Croatian islands where time stands still

When you are thinking about your ideal summer holiday, are you picturing a hidden oasis with magnificent blue sea, completely separated from the city hustle? If you are looking for Mediterranean as it once was, you’ll definitely find it on these Croatian islands:

Silba is a small island west of Zadar, often called the "Gate of Dalmatia", as well as the “Island of Love”. During the year, excluding the tourist season, it has less than 300 inhabitants. This calm and peaceful island with its 15 square kilometres might be small, but it hides some of the most beautiful beaches on the Adriatic, surrounded by crystal clear sea. The biggest peculiarity of the island is that you won’t find cars on it, since they are prohibited here. So, what to do if you find yourself in Silba? Relax, bring a couple of good books, enjoy its natural beauty exploring it by bike or on foot, and, of course, dive in its blue sea.

Lastovo is an island of the dream-like beauty in the heart of the Adriatic, and one of the least light-polluted places in the world. That’s why it is called the “Island of Crystal Stars”. It is located 14 km south of the island of Korčula and is the remotest inhabited island in the Croatian part of the Adriatic. Due to the distance from the mainland, on Lastovo you will feel as if time stands still, and truly enjoy the moment you are in. It is an ideal destination for anyone looking for true rest and relaxation. Here you can explore its pristine nature and rich cultural sights - from old stone buildings and churches to intangible heritage such as “Lastovski poklad” - a than 500 years old carnival that has been declared a Croatian cultural intangible asset.

Zlarin is a small island on the Dalmatian coast near the town of Šibenik, with only 284 inhabitants outside the tourist season. This green island with a total the surface of 8.19 km² will enchant you as soon as you enter the port, naturally protected from the south and northeast winds, which is why it attracts many sailors. As on Silba, cars are prohibited on Zlarin, but see it as an advantage. It is only a 25-minute boat ride from Šibenik, and once you land there, it will take you back to your childhood when you carefree walked the streets, rode bikes, explored and simply enjoyed every moment. The most recognizable cultural heritage and centuries-old specialty of Zlarin is coral farming. The people of Zlarin have been hunting and processing corals since the 14th century.  So, if you find yourself on this beautiful island, make sure you bring back at least one memory in the shape of handmade coral jewellery.

Would you like to explore these amazing islands the local way?