Bay Zavratnica

What every visitor should experience is the romantic and unique Zavratnica Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in Croatia, accessible from the village of Jablanac via a 1 km long walking path. This bay extends deep into the mainland and is a must-visit destination for all visitors. It is 900 meters long and between 50 and 150 meters wide. Today, Zavratnica is a protected area, and due to its unique features, it has been declared a geomorphological natural monument. In spring, the protected Illyrian iris blooms and colors the high canyon walls above the bay in shades of purple.

This is also where Vjenceslav Novak, one of Croatia’s greatest writers, spent time finding inspiration for his works.

At the far end of the bay, at a depth of about 8 meters, you can explore a sunken German WWII ship.

Zavratnica is home to 129 plant species, of which 100 are native and 29 non-native.

In the early 20th century, the upper trail with a viewpoint was built, as well as the seaside promenade. Around that time, Zavratnica became a hidden summer retreat for the Viennese and Prague elite.

The blue hues of the sea in the bay contrast with the gray tones of Velebit’s rocks, the green of sparse vegetation, and the dark shadows of trees that move across parts of the path on warm summer days. It’s no wonder that the beauty of Zavratnica captivated Vjenceslav Novak, who found inspiration here for his literary works.