If you're looking to spend your next yacht charter holiday enjoying completely wild nature without traveling too far from cities that offer vibrant nightlife and a hip gourmet scene, the Brijuni archipelago is your safest bet.
This famous vacation destination is home to one of the most gorgeous natural parks in Europe, where you’ll be able to see dinosaur footprints, endemic species, and traces of long lost times. Brijuni encompasses striking contrasts, from a safari you'd expect to see in an exotic African desert, to golf courses like those in Scotland or Italy.
These islands in Croatia are becoming one of the most popular yachting destinations thanks to translucent seas, a diverse biolife and an indented coastline that makes it a diver’s paradise. Located south of the Istrian peninsula, famous for its delicious truffles and wines, this Adriatic archipelago is unlike any other Mediterranean spot, blessed not only with lush greenery and turquoise seas, but also with an unexpectedly rich archeological richess.
The largest of the 14 enhancing islands, Veliki Brijun, has an aristocratic allure and offers lots to do for visitors of different interests. Boats up to 55 meters in length can moor in the marina here, where 24 hours service is provided, while larger ones can moor in the Fažana channel itself and marvel at the abundant nature of the Adriatic Garden of Eden.
Things to see in Brijuni
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday full of exciting activities for little ones, or want to enjoy a luxury yacht charter vacation with friends and make memories to bind you forever, you’ll soon find that the Brijuni archipelago seduces everyone that sets foot on this sublime oasis.
Offering plenty to explore while cruising on your luxury yacht for charter, it can be quite overwhelming to decide where to start, so we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on getting the most of your stay in the Brijuni archipelago.
Roman villa in Verige Bay
The vibrant nature of Brijuni has attracted different cultures throughout history, many of whom have left their mark in this little piece of heaven on Earth. The traces of first residents go back to 3 millennia before Christ, making this Adriatic jewel a mecca for history enthusiasts. One of the most interesting archeological finds is most definitely the Roman Villa in Verige Bay, whose construction began in the 1st century BC, envisioned as a lavish summer residence with mesmerizing views of the azure Verige bay. The residence encompassed temples of Neptune, roman god of freshwater, Venus, the goddess of beauty making this a real treat for those interested in mythology. Remnants of an ancient gymnasium, therme, and a library are found scattered along this kilometar-long palace, one of the most sumptuous ones of the era. While enjoying a stroll through this castle, you’ll be able to see gorgeous mosaics and witness the pinnacle of ancient architecture, as well as picture-perfect surroundings.
National Park Brijuni - Safari
Few places in Europe can flaunt nature as impressive as this Croatian archipelago. If you’re traveling with little ones, this is the perfect place to show teach them about the different species our planet is home to - from autochthonous species to ones imported by various rulers that had the privilege to call Brijuni their own, these islands have a rich fauna will impress visitors regardless of age. Part of the ethno park of Veliki Brijun even has a safari, where you can see the largest asian antelope - nilgai, zebras, waterbucks, as well as the istrian sheep, fox and goats. The sea is bursting with life, just as much as land - don’t be surprised if while cruising on your luxury charter yacht, you are greeted by a dolphin or you stumble upon a sea turtle. The marine species of Brijuni archipelago are protected by the Law of Environmental Conservation, many of them being completely unique to the region.
The gentle Mediterranean climate and wonderful geographical position provide ideal living conditions for 600 endemic plants, as well as cedars, bamboos, and olive groves.
The Byzantine Castrum
A lexicon of the Roman empire, medieval rulers, Franks and Venetians, the Byzantine Castrum in the Madonna Bay offers a glimpse into the turbulent history of this upscale holiday destination.
Tito’s Museum
One can not fully tell the story of Brijuni without mentioning Josip Broz Tito, the Croatian-born Yugoslav leader and revolutionary who has his summer residence here and who made the archipelago as popular as it is today. Most exotic animals here were gifted to him by foreign state presidents, including the two elephants sent as presents by Indira Gandhi. He gave a new life and hype to this Adriatic hotspot, inviting the most important figures of the era for a visit, including Liz Taylor, with whom he allegedly even had an affair with, Sofia Loren, Queen Elizabeth and many others. The secluded location guaranteed a very select group of visitors on the island, and much of the region's history was decided on important meetings with world’s leaders in Tito’s headquarters in Veli Brijun. His museum has a curated display of personal items, cars and pictures that tell the intriguing tale of the eccentric Yugoslav dictator, famous for his glossy lifestyle.
Dinosaur Traces
The Brijuni National Park is now one of the most elite yachting holiday hotspots, but some 130 million years ago, it served as a playground for the extinct giants who continue to fascinate adults and children to this day. You will find 24 fossils and innumerable dinosaur traces while exploring this truly exceptional archipelago, once home to sauropods, theropods and ornithopods. The oldest traces of these mysterious creatures date back to the Upper Jurassic period, discovered in the beginning of the 20th century. Roam the wild terrain - you’ll find footprints by the sea, or take your children to the Dinosaur Park, dedicated to Croatia's gigantic former residents and marvel at the spectacular enigma they pose to this day.
Things to do in Brijuni
Attracting high society since the beginning of time, Brijuni is just as equipped to entertain nature or history enthusiasts as it is those who simply want to surrender to the finer things in life. The striking scenery, pristine seas and innumerable summer activities make this archipelago an ideal choice for your next stay on board one of our fantastic yachts for charter.
Golfing
The thriving meadows and birdsong of Veli Brijun make for a perfect environment for golfers, who will be pleased to discover the sumptuous golfing course, set up by early 20th century nobility from Europe. One of the most environmentally-friendly courses in the world spreads across 5531 meters of land and has 18 holes, perfect for a stress-relieving match with unmatched views of the turquoise Adriatic.
Diving
Scuba divers from all over the world flock the archipelago each summer, and for good reason. The indented coast, plethora of marine species and brilliant seas are just part of the spectacle that awaits you when you don your luxury yacht’s charter gear. Only permitted since 2001, scuba diving in Brijuni is organized in three locations - St. Jerolim, Peneda and Grunj, and with special attention devoted to preserving the natural balance and underwater flora and fauna.
Hiking and cycling
The heavenly gardens of Brijuni attract hikers with opulent gardens and colorful nature with several trails that are simply awe-inspiring. For the best views, we recommend the Belvedere trail that is organized around the gardens of the Austro-Hungarian aristocracy built, with summer houses overlooking the valleys, in the early 1900s to marvel at the lush nature. Zelenkovac trail is meant for those looking to solve the mysteries of the dinosaur extinction and will take you around the paleontological curiosities, as well as historical landmarks that make Brijuni so special.
Best restaurants in Brijuni
While the protected natural area in Brijuni doesn’t have dozens of swish restaurants, the ones that are there are often said to be the best in all of Croatia, due to the rare species of fish only found in this archipelago, as well as fruitful lands where the most fragrant and delicious ingredients are handpicked. When you’re in the mood for an elegant soiree, we highly recommend you visit Ribarska Konoba, a Michelin-adorned restaurant in the ancient city of Pula. In Brijuni, you can book a table in Neptun Istra, and treat your tastebuds to some superb truffles, for just a fragment of the price you’d pay in Italy for the same or even higher quality. In Fazana, you’ll find La Bodega, a nonchalant eaterie with unpretentious, yet mouthwatering meals where you can recharge with freshly caught regional fish covered in almonds, finest Croatian prosciutto or paellas with colorful seafood. Paired with some fine Istrian malvasia, each dish here deserves a Jamie Oliver special, yer the atmosphere remains relaxed and casual.
And of course, during your yacht charter holiday you can always count on gourmand food prepared by your onboard private chef, who will turn the alfresco dining area of your luxury yacht into the most exciting seaside restaurant with a view anywhere you choose to moor for the day.
