Betina Travel Guide
Those who decide to spend their holidays in Betina, Croatia, won't regret their decision. This wonderful place, situated on the island of Murter, attracts tourists by its crystal clear blue sea, unique landscape, fresh seafood, and the vicinity of three national parks of Croatia (Krka, Kornati, and Paklenica).
To get to Betina you need to take a spur from Adriatic Highway toward the island Murter, enter the island through a bridge in Tisno and then go 6 km further along the coastal road.
The legend says that the town's name is derived from an old Celtic noun "bet" ("mouth") because of the shape of its port. The first mention of Betina dates back to 1423, when the settlement consisted of only 8 houses. In the 16th century Betina expanded due to refugees from Vrana who fled from the Turks.
Tourist attractions. During your Betina holidays take an opportunity to see the parish church of St. Francis, erected in the 17th century and medieval church of Our Lady of Gradina situated on the nearby Gradina hill. Since ship-building has always played a significant role in the town life, Betina travel would be incomplete without visiting the Betina shipyard which has a 240 ton crane, great facilities and has earned a serious reputation in renovation and repair. Betina is respected for its caulkers - shipbuilders, who make wooden ships. While caulking in the Adriatic is gradually becoming extinct because of the emergence of plastic boats, a small town of Betina is now one of the greatest centers of caulking in Croatia.
Festivals and cultural events. There are some local events which shouldn't be missed by those who happen to spend their holidays in Betina. The third of August is the day when the traditional feast called Brganja Day is celebrated. This event is dedicated to unique species of shells living only in Betina area. The town has an active folklore and cultural association "Zora" whose mission is the preservation of the cultural traditions. A folklore festivals in Betina take place every summer.
Restaurants. The popularity of Betina travel is partially due to the fantastic gastronomic offer of the town. Those who like meat and fish specialties should reserve a table in Restaurant Marinero, a nice place situated in the center of Betina. If you like Italian cuisine, visit Restaurant Riva, where you will be offered excellent pizza, lazagne, shells.
Beaches. Zdrace beach is the main beach in Betina town. Half pebble, half sandy, this beach has a concrete terrace for sunbathing, showers and a cafe-bar. One more beach which is worth mentioning is Plitka vala. The nearby cafe-bar, restaurant, and auto-camping make this beach very popular.
Active vacations. Like other Dalmatian towns, Betina has an incredible sport offer, especially when it comes to water sports. Mini-football field, beach volleyball, basketball and tennis courts, boating, biking, tracks for jogging and routes for cyclists are at your disposal during your Betina holidays. One can also consider various destinations for diving. Those who like boating are strongly recommended to see local regattas during their Betina travel.