Meet griffon vulture while on holiday

Unstress on Cres

Cres island is one of a kind island on the Adriatic coast. It is the biggest Croatian island, situated at the northern tip of Kvarner gulf. Although scarcely populated, island Cres has been inhabited since later stone age.  
Vegetation is incredibly diverse: from scarce rocky pastures, scattered olive and fig trees, to dense shrubs, coastal forests and finally rich pine forests - over a thousand plant species. Birds play a vital part of the island biodiversity system - there are more than 100 breeding bird species across the island, while the most famous of these is the Eurasian Griffon Vulture around which the island’s entire biodiversity revolves.

                                                      
Hilltop village Beli
In order to protect Eurasian griffon vulture, one of the most endangered bird species in Europe that is threatened with extinction, in 1993 a couple of academics and reserachers opened Eco Centar Caput Insulae. Eco center is located in hilltop village Beli in the north part of the island. In order to get to Beli you first have to conquer the challenge of driving through a tiny, wavy road where two cars can barely pass each other. Getting there is an experience itself! Once you get there you will be amazed by the beauty of this charming village with several excellent restaurants serving local dishes like roasted lamb!




Largest vulture sanctuary in Europe
This Eco Center is the largest vulture sanctuary in Europe. During summer month dozens of young volunteers from all over the world participate in a number of various programs like protection of Eurasian griffon, restoration of drystone walls, 

rescuing freshwater ponds, managing eco-trails, work in the  interpretation center, making souvenirs and many others. When you visit the center you will be given a tour of the house, which has been turned into museum. In the back of the house is large netted vulture sanctuary where you can observe them from close distance.

Where to stay?

It is very hard to find accommodation in village of Beli, but Cres town is very close. I suggest checking out local travel agency Croatia, or you can stay in family apartments in Mali Losinj, a city about 40 minutes by car from Cres.

Cres Town

Marina in Cres

Stay tuned!

(images from www.supovi.hr and www.cres.hr)