The picturesque harbour of Veli Lošinj

The island of Lošinj extends far into the Kvarner Bay on the Croatian Adriatic coast. Right in the south-east, almost at the end of the island, lies the picturesque town of Veli Lošinj. The old town, with its colourful house facades, is clustered around the natural harbour in a sheltered bay, surrounded by pine forests. The harbour entrance and old town are dominated by the massive nave of the parish church of S. Antonio Abate and its separate bell tower. Built in the 15th century, what we see today is the Baroque facade from the reconstruction at the end of the 18th century. Besides the architecture, the interior of the church is particularly worth seeing for its valuable paintings.

Like Mali Lošinj, Veli Lošinj has been a health resort since the end of the 19th century and attracts swimmers, water sports enthusiasts and hikers. The path from Mali Lošinj to Veli Lošinj along the rocky coast is well worth the effort; the southern tip offers many more trails, e.g. up to the chapel of Sv. Ivan, which offers a great view. Numerous excursion boats depart from the harbour of Veli Lošinj for day trips to the islands of Ilovik or Sv Petar and the many beautiful swimming bays such as Krivica Bay. Dolphin watching tours are also offered by the local Blue World Adriatic Dolphin Project.

Especially in the evenings, the outdoor tables at the restaurants around the harbour basin fill up. Some of the guests arrive by boat and moor directly in front of the tables at the harbour wall. A delicious scent of fish and grilled food then wafts from the kitchens.

More pictures in the Croatia gallery.