There are a lot of things to discover in Mali Losinj. For example the hustle and bustle on the market place, narrow crooked streets of the town or the beautiful bathing bay Cikat nearby.
General Info
This island in the central part of the Dalmatian Croatian coast is located in the Kvarner Gulf in what are some very peaceful waters of the Adriatic, which is one of the reasons regulars make a point out of coming here year after year.
The neighboring island of Cres is also a vivid tourist destination due to the beautiful scenery and calm waters. A long time ago, the two islands were one compact piece of land, but now they are separated, the only thing connecting them being a bridge. Mali Losinj is the largest city on the island of Losinj.
Travel & Arrival
Though small, the island does boast its own airport which is mainly used by the population during the summer months. There are flights from many towns in Croatia, as well as some in Europe in Italy, like Venetia, Ancona, Milano, Triest, Roma, Rimini, Bologna and Padova.
By road, you’ll find that the town is connected to other locations on the coast and inland Croatia by an extensive bus service, including charter runs to and from Rijeka airport, making it easy to connect with a larger international airport. aficionados can also drive here via the island of Cres but there’s are ferries connecting to the mainland on the 66 and 102 roads in west and respectively, east.
Avant & Apres Sail
It’s no secret that people come here to escape the noise and traffic of modern life and big cities, so don’t expect many attractions. There is however a thriving tourism industry which has been started in the 19th century by Austrian and Hungarian tourists, after the shipbuilding industry gradually died out.
Among the most interesting things to see in Mali Losinj are the St. Martin’s Church graveyard, the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin which has fine some fine art collections. When you’re done with that, have a walk around town where you’ll see the old ornate villas that today have been turned into hotels. The Lungomar, or the waterfront is the perfect place for an evening stroll.
The cuisine doesn’t differ from the one found on the rest of the Dalmatian coast, with a bounty of fish dishes and meats such as lamb, cooked with vegetables, pasta or olive oil. You can try some of the lobster with spaghetti, the grouper with potatoes or any of the local wines which are said to hold a particular aroma thanks to the climate found here, appreciated by many visitors.
The city is as quiet during the night as it is during the day, which means that if you’re looking for clubs with loud music, this is not the place for you. Instead, you’ll find guests sitting at cafes, enjoying a quiet drink with friends and taking in the wonderful scenery and evening air.
Events & Activities
The beaches and the waters around the entire island are very beautiful and worth a visit. The pine forests give out a fresh tint to the air, which is why Mali Losinj was considered very healthy for people with respiratory problems. There are also water sport practiced in the town’s many bays, like windsurfing and diving, popular with the devotees.
Among the local events, there is an international tennis tournament in June, a regatta as the beginning of August, a prestigious international spear-fishing competition in December and a Fishermen’s night feast also in July.