagolithic script engraved on it). Tourists like to stay here because of the leisurely atmosphere and excellent fish specialities, which are prepared in a special Valun style.

Lubenice is a fortified village opposite Valun, located on the top of a cliff. A former military fortification, it today hosts a variety of cultural events such as classical music concerts.

The little town of Osor also has a tradition of cultural events that are held in the ancient atmosphere of the town centre. You can stay in private accommodation or in the auto camp, and take a swim in one of the swimming areas or nearby-secluded coves. The old fishing village of Martinšćica is hidden in an impressive bay whose natural beauty is just being discovered. You can stay here either in the private accommodation, or in one of the new auto camps.

Of the other interesting places on Cres, we draw attention to the Vrana Lake, a crypto depression, whose drinking water supplies the entire island as well as the neighbouring island of Lošinj. A special attraction is the oak tree, which because of its age has been declared a protected cultural monument. The 45th parallel passes over the road for the town of Cres, making it equidistant between the Equator and the North Pole. If you are lover of the animal world, then on Cres you have the chance to see the habitat of the white headed vultures – a protected species that only live on Cres.

Today’s inhabitants will put you up in their own homes or in camps, and will offer you an authentic taste of the natural world and the old way of life.