cres

Cres is an island in the northern Adriatic Sea, Croatia. It is part of the Cres–Lošinj archipelago in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County and is the second-largest Adriatic island by area, covering about 405 square kilometers. The island runs roughly 66 kilometers in length with a narrow profile, and its interior is a mix of karst landscape, pine and oak forests, and a rugged coastline with numerous coves and beaches. The Osoršćica mountain rises to about 510 meters, forming the island’s highest point.

History and settlement on Cres date back to prehistoric times. Over the centuries the island was part of various regional polities and trade networks, and in the medieval period it aligned with the Republic of Venice. In more recent history Cres was under Austro-Hungarian rule and later Italy, before becoming part of Croatia after World War II and remaining so after the 1991 independence.

Settlements and access: The main town is Cres, located on the western coast. Other settlements include Lubenice, Nerezine, Martinscica, Beli, and Porozina, the latter being a ferry port with routes to the Croatian mainland. The island is served by ferries from the mainland, and road connections link its towns and villages.

Economy and tourism: Traditional activities include fishing, olive growing, and wine production. Tourism has grown in recent decades, highlighting the island’s historic stone architecture, beaches, hiking trails, and scenic villages such as Lubenice.

Nature and protected areas: Parts of Cres lie within protected areas, including Osoršćica Nature Park, which preserves coastal habitats and the Osoršćica ridge.