Murter Island Travel Guide
The romantic island of Murter lies between Zadar and Sibenik and has an area of 19 sq km. Island Murter travel is as easy as ABC because two large airports of Croatia are not far from the island (Zadar - 60 km, Split - 100 km). If you go by car, choose the comfortable A1 highway.
The significance of the island is testified by the priceless archaeological remains of the Illyric-Roman settlement Colentum. Historians say that in 1298 this area was known as Villa Magna (Big village), and was inhabited by 203 people. The population increased rapidly due to refugees who came there fleeing from the Turks. During its long history the island changed several names: Colentum - Srimac - Mortar - Mortura - Mortaro - Morter - Murter. It was probably named after a heavy mixing bowl used during oil pressing, "mortarium".
Tourist attractions. The island Murter sightseeing spot number one is Colentum, the remains of the ancient Roman town, situated on the northern side of the Hramina bay, near the Gradina hill. If you are interested, visit an exhibition at the Murter library to see the numerous archaeological findings.
Festivals and cultural events. No Murter travel are complete without great events that take place here. For boaters, taking part in the annual Murter-Kornati Regatta held in April is a must. Drama enthusiasts are strongly recommended to visit the Amateur Drama Festival in May. The traditional cultural event St. Rocco which takes place in August is also worth visiting. Latinsko Idro is an event which can not be missed by those who happen to spend their autumn holidays on island Murter. It is a traditional Dalmatian regatta, one of the best in Croatia, which is accompanied by numerous cultural events.
Restaurants. Local caterers have a great offer of fish and meat specialties from Dalmatian and continental cuisine. In the Restaurant Toni (in Tisno), famous for sea food, you will get a superb gastronomic experience. Such island Murter restaurants as Fabro, Mate, Bison, Morski Pas, Zameo ih vjetar, Kezo, Rebac are also very good.
Beaches. Your island Murter holidays will be fantastic due to amazing island Murter beaches. Slanica, a small sandy beach, boasts a big number of visitors. Kosirina beach, partly sandy and partly rocky, is situated between Jezera and Murter town and will be appreciated by those who like clothing optional policy.
Active vacations. Those who prefer active rest won't be disappointed by their decision to spend their holidays in Murter. Tennis courts, football fields, basketball courts and water sports equipment rental are at their disposal here. There are also several diving centers which provide all levels of training. The sport offer of the island also includes windsurfing, bowling, bicycle riding and sailing.
Beautiful nature, the vicinity to Kornati islands, quality accommodation, superb culinary offer, many possibilities for sport and recreation contribute to the incredible popularity of island Murter travel.
The island has four touristic villages, which offer an opportunity for pleasant and peaceful island Murter holidays:
- Murter town, which occupies the island's western part, offers unique possibilities for marvelous holidays at sea.
- Tisno, the youngest village on island Murter, lies on its eastern coast, partly spreading on to the mainland.
- Betina is a popular holiday destination on the island's north-eastern coast.
- The smallest settlement, Jezera, occupies the north-eastern side of island Murter.