Villa Pietra Pag

The island of Pag is known for being a truly unique gem in the Adriatic Sea, with dramatic, moonlike landscapes and a shimmering turquoise coastline. Bright yellow immortelle flowers grow wild all over Pag, with a heady fragrance that combines with the sea salt in the air. The island is conveniently connected to mainland Croatia by the Pag Bridge and a frequent ferry service. However, once you have crossed over to Pag’s sloping, soft-pink hills, endless olive groves and secluded, sunny beaches, you will find yourself transported to an idyllic island with a laidback lifestyle, vibrant coastal towns and a wealth of natural beauty to enjoy.

Plenty of beautiful, remote beaches are located in the bays which stretch from the Lun Peninsula towards the popular town of Novalja, as well as in the areas of Kustići, Zubovići, and Metajna. Straško Beach is approximately twenty minutes from Villa Pietra by car, while the warm, shallow cove at Planjka Trinćel is also just a short drive away. Meanwhile, the beaches at Babe, Delfinka and Šimuni are just a few more of the enchanting coastal wonders you will find yourself exploring on the shores of Pag.

For those who wish to soak up the island’s lively nightlife, Zrće Beach is a famous Croatian party destination with music and dancing late into the night. In the seaside town of Novalja, a twenty-minute drive away from the villa, visitors will enjoy a wide range of activities, from fantastic gastronomic experiences to music festivals, watersports and boat tours.

From the charming streets of Pag’s old town, you can visit the Pag Lace Museum to learn about the intricacies of the island’s ancient craft. Admire the fifteenth-century Church of the Assumption before making your way towards Gligora Dairy, where foodies will be in cheese heaven after a guided tour and a tasting session. Intimate vineyard tours and wine tastings are also available on the island.

For a day trip to remember, drive to the quirky seaside streets of the famous city of Zadar, an hour and a half away from Villa Pietra by car. Here, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the magical installation known as the Salutation to the Sun and the musical Sea Organ make Zadar a special city with plenty to offer its visitors.

Adventure seekers will be excited to learn that Pag is also home to ‘Life on Mars’, a breathtaking hiking destination. The four designated trekking trails encompass sixteen kilometres of spectacular coastal scenery. Meanwhile, several marked trails lead from the beach at Kolan to Sveti Vid, the island’s highest peak, offering panoramic views of Pag and its neighbouring islands, as well as dreamlike sunset vistas. The peak can also be reached by car via a newly constructed road from Šimuni.

Read more about Pag

The island of Pag is located in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea. Pag has a unique landscape, rich history, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife at Zrće Beach, that all combine to make it a well-rounded choice for travellers.

Pag has a rich history, which is evident in its architecture and cultural heritage. One of the most significant historical sites on the island is the town of Pag itself, where you can see the archeological site of the medieval Old Town. Once the home of 6000 people, today you can still visit the parish church and the ruins of a Franciscan Monastery. The Rector’s Palace, located in Pag’s main square, was once the home to the Venetian Duke who governed the island, and is now used for cultural events throughout the year.

Novalja, the largest town on the island, has a historical centre, museums and galleries, and plenty of modern amenities. The narrow streets, charming squares, and vibrant markets offer a glimpse into traditional Croatian life. The Church of St. Catherine, a beautiful Baroque church, is a noteworthy site to visit, along with the Novalja City Museum, which provides insights into the island's history and culture.

One of Pag's most famous attractions is Zrće Beach, which has earned itself a reputation as a party destination, drawing young tourists from around the world. The beach is lined with bars and clubs that come to life after dark, offering music and a vibrant nightlife. Zrće Beach's party scene is a stark contrast to the island's tranquility during the day, making Pag a versatile destination suitable for both relaxation and excitement.

The island also has several more beautiful beaches along its coastline. Šimuni is a large, family friendly beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, and is a great spot for swimming or hiring jet skis and paddle boats. A stroll along the picturesque promenade here offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands. If you’re a water sports fan, you can find facilities for paddle-boarding, kayaking, and even windsurfing at various locations around the island. Many beachfront areas offer equipment rentals and instructors for those looking to try something new.

Pag offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports for those after some on-land adventure! The island's rugged terrain makes it an ideal destination for adventurous souls looking to explore the wilderness. One of the most stunning sights on the island is the unique moon-like landscape located in the southern part of the island. This unique area is characterised by its barren, rocky terrain and is often used as a backdrop for various movies and photo shoots. A visit to this extraordinary lunar landscape is a journey into an otherworldly environment.

The island is renowned for its production of high-quality Pag cheese, a distinctive sheep's milk cheese with a slightly salty taste, owing to the diet of the sheep that graze on the island's aromatic herbs. It’s a local delicacy and can be enjoyed in various forms, from fresh and creamy to aged and crumbly. Pag is also well known for its lamb dishes. The traditional method of cooking lamb under a bell (called "peka") infuses the meat with a rich, smoky flavour that's a must-try. Pair this with a glass of local wine, and you'll have a true taste of the island!

The island is easily accessible as it’s linked to the mainland by bridge, and both Zadar and Split airports are a short drive away. Whether you prefer trekking along the lunar landscape, cycling through olive groves, trying your hand at water sports, or family picnics on picturesque beaches, Pag has it all.