ISLAND OF CRES

Places on island of Cres

Osor
The true foundation of this town is lost in clouds of legend; many link it with the mythological character of Absirto, brother of Medea, a tragic and at the same time fascinating character of Greek mythology. The city’s oldest stone wall ring dates back to the 9th century A C, according to the date found impressed of pieces that have come to light.

Of note is the city centre with its grand buildings erected around the forum, all of which dating between the 15th and 16th centuries: the Town Hall, the Bishop’s palace, the Cathedral with its stocky bell-tower and the covered Lodge that today houses a museum. Other relics of ancient buildings can be discovered in-between the city’s gardens and orchards. Tourists visiting the area can stay in the city’s campsite or rent rooms in private houses: the area also offers a centre for deep sea diving, shops and restaurants. Numerous traditional events are held right through the year, while the summer calendar of social events also includes the exhibition of the city’s local musical band.

Belej
Characteristic fishing village, Belej is situated on the municipality of Mali Losinj’s most northern border, in the island of Cres. Typical local stone houses inserted between verdant pastures are dotted over the high grounds and these buildings naturally blend into their surroundings, where this area of land stretches into the sea. Here to the east the coastline ends in a steep cliff, while to the west it gently slopes into the sea’s waters. Of note throughout the village are the low lying walls
that once delineated the borders of confining properties.

Ustrine
Further south of Belej, in the island of Cres, is Ustrine. Here the remains of a Roman villa indicate the presence of man in the area right back to ancient times. Today, Ustrine is a village of shepherds and fishermen, situated along the coastline that terminates with a steep drop into the sea and boasting an incredibly stunning panoramic view. Not far from the village centre is a white pebble beach which can be easily reached by means of a asphalt covered road. The lucky tourists that find themselves in this area on a national holiday will surely be serenaded by the town’s local band.

Punta Kriza (Kriza Point)
Situated on the island of Cres’s most southerly edge, Kriza Point is a naturalistic oasis : here the coast is marked by the numerous strips of land that steeply jut out into the sea, small gulfs and bays excellent choices for tranquil moorings. Tourists can camp out in the town’s vast campsite that excels in services such as a post office, shops, bars and taverns, or even rent out a room in one of the nearby village’s private houses.