Ugljan – The pearl of the Zadar archipelago

Croatia, known for its beautiful coastline and picturesque islands, hides many extraordinary places, one of the most fascinating of which is Ugljan. Lying off the coast of Croatia, in the Zadar Archipelago, this 51.05 km² island is a real gem of the region.

With its proximity to the islands of Pašman, Rivanj and Sestrunj, and connected to the mainland by a bridge, Ugljan is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. The island’s surface area and its 78.7 km of coastline make it a place with a diverse landscape, with numerous bays and picturesque beaches. Administratively, it belongs to the Zadar County, which gives the island a unique character and historical significance. Definitely one of the most fascinating aspects of Ugljana is its rich history. From ancient times, when it was part of the Roman empire, through the Middle Ages to the present day, Ugljan has witnessed many eras.

Ancient ruins, picturesque churches and charming villages testify to a rich cultural heritage that attracts history enthusiasts and architecture lovers. Ugljan is also a place where olive-growing traditions reach deep into the past. The name of the island may come from the olive tree, which suggests the important role this tree played in the life of the local community. Ugljana olives are valued for their quality and taste, and local olive farms preserve the traditions of growing and producing this precious elixir.

Ugljan is also a place of lively communities, with numerous charming towns. Preko, Poljana, Sutomišćica, Lukoran, Kali, Kukljica – each of these towns has its own unique atmosphere, encouraging tourists to discover local culture and traditions. Tourism in Ugljana is developing dynamically, attracting nature, history and culture lovers.

The Zadar Canal, separating the island from the mainland, is both a natural barrier and a beautiful waterway for those who want to discover the charms of this region.

Ugljan is not only an island with picturesque landscapes and charming beaches, but also a place with a fascinating history, roots dating back to ancient times and traditions related to olives. For tourists looking for authentic experiences and natural beauty, Ugljan is the perfect combination of culture, history and relaxation on the Adriatic Sea.

See also: Šolta – a beautiful Croatian island