Description

Kamenjak is the protected peninsula at the very southern tip of Istria, starting just past the village of Premantura, about 10 km from Pula. Gravel roads lead through meadows, maquis and low pine woods to a coastline of rocky coves, small pebble beaches and low cliffs, with some of the clearest sea in the northern Adriatic.

It is also one of the sunniest corners of the region. Kamenjak gets around 210 mm of rain a year, against more than 870 mm in nearby Pula and Medulin, which gives it a truly Mediterranean feel and makes it a place to enjoy outdoors in every season.

Behind the beaches lies a treasure of nature. The open grasslands are home to rare and protected plants, including the yellow centaury, found nowhere else in Croatia, and around 50 species of butterflies. The whole area is part of the Natura 2000 network.

Almost 100 million years ago dinosaurs walked here. A walking path on the Grakalovac peninsula leads to their fossilised footprints, and fossils can be spotted along many parts of the shore. Near Polje Cove, the Istrian Farm keeps the native boškarin cattle.

At the tip of the peninsula, the Porer Lighthouse stands alone on its islet, and just off the coast lies the islet of Fenoliga. When it is time for a break, the Safari Beach Bar is a favourite stop.

The best way to explore Kamenjak is by bike, following the cycling trail away from the dusty roads. Bring plenty of water, take your rubbish with you and leave the plants and fossils where you found them, so Kamenjak stays as wild as it is today.