Hiking Trails

Silba is a long, narrow island in the Zadar archipelago, in northern Dalmatia, and it is one of the quietest of the inhabited islands in the Adriatic. The island has very few vehicles, and it is a place where people walk and cycle along sandy paths between stone walls, which is why the trails on Silba are best understood as a network of old island paths rather than a set of formal, signed hiking routes. They offer an easy way to see the island, its pine woods, its fields and its coastline.

The island is among the most wooded in the region, with dense Aleppo pine and holm oak woodland and aromatic Mediterranean shrubs such as rosemary, sage, myrtle and strawberry tree. The ground is a mixture of limestone and sand, and the paths are mostly soft underfoot. The vegetation keeps temperatures a few degrees lower than in open areas, which makes walking pleasant even in summer, though you should still carry water. Birds live in the woods, and in spring and early summer the scents of the herbs and flowers fill the air.

A network of old paths links the village of Silba with the beaches, the chapels and the headlands. Many are lined with dry-stone walls that mark the boundaries of old fields and pastures, and they give a sense of the work of generations of islanders who cleared the stone and farmed the thin soil. The walks are generally flat or gently undulating, and range from a short stroll of half an hour to circuits of an hour or two, so they suit all levels of fitness. The Chapel of St. Anthony and other small churches are good objectives, and the island's high point, where a stone tower stands, gives a view over the sea and neighbouring islands. The village itself has a charming atmosphere, with houses of sea captains, a simple harbour and a few restaurants serving fresh seafood.

The sense of remoteness is the main appeal. Silba is a place to slow down, with long days of swimming, walking and eating fish, and few distractions. The beaches are small and sandy or pebbly, and the sea is very clear. One of them, called Zrće in this guide, is not to be confused with the famous party beach on Pag. The island has limited services, so bring cash, sun protection and supplies, and book accommodation early in summer.

The ferry from Zadar takes a couple of hours, so plan your timetable carefully. Wear sturdy sandals or shoes, and carry a map or phone. The island suits walkers, cyclists, families and couples who want quiet. Allow a day or stay overnight.