Vrana

Village Vrana is located in the hinterland of Zadar in the close proximity of the Vrana Lake Nature Park. It was an important place with a rich history, which is testified today by the medieval fortress Gradina that represented the ecclesiastical and secular center of power from the 11th to 14th century. An interesting fact is that Vrana was the location where the Croatian royal crown was kept. The settlement features the remains of the Gothic Church of St. Catherine and a defensive tower. While in the area, do not miss visiting Maškovića Han, the former residence of a commander of the Ottoman army, which today is the largest monument of Ottoman architecture in Croatia. A must-see attraction of this area is the Vrana Lake Nature Park with an ornithological reserve, where you will find more than 100 different species of birds during the nesting season. Those who seek a more active vacation will love the offer of activities. Namely, well-kept bike paths around the Vrana Lake are a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. Near the highest peak of the Vrana Lake Nature Park, there is viewpoint Kamenjak with stunning vistas over Vrana Lake, endless cultivated olive groves and the blue sea that is dotted with the islands of the archipelagos of Zadar, Kornati and Šibenik. In the immediate vicinity of the viewpoint, there is a botanical hiking trail that will lead you through the canyons of Orlja Draga and Mernjača amidst a dense forest and around the hill Kamenjak.