Three years ago, my girlfriend and I embarked on an unforgettable camping trip to Cres, Croatia. The memories of that adventure still linger, and as I prepare for my upcoming trip to Norway, I felt compelled to finally share some of the stunning pictures I captured during our Croatian escapade.
A Hot and Sweaty Journey
The drive from Vienna to Cres is relatively short, taking around seven and a half hours. However, our unfortunate mishap was the broken air conditioning in my car, turning the journey into a hot and sweaty ordeal. Nevertheless, we persevered and managed to catch the ferry from Krk to Cres just in time. The invigorating ocean breeze was a much-needed relief.
Camping Slatina: A Tranquil Oasis
In search of peace and solitude, we opted for Camping Slatina as our home base on the island. Nestled amidst pine trees, this campsite offered a picturesque setting. With two hammocks at our disposal, it was the epitome of relaxation. What made our stay even more enchanting was the fact that the campsite’s lights were switched off at 10 pm. The absence of light pollution allowed us to revel in the breathtaking view of the Milky Way—a stargazer’s dream come true.
Oh, and I mustn’t forget to mention another appealing aspect of this idyllic location: nudist beaches. Croatia, known for its nudist-friendly culture, provided us with the freedom to embrace nature and enjoy the tranquility of secluded shores.
Exploring the Surroundings
While our days mainly revolved around indulging in the simple pleasures of eating, swimming, snorkeling, and stargazing, we also ventured out on small excursions to Cres and Losinj.
Cres, the island’s main town, captivated us with its charm. Hidden within its narrow alleys were an abundance of restaurants and cafés, serving delectable, fresh seafood at affordable prices. Take your time to explore the town and immerse yourself in its ambiance. And for those who appreciate the finer details, I’ve included a gallery of close-up shots to satisfy your curiosity.
A day trip to the neighboring island of Losinj proved to be equally rewarding. Historically, Cres and Losinj were once a single landmass. However, in their wisdom, the Romans constructed a canal between the two islands, reducing travel time in the Mediterranean. Our visit to Mali Losinj was followed by a journey to the southernmost part of the island. A small footpath led us down a hill to a spectacular bay accessible only on foot or by boat.
By the way, if you continue along the trail through the woods, you will be rewarded with a culinary delight. At the end of the path lies Restoran Balvanida, a charming tavern renowned for its mouthwatering fish and lamb dishes. The secret to their exceptional flavors lies in the fact that they breed and nurture their own animals on the surrounding farm. It’s an experience not to be missed!
Conclusion
Cres, Croatia, offers a unique camping experience filled with natural beauty, tranquility, and culinary delights. From the serenity of Camping Slatina to the charming streets of Cres and the hidden gems of Losinj, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this enchanting island. Embrace the spirit of adventure and discover the secrets that Cres has to offer.
