Brijuni Islands National Park

Brijuni, which is a paradise garden in the sea, has an inherently special magic. The protected island kingdom with two large and twelve smaller islets, is separated only by a wide channel from the Istrian mainland just outside of Pula and Fazana. From here, ferries depart daily, in summer almost hourly, to Veli Brijuni, the largest island, which has the only publicly available access. The crossing takes about 15 to 20 minutes and provides an opportunity to enjoy a unique view of Fazana and to see the enchanting beauty of Brijuni from the water. In most cases, visitors book a guided tour of Fazana, which costs around 50 to 210 Kuna (depending on age and season) that includes both the crossing and the park entrance, a tour with the electric railway across the island and through the Safari Park, a visit to the cultural monument and the Tito exhibition. Of course Veli Brijuni is also connected with other places on the mainland by ferry, such as with Pula, Porec and Rovinj. In addition, there is also the opportunity to experience the islands from the water during a boat tour that lets guests take a dip in the sea. If you arrive at and like Veli Brijuni, there are a few things to keep in mind for your stay. Namely, the island does not allow vehicles and only bicycles and electric cars run - conventional cars and motorcycles are banned here for nature conservation reasons. Parking is abundant in Fazana. Parking costs currently (as of 2014) about 4-5 Kuna per hour. To explore the varied and fantastically beautiful Brijuni island by boat, you should note that the waters around the islands belongs to the National Park and docking is only allowed in the harbor of Veli Brijuni.

Nature and Culture in Brijuni National Park

The National Park Brijuni, especially Veli Brijuni, is a great curiosity in some ways. On the karst-green islands with pebbly and sandy coves, the typical Mediterranean maquis is displayed, as well as mighty olive trees, oak trees, and artificially constructed parks with lawns and woods. This mix of original nature with the artificial-created world, among other things, constitutes the charm of Veli Brijuni. Here, where Tito spent up to six months a year and where illustrious guests, such as movie stars and high-profile politicians stay, there are many animals and plants which are endemic to the area and which are threatened in other parts of Croatia and the Adriatic Sea. During an excursion on the island, ancient olive trees and mighty oaks, also holly and myrtle, arbutus and pine, eucalyptus, cypress, redwoods and palm trees provide welcoming shade. It is then not hard to believe that a 1,600 year old olive tree is included as on of the island's attractions: alongside dinosaur tracks, Roman ruins, magnificent villas, the bird sanctuary in a saline and the Ethnology and Safari Park, which Tito had built.. Children are particularly enthusiastic about the drive through the park and the chance to see antelope, elephants, llamas, ostriches, zebras and domestic animal species such as the Istrian ox and sheep. In the wild, during a walk through the the Veli Brijuni woods, you may encounter numerous rabbits, deer and mouflon. Many species of birds have chosen the  Brijuni islands as their home (or at least choose to make a welcoming break here) and attract bird-watchers from all over the world. Incidentally, even under water Brijuni National Park`s wildlife is diverse, colorful and varied. Sponges, corals, crustaceans and sea urchins, sometimes even rare turtles and dolphins can be found in the waters around the islands. In the rich fishing grounds, you can find among others, Dragon head and Seeal, bream, mullet and sole.

Recreation in Brijuni National Park

In Veli Brijuni alone there is so much to discover that a night in one of the luxurious hotels and picturesque villas is certainly worthwhile. The car-free island hosts day trippers as well as  overnight guests who walk the wonderful streets on foot, bicycle or use scooters. Small, hidden coves are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For diving, however, permission must be obtained by licensed diving centers. At these diving centers, it is also possible to book a tour through the underwater trail on the east side of Veli Brijuni. Archaeological ruins and natural treasures are just waiting here, wanting to be discovered though mask and snorkel. Underwater charts and a built-in snorkel audio guide give divers the unique experience to see the ruins of a sunken Villa. Those who prefer to go ashore to explore can book, for example, the tour "beads of archeology". This tour will let you explore, among others, the Byzantine castrum, the Basilica of Saint Maria and a Roman country villa.

Tired of sightseeing and historical breaks? For a bit of variety, try some sports. Most notable is the internationally renowned, perennially playable 18-hole golf course in the northeast of the island. Tennis fans can improve their condition at one of four tennis courts, or work with a trainer to improve their abilities. And not to forget: It is also possible to get married in Veli Brijuni amongst the magnificent scenery of the Church of Saint. Germanicus. Individual excursion activities, luxurious hotel rooms and a ride on the exclusive ship "Veli Brijuni" will make the most beautiful day of your life even more memorable.