Cres & Lošinj Travel Guide: Kvarner, Croatia
Cres and Lošinj are two islands in the west of the Kvarner Bay, connected at Osor by a small swing bridge. Together they offer unspoiled nature, quiet coves, medieval villages and lively harbour towns. If you're looking for peace and untouched scenery, this is the place for you.
Cres: wild nature and griffon vultures
Cres is one of the largest islands in the Adriatic and still very natural. In the north, dense forests grow, while in the south stone walls, sheep pastures and olive groves shape the landscape. Griffon vultures live on Cres and nest on the steep cliffs. In Beli, you can learn more about these impressive birds. A special natural phenomenon is Lake Vrana, a large freshwater lake in the middle of the island.
Lubenice, Cres Town and Osor
The village of Lubenice sits on a rock high above the sea – the view down over the bay is one of the most beautiful in the Kvarner region. Cres Town has a pretty harbour with a Venetian feel, lined with cafés and fish restaurants. In the little town of Osor, right by the swing bridge, you can stroll through lanes full of sculptures and old walls.
Lošinj: the island of vitality
Lošinj is known for its mild climate and the many medicinal plants that grow here. In Mali Lošinj, the largest town, you can stroll along the harbour, while Veli Lošinj is a picturesque little fishing village. Dolphins live in the waters around Lošinj, and in the Museum of the Apoxyomenos you can admire a famous ancient bronze statue that was found in the sea off Lošinj.
Beaches and coves
On both islands you'll find countless pebble and rocky coves with crystal-clear water, many of them reachable only on foot or by boat. Around Čikat Bay near Mali Lošinj, pine forests reach all the way down to the sea.
Food and specialities
Cres lamb and the island's olive oil are well known. You can also enjoy fresh fish, seafood and herbs from Lošinj.
Getting there
To get to Cres, take the car ferry from Brestova on the mainland to Porozina, or from Valbiska on Krk to Merag. You can reach Lošinj by road across Cres and over the bridge at Osor.
Below you'll find all the beaches, sights, restaurants and tips for Cres and Lošinj – sorted by category and shown on the map.