Brijuni Islands

The Brijuni Islands, located off the western coast of Istria, Croatia, are an archipelago of fourteen small islands, with Veliki Brijun the largest and most developed. The national park, established in 1983, covers an area of approximately 7.5 square kilometers and is known for its biodiversity, historical significance and natural beauty. The islands have a long history, having been inhabited since prehistoric times, and the Romans built luxury villas and olive estates here, while the Byzantines set up a fortified settlement. In the 19th century the industrialist Paul Kupelwieser bought the islands, cleared swamps and turned them into a health resort, and in 1893 the bacteriologist Robert Koch came to deal with malaria. They gained special prominence in the 20th century when they became a favorite retreat for Josip Broz Tito, the former leader of Yugoslavia. Tito transformed the islands into a luxurious getaway for political leaders and celebrities, leaving behind a legacy that still attracts visitors today, and the Tito Museum, in the park, shows photographs and gifts from his guests.

One of the main attractions on the Brijuni Islands is the Brijuni National Park itself, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractive landscapes. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, which include forests, meadows and rocky coastlines, teeming with wildlife. The park is home to over 250 species of birds, a favorite with birdwatchers. One of the highlights of a visit to Brijuni is the Safari Park, where visitors can see animals such as zebras, llamas and various species of deer roaming in a natural setting. Many of these animals were gifts from foreign leaders, among them elephants given by India’s prime minister, and descendants of some of them still live on the island. Another notable attraction is the ancient Roman villa at Verige Bay, which shows the islands’ historical significance, with well-preserved ruins of a large complex by the sea.

The Byzantine Castrum, a fortified settlement of the 6th century with the remains of a basilica, adds another layer, and St. Mary’s Basilica is a notable site within it. Visitors can also see the dinosaur footprints on the islands, left about 100 million years ago on the shore, a reminder of the area’s prehistoric inhabitants. The Olive Tree on Brijuni, said to be about 1,600 years old, is still bearing fruit, and it is one of the oldest in the Mediterranean. The islands also have several beautiful beaches that are good for swimming and sunbathing.

Getting to the Brijuni Islands is relatively easy, with regular ferry services operating from the coastal town of Fažana. The ferry ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes, offering views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands. Once on the islands, visitors can explore on foot or rent bicycles to follow the various trails and paths, and a tourist train runs along the main route. Hotel Neptun, on Veli Brijun, gives guests a chance to stay overnight and enjoy the calm after the day visitors have left. Booking tickets in advance is advisable in summer, as numbers are limited.

The best time to visit the Brijuni Islands is during the spring and summer months, particularly from April to August. During this period the weather is warm and sunny, which makes it good for outdoor activities and exploration. The islands can also be visited in the autumn months, when the crowds are smaller and the temperatures remain pleasant. In conclusion, the Brijuni Islands are a unique destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history and outdoor adventure, and with their landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage, the islands are a good getaway for those who want to experience the best of Croatia's coastal charm.