Go Hiking in Zadar Region
Close your eyes and take a deep (refreshing) breath. Open your eyes and relax at the sight of untouched nature as far as the eye can see. One of the best ways to explore it and fully appreciate its beauty is to take time and walk, walk, walk. Famous for its extraordinary nature, Zadar region is a truly great place for hiking and reconnecting with nature. From the mountains on the mainland to islands with amazing views, hiking fans can have a fulfilling holiday any time of year. Here are a few suggestions:
Number 1 hiking spot - Paklenica National Park
Due to its forests, amazing geomorphological shapes and rich biodiversity, the area forming Paklenica National Park has been protected since mid 20th century. It’s a place where nature enthusiasts, families, cyclists, climbers, hikers and mountaineers can fully and actively enjoy the wonderful scenery according to their abilities. The hiking trails vary from easy to difficult and most of them lead the visitors through nature with breathtaking views of the mountain and the sea.
Zadar’s ‘garden’ - Ugljan island
Ugljan, an island just opposite Zadar, is known as its ‘garden’ because of the prevailing greenery. Its centuries-old olive groves, traditional dry stone walls and 14th-century St Michael’s Fort on a hill with extraordinary views of the Zadar archipelago are good reasons to go on a hiking tour of several hours. The trail is not particularly demanding, but it’s worth the hike.
Adventure hiking on Pašman island
Pašman island is basically like Ugljan’s twin - with similarities in landscape and a bridge to connect them. Still, when it comes to hiking, this island is famous for a particular race with a touch of adrenaline - škraping race. The trail involves going through sharp rocks (škrapa) and it represents pure adventure and requires certain skills. Apart from more challenging škraping trails, there are some easier paths to follow as well. Again, most of them lead the visitor uphill with a promise of amazing views.
Long walk on Dugi Otok island
Dugi Otok translates as ‘long island’ and the name is justified not only because of its length but it can easily refer to the amount of time needed to explore its diverse and beautiful natural landscape. From the widely-known cliffs facing the open sea to sandy beaches, the best way to get to know Dugi Otok in all its glory is to hike one of its trails leading to peaks such as Orljak (almost 300m).
Moonwalk on Pag island
Famous for its landscape that in some parts resembles the Moon’s surface, hiking trails on Pag island vary from easy to more difficult, but they take the hikers through unique scenery. On their way they get to experience Pag’s countryside, traditional dry stone walls, olive groves and even vineyards.
Take a walk
Regardless if on mainland or the islands, hiking trails generally lead to hill (or mountain) tops. The moment they are reached is particularly rewarding and fulfilling, especially when the chosen trail requires certain effort. That moment is just as special as the one when you come to the seaside after months on the continent, sit on the shore and listen to the soothing sound of waves.
Image source: www.np-paklenica.hr
