The island of Cres is a perfect natural health resort thanks to its mild climate, beautiful beaches, crystal-clear sea, and untouched nature. More than 1,400 different plant species grow here, such as sage, immortelle, spurge, dandelion, nettle and other wild and medicinal herbs, which make Cres a true botanical garden. The island is a home to many animal species, such as the Cres sheep, which is the most common animal (there being several thousand of them on the island), as well as the griffon vulture, a protected bird species and one of the largest flying birds in the world. Beli is home to a visitor centre dedicated to the griffon vulture. The centre, which also includes a griffon vulture rescue and recovery facility, presents the story of these birds in a fascinating way.
Unspoilt nature and good weather throughout the year provide numerous opportunities for outdoor activities on the island of Cres. For nature lovers and those who want to get to know the island, there are about 300 km of marked hiking trails that link the rugged interior of the island with the glittering beauty of its coast.
The biggest attractions of the island are certainly its long natural pebble beaches, mostly located along the west coast of the island. Exploring and discovering the island from the sea is a special experience.
Watching dolphins playing in the sea or griffon vultures circling over the island, panoramas that open up to the sea and over the nearby islands and beautiful sunsets, all these are scenes that leave no one indifferent. If diversity is another name for wealth, then the island of Cres is a real pearl and a unique holiday destination, for it is one of the last places where you can experience the Mediterranean as it once was.
