Discover Zlarin: Corals, nature trails and climbing cliffs
Accommodation in Zlarin
Zlarin combines an exhibition about corals with nature trails, pebble beaches and a designated climbing area. Passenger boat line 505 also serves the island: its route runs between Šibenik, Zlarin, Prvić Šepurine and Vodice.
Zlarin at a glance
The PoturiÄŤini kruzi climbing area has a rock face up to 18 metres high, with 21 established routes in two sectors. Grades range from 4a to 6c. The site can be reached via a marked circular trail with a total length of 3.6 kilometres.
The natural landscape includes pebble beaches that are naturally sheltered from all winds, and Lokvica. This area is Zlarin’s only freshwater habitat and helps ensure the survival of amphibians. Thirty-six bird species have been recorded there, including 25 strictly protected species.
What can you experience on Zlarin?
At the Hrvatski centar koralja Zlarin, you can explore the subject of corals in an exhibition spread across four floors of the KaĹľerma building. It combines virtual and augmented reality with audio recordings, as well as educational and traditional exhibits. Organised group visits require advance registration and a reservation. Expert-guided tours are available in Croatian and English.
Buildings and cultural heritage also offer reasons to plan a stay beyond the beach and nature. The Church of Our Lady of Rašelj was built in 1448; the parish Church of the Assumption of Mary was constructed between 1735 and 1740. The Church of St. Marija was built on the foundations of a late-antique structure. Zlarin’s Leroj dates from 1839 and is considered a tourist attraction. Lokvica is also part of Zlarin’s cultural heritage.
An annual event with a maritime connection is the Zlarinska regata krstaša, a traditional regatta for cruising yachts. It has been held every April since 2003. Kayaking is promoted as a special way to explore Zlarin; those interested should contact Peak and Paddle Croatia.
Which trails and activities suit your interests?
PoturiÄŤini kruzi is suitable for full-day climbing outside the summer season. In summer, climbing there is possible early in the morning or late in the evening. The information on cliff height, number of routes and grades can help you assess the climbing area in light of your interests. The marked circular trail to the area is 3.6 kilometres long in total.
The Put Borovice trail is suitable for cycling and also for long walks through unspoiled nature. Put Klepca is more challenging and attracts mainly hikers. When choosing accommodation on Zlarin, you can therefore consider whether climbing, cycling and longer walks—or rather the coast and culture—should shape your stay. The trails described serve different purposes: Put Borovice is suitable for cycling, while Put Klepca is used mainly by hikers.
How does Zlarin fit into your travel plans?
Zlarin’s location has always given the island a strategic role as guardian of the St. Ante Strait and protector of Šibenik. Passenger boat line 505 connects Šibenik and Zlarin with Prvić Šepurine and Vodice. To compare other destinations, you can also explore Kaprije, Donje Polje, Lozovac, Zaton, Danilo Biranj, Bilice, Dubrava kod Šibenika and Grebastica.
FAQ
Which boat line serves Zlarin?
Passenger boat line 505 runs on the Šibenik–Zlarin–Prvić Šepurine–Vodice route.
When is the Zlarinska regata krstaša held?
The traditional regatta for cruising yachts has been held every April since 2003.
What climbing opportunities are available at PoturiÄŤini kruzi?
The area has a rock face up to 18 metres high, with 21 established routes in two sectors. Grades range from 4a to 6c.
What should groups know before visiting the coral centre?
Organised group visits to the Hrvatski centar koralja Zlarin require advance registration and a reservation. Expert-guided tours are available in Croatian and English.
For the broader travel overview: Općina Šibenik.