Posted by Zirje is a small island in the central part of the Adriatic Sea, which belongs to Croatia. It is the most remote inhabited island on the Croatian mainland and has about 100 inhabitants. Zirje is known for its natural beauty and rich history dating back to ancient times.
The island of Zirje is about 15.43 km² and belongs to the Sibenik-Knin County. The island is about 22 nautical miles from Sibenik, the nearest town on the mainland. Zirje has two main settlements. The small villages with the same names Zirje and Mali Zirje. Both settlements are located on the northern coast of the island, facing the mainland.
The island of Zirje looks back on a very long history: the first known inhabitants date back to the 4th century BC from Illyrian tribes. During the Roman Empire, the island was an important centre of olive oil production, and some archaeological remains from this period are preserved on the island. In the Middle Ages, Zyllie was under the control of the Croatian nobility, and several churches and monasteries were built during this period. During the Second World War, Zilije played an important role as a base for Yugoslav guerrillas. The Yugoslav guerrillas used the island as a hiding place and as a base for fighting the occupying forces. After the war, the island served as a military base for the Yugoslav army and was closed to the public for many years. When Croatia declared independence in 1991, the Yugoslav army left the island and it was reopened to the public.
Today, Zirje is a popular tourist destination known for its unspoilt nature, crystal clear waters and secluded beaches. The island is also popular with sailors and boaters who come here to enjoy the calm waters and beautiful scenery. There are several small restaurants and bars on the island serving traditional Croatian dishes and local wines.
One of the main attractions of the island is the Church of St. Mary in the village of Zirje. The church dates back to the 12th century and is one of the oldest buildings on the island. It is known for its beautiful frescoes and is a popular photo motif for tourists. Another popular place is Kula Tvrđava, a 16th century fortress on the west side of the island. The fortress was built to protect the island from pirate attacks and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding sea.
Visitors to Zirje can also take part in a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling and swimming. There are several hiking trails on the island with magnificent views of the sea and surrounding islands. The island also has several secluded beaches, accessible only on foot or by boat, where visitors can enjoy crystal clear waters and unspoilt nature.
The island of Zirje is a hidden jewel of the Adriatic Sea, offering stunning natural beauty, a rich history and a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. It is the perfect place for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the quiet island life.
Zirje Island Beaches
Zirje Island is located in the middle of the Adriatic Sea and is known for its unspoilt nature, clear sea and secluded beaches. Although it is a small island, there are several wonderful beaches on Zirje, each with its own characteristics and beauty. Here are some of the best beaches to visit on the island of Zirje:
Stupica beach. Stupica beach is located on the southern coast of the island and is one of the most popular beaches on Zirje. The beach is a mixture of sand and rocks and offers a beautiful view of the sea and the nearby islands. The water is clean and the beach is great for swimming and sunbathing. There are several small restaurants and bars nearby where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink or meal.
Koromacna beach – Koromavna beach is located on the north coast of the island, near the village of Zhirye. The beach is a mixture of sand and pebbles and is surrounded by pine trees, which provide shade on hot summer days. The water is clear and the beach is ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There are several small restaurants and bars nearby where guests can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink.
Tratinska beach – Tratinska beach is located on the west of the island and is one of the closed beaches of Zirje. The beach is only accessible on foot or by boat and consists of a mixture of sand and pebbles. The beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are no restaurants or bars nearby, so guests should bring their own food and drink.
Muna beach: Muna beach is located on the east side of the island and is one of the most beautiful beaches on Zirje. The beach consists of a mixture of sand and pebbles and is surrounded by rocks and cliffs that form a stunning backdrop. The water is clear and the beach is ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There are no restaurants or bars nearby, so guests should bring their own food and drink.
Pernastica beach – Pernastica beach is located on the west side of the island and is one of the closed beaches of Zirje. The beach is only accessible on foot or by boat and consists of a mixture of sand and pebbles. The water is clear and the beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are no restaurants or bars nearby so guests should bring their own food and drink.
Lucica beach – Lucica beach is located on the north coast of the island, near the village of Mali Zirje. The beach is a mixture of sand and pebbles and is surrounded by pine trees, which provide shade on hot summer days. The water is clear and the beach is ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There are several small restaurants and bars nearby where guests can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink.
Trincel beach – Trincel beach is located on the east side of the island and is one of the most secluded beaches on Zirje. The beach is only accessible on foot or by boat and consists of a mixture of sand and pebbles. The water is very clear and the beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. There are no restaurants or bars nearby, so guests should bring their own food and drink.
