February 5, 2021 - The Pag Outdoor project brings active tourism on the island to life. 

HRTurizam reports that the island of Pag's tourist boards, in cooperation with partners, launched the outdoor project Pag Outdoor Summer Weekend last summer, or active events held with licensed and experienced trainers in various forms of active tourism.

Thus, on weekends during July and August, a handful of outdoor events are organized throughout the island, such as cycling, Nordic walking, trail running, sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, windsurfing, running, walking, and quad riding.

The project, which was first held last year, was positioned as the best complete outdoor project in a destination. The synergy of all tourist boards on the island of Pag has also shown the importance of branding the whole island as one destination. 

Today, the entire Pag Outdoor project is being raised to a much higher level - with excellent branding of Pag's entire outdoor story.

The event is connected by 4 outdoor activities (bike, trail, climbing, kayaking), but positions them in the absolutely unique Pag natural environment, thus developing tourism on the island in several directions.

In time, the calendar season will extend to at least eight months, just as it will simultaneously give additional content to develop several activities on the island, especially those related to hospitality, gastronomy, and specific agriculture.

The Pag Outdoor project's success is the result of a joint association of the island's tourist boards in Novalja, Pag, Kolan, Povljana, and Stara Novalja on the development of the project, followed by the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Funds were welcome to enrich the spring activities and the introduction of bike standards before the start of the season.

The approved funds also enabled the graphic design of the logo for each segment of the outdoors, which was necessary to continue the promotion and branding of the Pag outdoor project.

In addition to the specific colors associated with the activities, there is a common and strong emphasis on the togetherness of the islands within the project. In this way, Pag joins the best Croatian communities in which the outdoors brings excellent results. Along with Istria, which has a vital role, almost all Kvarner islands have excellent outdoor programs - above all, Krk and Cres, Rab, or Brač in Dalmatia.

“The Pag outdoor project's visual identity showed all the peculiarities of the island with an emphasis on the rarity of Pag, respecting the standards of the regional tourist boards. The fact that this is the only island located in two counties, all its colors show how colorful and distinctive the island of Pag is. What used to be an obstacle in certain situations was turned into a comparative advantage in a graphically interesting and attractive way. I emphasize that the key to the success of the Pag outdoor project was to unite and create a unique destination for the whole island, which we are all very proud of," said Marina Sciran Rizner, project coordinator and director of the Novalja Tourist Board, and added that the project was realized with the efforts of all stakeholders, but also the advice and assistance of numerous external partners, with special emphasis on top outdoor professional Martin Čotar.

"Five years ago, we adopted a common visual destination of the island of Pag, we synergistically present our tourist offer at fairs, and now we have taken big steps into the outdoor future of the island by connecting Pag, bike and trail paths, climbing areas and kayaking at sea."

Last year, the planned project activities were carried out, such as the analysis of the existing trails on the island of Pag, the guidelines for the development of bike and trail paths were defined, and the visual identity of Pag Outdoor was created.

HRTurizam adds that it will take at least another three years for this project to fully come to life and give maximum indisputable results.

Then, Pag Outdoor will surely be one of the most exciting Croatian outdoor platforms. Through this project, Pag will become one of the most desirable Croatian destinations for an increasing number of outdoor fans who can have all levels of excitement - from family gatherings with nature to very demanding adrenaline competitions.

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December 20, 2020 – The 13 winners of the incredibly popular World Meteorological Organization annual competition have just been announced, and two fine pieces of Croatia weather photography are among them. These spectacular images of Croatia weather photography show all 9 Croatian photographs which reached the final in 2020 and all 10 Croatian finalists who similarly stunned the global audience in 2019

Croatia weather photography: the two newly announced winners from the 2020 competition
Photographer: Sandro Puncet Photo taken: Losinj island

Photographer: Zrinka Balabanic Photo taken: Pag island

Thanks to its popularity as a tourist destination, lots of people are now used to seeing beautiful photos of Croatia. Although, the images they usually see are of idyllic beaches, cloudless skies, stunning nature and turquoise blue seas. But, as anyone who knows the country will tell you - and as these photos show - Croatia isn't always like that.

Croatia weather photography: the two newly announced runners-up from the 2020 competition
Photographer: Šime Barešić Photo taken: Drage, Pakostane

Photographer: Mislav Bilic Photo taken: Lapad Peninsula, Dubrovnik

Out of season, Croatia can experience vastly different weather conditions to those advertised in travel brochures and blogs. And, whenever there's a spectacular weather occurrence, usually there's a photographer out there, braving the elements, trying to capture it.

Over recent years, some of the best Croatia weather photography has featured in the annual competition organised by the World Meteorological Organization. 2020 has been no different.

The other five Croatian finalists from the 2020 competition
Photographer: Šime Barešić Photo taken: Drage, Pakostane

Photographer: Sandro Puncet Photo taken: Losinj island

Photographer: Zoran Stanko Photo taken: Geisler Alm, Dolomites, Italy

Photographer: Maja Kraljik Photo taken: Umag, Istria

Photographer: Igor Popovic Photo taken: Rijeka

The winners of this year's competition have just been announced and the two fantastic examples of Croatia weather photography within the top 13 will take their place in the 2021 World Meteorological Organization calendar.

The 10 Croatian finalists from the 2019 competition
Photographer: Danica Sičič Photo taken: Srobreč, Dalmatia

Photographer: Romeo Ibrišević Photo taken: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Photographer: Božan Štambuk Photo taken: Bundek park, Zagreb

Photographer: Miroslava Novak Photo taken: Pribislavec, Međimurje

As well as the two winners, two further examples of Croatia weather photography came in the runner-up category, of which there were 12 in total.

Photographer: Francesca Delbianco Photo taken: Zagreb

Photographer: Ivica Brlić Photo taken: Sava river, Davor, near Slavonski Brod

Photographer: Nataša Šafar Photo taken: Rečica, near Karlovac

Photographer: Romeo Ibrišević Photo taken: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Over 1000 photographs from all over the world were entered in the 2020 competition. The submissions were narrowed down to a final selection of 70 contenders. As TCN reported back at the start of October, no less than 9 examples of Croatia weather photography made it into the final 70, taken by 7 Croatian photographers.

Photographer: Danijel Palčić Photo taken: Pag island

Photographer: Aleksandar Gospic Photo taken: Ražanac

Croatia regularly punches well above its weight in the annual competition, as we can see from these 10 examples of incredible Croatia weather photography that were among the finalists in 2019.

All images courtesy World Meteorological Organisation

November 6, 2020 - Is there a better way to get to know the beauty of Croatia than with physical recreation? To help you successfully combine pleasure and exercise, we present a list of the top 10 best running routes in Croatia.

Whether you are a lover of tranquility, nature, and fresh air, or are amazed by the winding roads along the rivers or the beautiful views from the mountain tops, in these top 10 best running routes, everyone will find something for themselves. From Slavonia and Zagorje, through Istria, Kvarner, and Lika, all the way to Dalmatia, RunCroatia collected the top 10 running routes in Croatia, described and photographed by the running enthusiasts themselves.

1. Bošana, Pag

Running in the company of a flock of sheep

Text and photos: Alan Sinovčić

My favorite running track is on the island of Pag, on the old (mostly macadam) road from Pag to Novalja. The trail starts in Bošana, a part of the Pag town that is very easy to reach – you go north from the city and then take the road by the sea.

About a kilometer after the last houses in Pag begins Bošana, a small secluded place, special for the forest with which it is covered. After about another kilometer and a half, you will reach the end of Bošana where you will notice a sign indicating a special reserve of forest vegetation. There is a small parking lot where you can leave your car and go down a little lower along the way to see the beautiful beach Rozin bok.

The first kilometer and a half runs through the woods along the paved road to Sveta Marija, a place with several houses. After Sveta Marija, the path continues on the macadam. On the left side, there is a very steep path to the highest peak in Pag, Sveti Vid (351 m), and on the right side, there is a view of some wonderful beaches, among which is the beach Paška vrata, and Velebit mountain. After a little over two kilometers, on the right, there is a standard spot for photography and a sign for the 15th meridian that passes there.

Another place with just a few houses follows – Sveti Marko. The trail continues along with many coves and beaches, out of which the 750-meter-long Filino beach should be specially noted. Part of the road to Filino beach is the "hardest" - it is about 500 meters of an easy ascent. This is followed by a slight descent towards the Camp Sveti Duh.

On the left, you will pass an old pit for digging sand, and in that part, you can even expect frequent encounters with flocks of sheep. The end of this part of the trail is windy. First, there is an ascent (arrival at the paved part), and then a descent to the entrance to the camp.

The one-way trail is 7 km long. For those who want more length, I suggest that they run the road Pag – Novalja above the camp and continue on macadam roads to Gajec, an apartment complex near Novalja, which will add another 5 kilometers in one direction.

2. Dramalj, Crikvenica

For early morning lovers

Text and photo: Pero Petra

This trail goes by the sea without big ascents. The best time to go is in the morning because it's in the shade. After one kilometer, you come to Kačjak, a small peninsula that has a trim track and is designed as a sports complex. The view overlooks Krk, Klimno Bay, and the gently sunny completely calm sea in the early morning called „bonaca“. The circle along the peninsula can be extended. You can go back towards the beginning, towards Jadranovo along the new road or towards the beginning and along the coast to Selce.

This trail offers something for everyone. Whoever finds themselves in the Crikvenica town, this route is great. It’s best when you meet a team coming back from a night out!

3. Kamenjak Cape, Premantura, Istria

Where the dinosaurs walked

Text and photos: Domagoj Kranjčec

The Kamenjak peninsula is located in the southernmost part of Istria. The smell of medicinal herbs and salt, the buzzing of bees, and the murmur of the sea on Kamenjak can best be experienced in early spring and late summer. Almost 100 million years ago, dinosaurs walked through Kamenjak, and today in the summer months, it is full of walkers, runners, cyclists, and cars. Cape Kamenjak is full of macadam roads, narrow roads, and bike paths.

A circle of 15-20 kilometers from about 150 meters above sea level can be achieved by connecting Gornji and Donji Kamenjak. If your start is in the center of Premantura (near the church and the tower), head north in the direction of Pula. One hundred meters from the sign to leave Premantura, turn slightly to the left and continue along the macadam road, slowly ascending to the top of Gornji Kamenjak, where there is a large cross.

From this place, there is a beautiful view of Pula and Volme to the north, Pomer, and Medulin to the east and Cape Kamenjak to the south. Head back downhill 100 meters and turn right first to run with a view of the open sea on the west side, and again emerge on the famous path that takes you back to the very entrance to Premantura.

After the sports field, turn right onto the paved road that leads to the official entrance to Kamenjak (house with a ramp). Next, you have several trails to the cape, and my recommendation is to head towards the bay Polje and then along the narrow roads all the time running along the sea to visit the remaining bays to the Safari bar. Here you can share a gravel road with cars or cross the east side of Kamenjak to get back to the center of Premantura and your starting point.

4. Slavonski Brod, along the Sava River

Along the most beautiful Croatian river beach and square

Text and photos: Boris Predmerski

Polojska cesta (Poloj road) in Slavonski Brod, named after one of the most beautiful river beaches in Croatia – Poloj (eng. field), is an unavoidable route for all recreationists and runners. The informal start of the running route is at the Vijuš sports hall complex and the city swimming pools located right next to the Sava River. It has a large parking lot, as well as an excellent plateau for warming up.

The route starts from the pool and goes through the Polojska cesta. The entire length is paved (but you can also run on grassy terrain along the trail), runs along the entire length of the Sava River, more specifically along the beautiful rafting street. Along the route, there is exercise equipment and a skate park.

From the pool to Poloj, the length is 2.5 km. There is a turn on Poloj, with the remark that you can also extend the route (we call it pockets) by circling around the cottages right next to a large sandy river beach. For those who want to spend more time in nature, they can run part of the way through the forest and feel a little trail atmosphere.

On the trail, there are three replicas of old Slavonian backyard water pumps and you do not need to carry refreshments with you.

You return on the same route to the pools where you end up running 5 km. But that's not the end. If you want a longer length, continue along the Sava towards the bridge. Run along the beautiful Sava promenade (quay) to the bridge with a slightly shorter length of 2 km where you make a turn.

Along this part of the road, you will inevitably be accompanied by kayakers and walkers. You will run next to the baroque Franciscan monastery, next to Ivana Brlić Mažuranić Square, the main town square, which in 2006 received the Croatian National Tourist Board award for the most beautiful square in Croatia.

Under the bridge, you can turn back. You will be greeted by anchored riverboats and fishermen on one side, and on the other side by the baroque and magnificent Fortress ship. Going back, you will run less than 10km, but with the aforementioned pockets on the Poloj, you will have a dozen kilometers under your feet.

I mentioned the Fortress ship above –  it is a racing story in itself. In the very center of the city, kilometers circle through the paths of the largest fortified baroque buildings in Croatia and one of the largest in Europe. Running through baroque casemates and fortress tunnels take you back to the 18th century when it was built. A unique "Cross in the Fortress", as well as the "Slavonian Race" which starts and ends in the Fortress, are organized here.

5. Šibenik, promenade Sveti Ante

Perfect surface

Text and photos. Ljiljana Šarić

The route is 5.6 km away from Šibenik and stretches along the seaside, where is the Channel of St. Anthony near the Fortress of St. Nicholas. The path or promenade is used by many, not only because of the beautiful view, but the surface is perfect for running or walking. The Šibenik Triathlon has been held on this track for two years and all participants are delighted.

6. Ludbreg, Crazy Hill Trail route

All the beauties of Ludbreg

Text and photo: Drazen Komes

One of the starting points is the Island of Youth - a small green oasis in the center of Ludbreg bordered by the Bednja River with many lakes, a paradise for animals and fishermen. After running around the Island, you pass by apple orchards, cornfields, and steep vineyards to the forest that abounds in many hidden ravines and streams, and at the last ascent and just before the last descent a view of the whole Ludbreg. The trail is an ideal opportunity to present widely all the beauties of our region, our people, and customs.

7. Mali Lošinj

Outdoor spa on the Island of Vitality

Text and photo: Goran Todorov

Some of the shots are from the trail where a large number of tourists run. In my opinion, that 10-13 km is certainly the most beautiful trail I have ever run, if not the most beautiful, and I have run a lot of them. The sound of the waves, the special scent of the forest, hidden coves, and the song of seagulls. Paradise!

Perhaps one of the most beautiful promenades in the world leads you about 3 km from the direction of Hotel Vespera, through the Camp Čikat, to the old resort of Petrokemija.

Lošinj is also known for its outdoor spa. When you are there and inhale that air, the smells are more special than ever, and the views that reopen after each new bend simply take your breath away.

The trail is arranged and relatively flat and leads you along the sea, next to camps and hotels. There’s a special view all the way and a special atmosphere in the race. After the old resort of Petrokemija, about 3 km away, the paved path ends, but it is possible to run below, but the path is of the lighter trail profile and goes about 2 km in the direction of the city.

8. Otočac

A circle along the Gacka River

Text and photo: Josip Loškarin

Gacka Valley, an hour and a half drive from Zagreb, Rijeka, or Zadar, known for its beautiful river and natural beauty, is an ideal place for walking, running, hiking, or cycling. Members of the racing section of the Otočac Sports Club have singled out an interesting 10 km long road track.

The trail is circular, starting and ending in the City Park in Otočac. It largely follows the river Gacka on both sides of the coast, passing through the mountainous but gentle landscapes of the Gacka Valley. The trail has a total elevation of 74 meters.

Detailed description:

The trail starts in the Otočac City Park (A) in a westerly direction and turns left towards Ban Josip Jelačić Street (B). Then continue straight through Luka Street (C) and further towards the village of Prozor (D) to Prozorski dom (E) where you turn first right and then at the next crossroads before the bridge turn left. You continue straight up a slight hill to Orešković bridge (F), after which you turn right towards Šatrići (G). At the next intersection, turn right up a slight hill to Obilje (H) and continue without turning to the Port Bridge (I). After the bridge, turn left and return through Luka (J) and Ban Josip Jelačić Street (K) to the Otočac City Park (L).

9. National Park Paklenica, Ivine vodice

Refreshment in the hot months

Text and photos: Andrija Savić

Among all the tracks of National Park Paklenica, this track stands out with its aesthetics and simplicity. The trail starts from the mountain lodge Paklenica and goes to the mountain shelter Ivine vodice. In one direction it is 5.5 km, and the slope is 12.2 percent. It is also one of the easiest trails since it has a slight slope (the last third is the steepest) and it is a trampled single-track.

At the mountain lodge, there is a pool where you can bathe and recover in the summer months, given that the water temperature is around 15 degrees. You can always catch axes and chop some wood on Ivine vodice and thus spice up your training. The trail runs through the forest all the time which is ideal for the hot months. All in all, a real treat for trail racers looking for clean air.

10. Učka

A view from the top of Istria

Text and photos: Marko Jelić

The route I usually take starts from Moščenička Draga. Along the coast, take the 750 steps to Moščenica, which overlooks Rijeka and Kvarner. From Moščenica, the road continues to Mala Učka. From Mala Učka, I head towards the beautiful Babin Grob lookout point, which houses a shelter and a lodge. Back from Mala Učka, sometimes I turn to Suhi Vrh.

I continue my journey to Vojak, the highest peak of Učka mountain, and therefore the whole Istrian peninsula. From there, there's a view of the whole of Istria, the islands, Risnjak, and Slovenian mountain peaks. The options are many but for me, this route is favorite!

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September 30, 2020 - For the fourth year in a row, the Sonus Festival has proved that it is a favorite festival among the audience at the recent awards ceremony of the domestic and regional electronic music industry held in Zagreb.

HRTurizam reports that the Sonus Festival won the Ambassador Award for the best open-air festival in 2019, in competition against the most famous festivals Dimensions, Outlook, Sea Star, and Modem.

The Sonus Festival on the island of Pag is visited every year by guests from more than 65 countries, and due to the global coronavirus epidemic and the recommendations of experts, the organizers decided not to hold the festival this year.

"Although Sonus has received international awards, the Ambassador Award means a lot to us because every year it is chosen by our most loyal local and regional fans. I would like to thank them for supporting us by choosing us for the fourth year in a row. In these difficult times for the music industry, this kind of recognition gives us an incentive to work even harder and strive to make our next festival even better. We hope that the health situation will improve and that we will soon be able to organize some of our events and host some of the world's music DJ stars in Croatia," said the founder of the Sonus Festival, Dalibor Oliver Zjacic.

Hoping to improve the global health situation and bring the epidemic under control, preparations will soon begin for the 8th edition of the festival scheduled for August 15 to 20, 2021.

Over the past few years, the Sonus Festival has hosted the world's biggest names, such as Carl Cox, Solomon, Sven Väth, Richie Hawtin, Ricardo Villalobos, Adam Beyer, Loco Dice, Chris Liebing, Pan-Pot, Amelie Lens, Charlotte De Witte, The Martinez Brothers, Tale Of Us, Joseph Capriati, Jamie Jones, Sam Paganini, Seth Troxler, Marco Carole, Maceo Plexa, Apolloniae, Len Faki, Matadora, Enzo Siraguse, tINI, Monica Kruse and many others.

The Sonus team also organizes the Zagreb International Festival #WELOVESOUND, which has also been postponed to June 12, 2021.

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August 16, 2020 - Italian TV reports shocking disregard for social distancing as young Italians go wild on Pag

Italian TV have aired shocking footage showing their young countrymen on holiday. The report, aired on the TG1 segment of Rai Uno TV shows hundreds of island holidaymakers packed into nightclubs as young Italians go wild on Pag. They display a wanton disregard for any social distancing.

One young Italian lady is interviewed and claims there is no more Coronavirus. Another, a male, says he'll get tested upon returning home, although he's not worried because he is young. Perhaps his elderly relatives should be more worried?

Young italians go wild on Pag

After a slow start to the season, scenes from the report appear to show the famous nightlife of Pag now in full swing. With so many holidaymakers from Italy currently enjoying the island, its clubs and the alcohol they serve, it appears it would be a struggle for the venues themselves to enforce social distancing regulations. But, the holidaymakers do not appear keen to take on the responsibility for themselves.

While it makes a change for judgemental TV reports from the Croatian holiday season for once not to feature British youths, this is hardly a matter for amusement; Italy was one of the first European countries hit hard by COVID-19. It took a sustained and painful effort to bring the number of infections down. Italians at home must be watching such scenes with horror. They are terrified of the virus re-emerging at the uncontrollable level seen earlier this year. Already 30 young people who had been on holiday in Croatia this year returned home with Coronavirus infections.

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July 18, 2020 - The tourist boards on the island of Pag continue to work together on joint projects during this year's tourist season. This time, they have launched Pag Outdoor Summer Weekend, or active weeks that will be held with licensed and experienced trainers in various forms of active tourism.

HRTurizam writes that since COVID-19 closed festivals on the famous island, so the usual summer party destination had to be quickly and deftly reoriented into a sports-recreational or active holiday destination.

Kristina Alaburic from the Kissa Association and Berislav Sokac from Run Croatia devised the concept of active weekends on the island of Pag, which include six sports (running, cycling, Nordic walking, SUP, kayaking, mountaineering).

Training is adapted to age groups with carefully selected concepts that will be offered by coaches and are adapted to current conditions concerning the current situation. All participants pay the registration fee in order to have complete control and security at the training and the registration of members.

Five years ago, people in Croatia laughed at Sokac when he suggested that a running race be held on Zrce, and today, the island of Pag is the first island in Croatia to have sports activities throughout the summer.

”In one day, only one sport can be held in one place on the island. In this way, active tourists are encouraged to explore the island, and they are encouraged to take a dynamic vacation. This means that on Sundays, Mandre has a run, you can kayak in Pag, SUP in Metajna…. Run Croatia has provided a registration platform where tourists can register for training for 70 kn. For that money, they get refreshments after training in local gastronomic centers, such as Boškinac or Na Tale. In this way, the gastronomic exploration of the island with local quality refreshments is encouraged. We also keep records of who trained where, so that we can react in time in the event of COVID," said Berislav Sokac from Run Croatia. By the way, the Run Croatia platform is one of, if not the best, racing platforms in the world. And it is Croatian.

Thus, on weekends during July and August, a handful of sporting events will be organized throughout the island, such as cycling, Nordic walking, trail, sea kayaking, SUP (windsurfing), windsurfing, running, walking, and quad riding.

Namely, last month, an Agreement on the project association of local tourist boards on the island of Pag was signed. It can be said that this is a historical moment in which all the island's tourist boards have signed such a multi-year joint project for the first time, which is important for tourism and quality offer of the entire island of Pag.

And that the synergy is not only on paper, but the proof is in Pag Outdoor Summer Weekend!

The island's tourist boards are satisfied with joint projects, especially this year, when almost all events have been canceled, but opportunities have been opened for an ideal active vacation for which the island of Pag has phenomenal prerequisites.

Pag Outdoor Summer Weekend is a logical continuation of cooperation of all communities of the islands and arrives at the right time, when safety and the natural environment are first on the list of priorities of today's guests, says Marina Rizner, director of the Tourist Board of Novalja.

"Five years ago, we started the Life on Mars, Pag Island Trail, in the meantime developed kilometers of new trails along the island, educated guides, organized a series of races, gained long-term sports partners such as Run Croatia, Kissa, Trekking League, extended the pre and post season and jointly involved other tourist stakeholders of the destination. It is time to discover all the faces and backs of the lunar island of Pag this summer and choose an active stay in nature," said Rizner.

Sara Cemeljic, director of TZO Kolan, has the same opinion, emphasizing that this is the beginning of recognizing the island of Pag as a sports island.

"Given that the island of Pag is known for its numerous gastronomic events, this is a unique project that reveals all the diversity of the island, with an emphasis on sports activities. We believe that this is the beginning of recognizing the island of Pag as a sports island, where every guest eager for recreation can find something, either sport on land or in the sea, and introducing guests to many undiscovered beauties," said Cemeljic.

"The island of Pag has a specific shape with many bays, fields, karst, freshwater lakes, ancient olive groves. Povljana is surrounded by rocky karst, along a fertile field, near the lake and separated from the main island road and has ideal areas for sports activities such as Nordic walking, running, cycling, and due to the western winds it is extremely suitable for surfing, sailing,"  said Neven Ticic, director of the Tourist Board of Povljana and concluded:

"That is the reason why we got involved in the project, hoping that as soon as possible, the sports component will gain importance on our beautiful and contrasting island."

Irena Trcol, director of TZM Stara Novalja, pointed out that Pag Outdoor Summer Weekend project was created for their island, which is so different, and yet unique that they can offer every guest a rich selection of outdoor activities. From the program itself, you can see how many organized activities are offered with licensed guides so that everyone will choose something for themselves for an unforgettable vacation on the island.

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July 13, 2020 - Marc Rowlands interviews Boris Šuljić, owner of Boškinac on Pag, a Michelin-starred restaurant, to try and discover the secret to success in the challenging summer of 2020

Among the neverending doom and gloom of this year, a ray of sunshine through the clouds. At Boškinac on Pag, the restaurant, hotel and winery, business is booming. With better numbers than at this point in 2019, is it possible the luxury sector is suffering less this season from COVID-19? And what is the secret to Boškinac's success so far in 2020?

“I am very satisfied with this year's business,” Boškinac owner Boris Šuljić told TCN with a smile and a carefree tone to his voice. “It's definitely busier than last year. Some days are better than others but, generally, more people are coming.”

An island within an island. Pag's Boškinac is located within a lush green and neighbourless section of the island's interior © Boškinac

In a year where, depending on who you believe and how you extrapolate the info, tourism in Croatia is down by at least 50%, people sit comfortably isolated on Boškinac's large terrace. There, they take in the view of the olive trees and Boškinac's vineyards, with not a neighbour in sight. With special measures in place, seats in their Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant are similarly full. But just where are these guests coming from?

“Most of them this year have been from Croatia and Slovenia,” says Šuljić, not unsurprised. “I'd say the next largest group is foreign nationals, ex-pats, who now live in Croatia. But, also we've had quite a few from Germany, Austria, and Belgium. It's not so difficult for us to get busy. We are a relatively small hotel - 11 rooms, 55 seats in the fine dining restaurant, and 40 seats in our more informal tavern.”

Boris Šuljić welcoming guests to Boškinac with a glass of their own-made wine in summer 2019 © Fabio Šimićev

Šuljić estimates that in total around 60% of 2020's guests have come from Croatia, 40% from other countries, a distinct change in the usual demographic they receive. Awarded a Michelin star in February of 2020, the hotel and restaurant have earned a reputation internationally for high-quality food, wines, service, and an experience much more unhurried and relaxing than that found in many places on the popular island. So, has he dropped his prices to encourage this year's draw?

“No, not at all” Šuljić tells us, “our prices remained normal. We are not so expensive like some other 4 or 5-star hotels in Dubrovnik, Rovinj, or Split. The average room price is around €200. Until 15 July, we arranged some special packages with the room and fine dining. We kept the food at the same price but offered the rooms a little cheaper in combination. It was successful. It seemed to attract people who'd heard of the hotel and restaurant, who maybe decided that right now was the best time to come and look. It's not so far to come here to check us out when you only have to travel from Split or Istria, even Zagreb, which is where many of these guests have been coming from. They stayed for one or two nights and enjoyed our Michelin-starred restaurant.”

The flair with which Boškinac on Pag use their fresh, locally-sourced and premium ingredients earned them a Michelin star earlier in 2020 © Boškinac

Always keeping on top of developments in Croatia's gastro scene (you can stay updated on our Gourmet pages), one of TCN's most recent reports from Boškinac noted the venue's fluctuating success of the 2019 season. The summer's unusually variable weather was considered as perhaps one factor in the lack of footfall. With the sun shining reliably on Pag this summer, could it be that visitors care more about the weather than they do about Coronavirus? Is sun-seeking really a greater deciding factor for those looking at Croatia holidays than the ever-updating COVID-19 situation? Šuljić thinks not.

“I definitely think we're busier this year because of the Michelin star,” he says. “People seem to really recognise this international sign of quality. We got a lot of attention because of this. I think it is also because of our communication. We capitalised on the attention and we have been sending out very positive messages. We have every reason to be optimistic and it is this optimistic message we have been sending out; we are here, we are a small place, isolated, we have no neighbours, with allocations for relatively few people, but with lots of room and air and enough terrace for everyone. This is not the usual kind of busy hotel that's packed with people. We are very passionate about our food and our hotel experience. Ours is a business that concentrates on quality, not quantity.”

A platter of distinctly Dalmatian delights, an example of the food on offer at Boškinac on Pag's less-formal tavern restaurant © Boškinac on Pag

Though Šuljić's international recognition, unique premises and isolated location undoubtedly offer an advantage in attracting high-end clientele, could other Croatian businesses learn something from the clear and optimistic communication Boškinac has been sending out since the season's start? Well, it's an option to all but, since opening in 200, Boškinac's message and communications have been of premium importance to the business.

“We were very ambitious as soon as we opened, especially with our food,” remembers Šuljić. “But, at that time, this kind of fine dining experience was not so much recognised in Croatia. It was a very high cuisine for the time. People didn't understand what we were trying to do. Slowly we grew with our guests. It was a journey we made together. It was a gradual process. On our part, a mixture of good social media communication, some PR and word-of-mouth recommendations from previous guests was what worked best.”

Spectacular presentation, one of the many wow factors attracting curious visitors to Boškinac on Pag © Boškinac on Pag

Of course, it's too early to tell if Boškinac will maintain its story of success through summer 2020. Šuljić is aware of this. And, even though it is even more difficult to predict the rest of the season than in any other year, he remains decidedly unworried because of their experiences so far.

“It is really interesting,” he says, when asked about future bookings for this summer, “I've never known anything like it. We have so far not had any bookings further than three or four weeks in advance. It's much more week to week. For instance, right now we have zero bookings for August. Usually, I would be concerned. But, it was the same one month ago and now we are almost full. All of the bookings are last minute. People are making their decisions based on the status and the quality of the information available. They check the news and the websites for advice, make a decision and then off they go.”

© Boškinac on Pag

For the best and most up-to-date information on Coronavirus and travel to Croatia, bookmark the Total Croatia News news page.

Total Croatia News is the best-read English language news site covering Croatia for people across south-east Europe. If you want to get your message across to those booking last-minute visits to the Croatia in summer 2020, contact us at  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to see what we can do for you.

July 13, 2020 - In their first venture to the Croatian coast, Rešetka's summer menu brings fine-dining quality to seaside streets in 2020

Sometimes you just want a burger, a sandwich, or something you can just eat from your hands. But, just because you haven't got the time or can't be bothered with the faff of fine dining, that doesn't mean you're volunteering for a drastic drop in quality.

That's where Rešetka comes in. Street food providers renowned for sourcing and selling only quality meats, the grill specialists have been a highlight of Zagreb Burger Fest and several pop-ups in recent times. This summer, the experience that has won over the Croatian capital's burger connoisseurs can be found instead along the coast.

Rešetka owner Nikola Božić has embarked on the summer venture with chef Katarina Vrenc. You'll be able to find their new concept 'Fine Street Food by Reshetka & Katarina Vrenc' at several pop-up locations along the Adriatic this summer. They'll be visiting Istria, Kvarner and Dalmatia, including the islands of Cres and Pag.


Rešetka and Đurina Hiža are renowned for using only high quality, locally sourced produce within their dishes including, this year, beef from a hybrid of Japan's famed wagyu and Holstein, sourced from the first range herd of its kind in Croatia © Rešetka

With a commitment to cooking only with high quality, locally sourced produce and ingredients, the team is known to use premium meats and seafood for their dishes. This year they will offer beef from a hybrid of Japan's famed wagyu and Holstein, sourced from the first range herd of its kind in Croatia. Within a summer menu that combines the best of continental and coastal Croatian ingredients, you'll also find superior snacks such as rich pork belly paired with octopus.

Nikola Božić is also the proprietor of Đurina Hiža near Varaždinske Toplice. As recently covered in TCN, thanks to some quick and positive thinking, though the restaurant closed for a while in the Coronavirus lockdown, Nikola was able to adapt his business in order to remain successful during the period; relying on high quality, locally sourced ingredients, he became a bridge between the small producers he'd spent time finding, and those shopping online from their homes. Their 'Deda Goes Around the World' service delivered meats and other produce throughout Croatia during the restaurant's temporary closure.

If you're planning to visit Dubrovnik, Biograd, Pula, Premantura or Split this summer and can't face another pizza slice, kebab or burger of questionable origin, be sure to look out for the Rešetka logo. Fine Street Food by Reshetka & Katarina Vrenc will visit Plavica Bar on island Cres on 7 & 8 August and the Michelin-starred Boškinac on Pag in the middle of September. Further inland, they'll also be available at the High Grounds Festival in Varaždinske Toplice on 31 July, 1 & 2 August. Grab yourself a handful of delicious food and pick a spot to watch the stunning Croatian sunset, the Adriatic coast and its breathtaking backdrop has long been lacking exactly this standard of street food to accompany.


© Rešetka

May 27, 2020 - The new TNT docuseries 'Shaq Life', featuring basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal, follows the world's largest superstar to Croatia, the first stop of his European DJ Diesel Tour.

Whether you were a basketball fan or not, growing up in Southern California, you knew who Shaquille O'Neal was. The NBA legend played for the Los Angeles Lakers for eight years and brought the NBA championship to the Staples Center for a three-peat in 2000, 2001, 2002. Alongside Kobe Bryant, many consider the duo one of the NBA's best. 

But Shaq wasn't just an entertainer on the court. Shaq's filmography takes him from playing a 3,000-year-old genie in 'Kazaam', to voicing his own character in 'The Lego Movie.' He was the face of Pepsi and IcyHot, appeared in professional wrestling events, and even tried his hand in rapping during the1990s.

While his days on the court may be over, his days as an entertainer are just beginning.

Most recently, the 48-year-old four-time NBA champion and MVP is a dubstep DJ, which brings us to why he was in Croatia last summer. 

Namely, under the stage name DJ Diesel, Shaq performed at the famous party-beach Zrće, Noa club, as part of the inaugural Pow Wow festival. It was also the first stop on his European DJ tour. TCN wrote all about it here.

In what Fanbuzz calls an "exclusive, no holds barred look into how the world’s largest superstar lives his life" the new 'Shaq Life' docuseries centered around Shaquille O’Neal's life follows the basketball legend on his Croatian journey. 

Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, which certainly adds to the excitement of the show, Shaq Life debuted on April 9, and aired every Thursday on TNT.

If you haven't already seen it, you can catch a clip of Shaq's Croatian adventure below:

To read more about lifestyle in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page. 

April 21, 2020 — A tourism hub on the island of Pag opted out of loosened travel restrictions to prevent a surge in new COVID-19 infections during the coming Mayday holiday, which it fears could have repercussions on its profitable summer season.

The decision comes as the rest of Croatia tosses aside an ePass system which created an administrative — if not literal — barrier between municipalities and counties during the first month of Croatia’s lockdown. 

A drop in new infections gives local directorates a chance to ease back on restrictions. Novalja said, “No thanks” and received an exemption allowing it to maintain stricter policies.

The head of Novalja’s Civil Protection Directorate Marijan Suljić reportedly told HINA the town will keep the ePass regime, preventing weekend visitors from returning to second residences and vacation homes.

“It may be a case of thousands of people who would come to their apartments when no catering facilities were working,” Suljić said. “Everyone would go out to the waterfront and that's dangerous. With this unpopular decision, we are protecting ourselves and them.”

Novalja made waves with an ad campaign asking tourists to stay at home, a jarring message for a town whose economy relies almost exclusively on a booming tourism season.

The comparatively affluent municipality helped local businesses weather the lockdown’s economic plunge, covering state-mandated social safety net contributions for every worker in the hospitality industry.

Suljić acknowledged the continued lockdown would anger the owners of summer homes and apartments. He said Novalja will welcome back weekenders, eventually, but not at the cost of progress made containing the coronavirus. 

To date, the small town had only two cases of COVID-19, a married couple reportedly recovered ready to be declared healthy on Sunday, 28 days after testing positive.

The municipality will probably open to outsiders when hospitality and food service companies resume business.

“We just have to endure a little more because it would be pointless to give up and ruin everything now,” Suljić added.