Vir

The beaches are mostly in coves, shaded by pine forests and holm oaks. Cycling routes make it possible to cross the entire island by bike; the Vir ring route circles the western and northern parts of the island. Hiking and trekking trails run along the slopes of Barbenjak and Bandira, connected by former fire-service tracks.

Historic sites include Kaštelina Fortress, the archaeological site of Smratina and several churches. Traditional masquerades take place in January and February. In August, Klapa groups meet at Vir third.

The coves and the shade of the pines and holm oaks give the beaches their distinctive setting. The rest of the vegetation is Mediterranean too, comprising dry grasslands and rocky pastures with low-growing vegetation. The sea around Vir is home to numerous molluscs, crabs and fish. Those who focus their stay mainly on the beach and the sea experience a different side of the island than those exploring its trails and historic sites.

For cycling, the different range of the routes is worth noting: the cycling paths make it possible to cross the island, while Vir ring specifically circles its western and northern parts. Hiking and trekking trails run along the slopes of Barbenjak and Bandira. They are connected by former fire-service tracks. The word “former” refers to these tracks; today, the routes are used for hiking and trekking.

Bandira rises 112 metres above sea level. The hill is home to settlement remains and the ruins of the medieval Church of St George. These ruins should not be confused with the present-day parish Church of St George: the church building was erected in 1845 on the foundations of an older church of the same name.

Smratina reveals several periods of history at a single archaeological site. It contains an early Christian, or Late Antique, church from the first half of the 6th century; an early Romanesque church from the 11th or 12th century was later built inside it. The site points to continuous settlement on Vir and to an urban island settlement in Late Antiquity.

The other buildings also offer a glimpse into different periods. The Church of St John the Baptist dates from the 13th or 14th century and is now used as a cemetery church. Villa Lanterna is a renovated historic lighthouse dating from 1881, in the western part of Vir. There are two interpretations of the origins of Kaštelina: the Venetian fortress was probably built at the beginning of the 16th century. Another interpretation holds that construction began as early as the mid-14th century as protection against invading Ottomans.

The traditional Vir masquerades take place in January and February. In August, Vir third is a gathering of Klapa groups, traditionally opened by the local Klapa Puntadura. Vir Night commemorates the island’s return to 89 families on 13 August 1908. The traditional Zadar–Vir cycling race follows a 26-kilometre route to Vir; it is held three times a year, with the first event scheduled for April. In September, the Alpe Adria Jet Ski Tour finale takes place from Friday to Sunday at the sandy Jadro beach. These events vary by season and type, so plan your trip around the event that interests you.

The Kunjka tavern in Vir serves fresh fish, shellfish and other Mediterranean specialities prepared according to traditional recipes. When looking for accommodation, you can consider whether you are visiting Vir mainly for its coastline, trails, historic sites or a particular event. You can also find event information on the tourist information page for Vir.

Is Vir connected to the mainland?

Yes. Vir is connected to the mainland by a bridge.

When do the traditional masquerades take place on Vir?

The traditional Vir masquerades take place in January and February.

Which parts of the island does the Vir ring cycling route cover?

Vir ring circles the western and northern parts of the island.

What period does the archaeological site of Smratina date to?

It includes a church from the first half of the 6th century and an early Romanesque church from the 11th or 12th century, built inside it at a later date.

To the main travel overview: Vir.