Losinj

Losinj is one of the islands in Croatia belonging to the Cres-Losinj archipelago in the Kvarner Bay and with its 36 islands, islets and reefs, it is the largest group of islands in the Adriatic.

Losinj is the habitat of a large group of bottlenose dolphins in the Northern Adriatic, which is indicative of an exceptional level of purity of the sea. A bewitching fusion of centuries-old pine forests and sea makes Losinj the ideal place for restoring the body and mind. This has been known from time immemorial.

A well preserved natural environment is a unique feature of the island - clean water and air, a mild climate, the diverse vegetation, aromatic scents and flavors have a deeply beneficial effect on everyone who decides to rest and relax here. Its beauty will cast a spell on you whatever the season.

Owing to its exceptional climatic features, already way back in 1892, it was proclaimed a health resort. Today, the island has become a well-known climate resort across the world, particularly famous for its asthma and allergy curing properties.

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Himalaya-h2What Makes Losinj So Special?Himalaya-h2

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- Air – the results measured by the public health institute in 2007 and 2008 show that the area of Losinj has a category 1 air quality.

- Sea – the transparent blue and extremely clear and clean waters washing the beaches of Losinj are suitable for swimming from June till mid-October.

- Algae – there are 262 species of benthic algae found in the waters surrounding the isle. Many of them are highly beneficial for human health.

The Isle of Losinj has always been a favourite resort. The Austro-Hungarian aristocracy built numerous villas and campsites, situated along the beaches, still dotted all over the island till this day.

Owing to its mild climate throughout the year you can go walking and mountaineering over no less than 220 km of pathways and mountain trails laid out over five islands.

Mali Losinj is the capital of the isle Losinj and the inhabitants became famous for their skilfulness in constructing sailing ships and were known as the best seamen of the Mediterranean.

Himalaya-h2A Heaven on Earth for Every Dolphin LoverHimalaya-h2

The Losinj Dolphin Reserve was established in the waters of Cres and Losinj – the first protected marine area for dolphins in the Mediterranean. The area of Cres and Losinj is one of the healthiest and best-preserved areas in the Northern Adriatic.

A research team of the Tethys Institute started a long-term research in 1987, covering the biology, ecology and social structure of the bottlenose dolphins found in the waters surrounding the archipelago. The number of these marine mammals is estimated at 120 individuals. This group is rather small and vulnerable. They are highly intelligent and sophisticated animals, living in complex social communities and play an essential role in maintaining the eco-system of that area. Observing them in their natural habitation is an unforgettable experience.

By participating in the action “Adopt a dolphin” you can support research and educational activities in this field and help protect the dolphins and their habitat.

Contributions help to raise awareness in the community at both the local and state level and through activities such as “Dolphin Day” and thematic lectures in schools and kindergartens, as well as to promote the environmental protection of the islands.

“Dolphin Day” is an annual event that has been taking place in Veli Losinj since 1993 on the first Saturday of August.

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Himalaya-h2Climate of The Isle of LosinjHimalaya-h2

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Due to its favorable position and warm sea current of the south Mediterranean circulating around its shores, Losinj has a mild Mediterranean climate which is characterized by hot and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. The rainy months are late October, November, and December while the rest of the season is dry. If we take into consideration the abundance of plant species, the positive impact of the sea aerosol, the average air humidity of 70%, the small variations between average minimum and maximum air temperatures and the annual insulation of 2563 hours per year, Losinj’s climate is ideal for the treatment of chronic respiratory diseases. Thanks to prof. Ambroz Haracic who opened the first weather station in Mali Losinj on August 1st, 1880 and linked it with the Meteorological Institute in Vienna, worldly attention was directed towards the highly beneficial climate of the island Losinj. The Ministry of Health of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy proclaimed Losinj as a climate and health resort in 1892.

Thanks to these researches the Archduke of Hapsburg Charles Stephen built a castle in the Podjavori region in 1886 along with a garden inhabiting a wide range of exotic plants.

Due to professor Haracic, the large rocky areas of the island Losinj were reforested and the dense pine forest became a symbol of the island today and is of immeasurable value.

Himalaya-h2Footpaths of LosinjHimalaya-h2

Walking through the meandering city streets of Veli Losinj, wood paths and macadam trails filled with colourful aromatic plants will undoubtedly satisfy the requirements of the most demanding active rest enthusiasts. A grid of numerous marked tourist tracks with a total length of 180 km extends throughout the Island.

Responsible tourism

The untouched nature of the island of Losinj provides rich and diverse flora and fauna. We support the development of eco-tourism as well as socially and environmentally responsible travel!

Build Awareness About Enviromental Protection

  • Respect cultural differences - to make your trip more meaningful, learn more about the local community - their traditions, historical and cultural heritage.
  • Learn to appreciate the wildlife, landscape and natural heritage
  • Do not leave a trace, except for foot prints! Do not throw garbage into the sea, do not leave it in the woods and do not paint graffiti or take souvenirs from historic sites.
  • Recycle - separate glass, plastics, paper and aluminum.
  • Preserve energy - Remember to turn off lights and electrical appliances when not in use. Make sure the door are properly closed when heating or air conditioning.
  • Use public transportation, take a walk or ride a bicycle.
  • Buy locally produced goods.
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Himalaya-h2Photo galleryHimalaya-h2