Koromačna bay

Koromačna is a quiet coastal spot on Cres Island, a long, narrow island in the Kvarner Gulf that is known for its wild landscape of stone walls, sheep pastures, holm oak woods and clear sea. Much of the coast is rocky and steep, and bays like Koromačna offer a calm place to swim among cliffs and scrub, away from the main resorts. The setting is wild rather than polished, and the appeal lies in simplicity.

Cres is among the largest islands in the Adriatic, and its settlements are small. The main town, Cres Town, has a harbour ringed by pastel houses, a medieval gate and a loggia in the main square, and the village of Valun, on the other side of the island, is well known for the Valun Tablet, an early Glagolitic inscription. Much of the island's economy has long been based on sheep farming, olive growing and fishing, and Cres olive oil and lamb are celebrated. The coast around Cres Town has several beaches, among them Mali Bok, Veli Žal and Sveti Ivan, as well as Plava Grota, and Koromačna Bay is one more option for a day by the sea.

The bay is a sheltered inlet with clear, calm water and a rocky shore. There are few built facilities, so visitors should bring water, food, sun protection and footwear for rocks. The sea is good for swimming and snorkelling, and the shallow, rocky edges are home to small fish and sea urchins, so water shoes are a good idea. Vegetation is typical of the Mediterranean: pine, holm oak, juniper and aromatic herbs such as sage, which perfume the air in summer. Birds of prey and gulls patrol the cliffs, and the island is also known for griffon vultures in the north.

Access is by car or boat from Cres Town, and the bay is a short walk from the road, so it is simple to reach, though parking is limited at peak times. Boats of different kinds shelter in the bay in summer, and the water can be busier on weekends. Because small bays can become exposed in wind, it is wise to check the forecast, especially when the bura blows from the northeast.

The bay suits swimmers, families and anyone who wants a quiet corner of the island without the crowds of the main beaches. Combine it with a stroll through Cres Town in the evening, where the harbour cafés serve fresh fish, or a trip to Valun.