Karlobag, a picturesque town located on the Adriatic coast, at the foot of Velebit, continuously invests efforts in enriching its tourist and municipal offer. Recent projects confirm the focus of local and regional authorities towards creating a higher quality environment for both residents and the increasing number of visitors who find Karlobag an ideal place for vacation. One such significant step forward is the newly built pedestrian footbridge, an investment that not only solves practical needs but also adds new aesthetic value to the vista of this pearl beneath Velebit.

The new infrastructural pearl of Karlobag: A pedestrian footbridge worth 150 thousand euros

In Karlobag, the completion of works on the pedestrian footbridge, which now elegantly spans the area between the town's waterfront and the small harbor, was recently celebrated. This project, valued at 150 thousand euros, represents much more than an ordinary municipal structure. With its construction, Karlobag has gained an important element for improving pedestrian safety, as well as an attractive addition that contributes to its tourist appeal. The footbridge is designed to blend harmoniously into the existing ambiance, connecting the pier with the waterfront in a unique way, thereby creating a new, circular promenade that will surely become a favorite spot for residents and tourists. Visitors who decide to explore the charms of Karlobag and seek comfortable accommodation in Karlobag will now have another beautiful location for relaxing walks.

During the tour of the newly built facility, Lika-Senj County Prefect Ernest Petry, accompanied by the Mayor of Karlobag Municipality Boris Smojver, emphasized the importance of such infrastructural undertakings. "Projects like this pedestrian footbridge have a direct and positive impact on the daily life of our local community, as well as on the overall experience that Karlobag offers its visitors. With this bridge, Karlobag has not only gained a functional solution but also a new aesthetic and tourist value that will further enrich the town's offer," stressed Prefect Petry. The bridge's construction allows for the unimpeded passage of smaller vessels, while providing pedestrians with a safe and attractive crossing, opening up new views towards the sea and the mountainous hinterland.

Collaboration to realization: The key to the project's success

The realization of this valuable project is the result of successful cooperation among multiple stakeholders. The Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, Lika-Senj County, and the Municipality of Karlobag joined forces and funds to bring this idea to fruition. The lead partner for the entire project was the Port Authority of Senj, which expertly managed all phases, from design to construction. This model of cooperation shows how joint efforts can achieve significant progress in the development of local infrastructure, which is vital for smaller communities like Karlobag that strive to improve the quality of life and strengthen their tourism potential. Investing in port infrastructure, even through such "smaller" projects as pedestrian bridges, contributes in the long term to a better organization of the coastal area and increases its attractiveness.

Further investments in tourist infrastructure: Renovation of the hotel beach

Activities to improve Karlobag do not stop only at the construction of the footbridge. On the same occasion, during the tour of the town's new infrastructural pride, Prefect Petry and Mayor Smojver formalized further support for the development of tourist capacities. An Agreement on the allocation of funds was signed, by which Lika-Senj County grants the Municipality of Karlobag the amount of 45 thousand euros. These funds are intended for co-financing the renovation works on the hotel beach, which are already underway and whose completion will further raise the quality of the offer for swimmers and all guests spending their vacation in Karlobag. Well-maintained and safe beaches are the foundation of the tourist offer of every coastal town, and this investment confirms Karlobag's strategic commitment to providing its visitors with the best possible conditions. Many tourists pay great attention to the quality of beaches when choosing a destination, so this investment is extremely important for all those who plan to find ideal accommodation in Karlobag and enjoy its seaside pleasures.

The beach renovation includes a series of works that will ensure its functionality, safety, and aesthetic appearance. The renovated beach is expected to attract an even larger number of swimmers and contribute to the general satisfaction of tourists, thereby directly influencing the extension of the tourist season and the increase in tourism revenues. These projects, the footbridge and the beach, are complementary and together represent a significant step forward in positioning Karlobag as a desirable tourist destination that cares about its infrastructure and the needs of its guests.

Karlobag: A blend of tradition, nature, and modern investments

Karlobag is not just a place of new infrastructural projects; it is a point where the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea meets the mighty Velebit mountain, offering a unique blend of Mediterranean and mountain ambiance. A rich history, dating back to ancient times, has left traces visible at every step, from the remains of medieval fortresses to the charming architecture of old stone houses. It is precisely this combination of natural beauty, historical heritage, and continuous investment in modernization that makes Karlobag increasingly attractive. Tourism development here is based on sustainability and the preservation of authenticity, which is recognized by visitors eager for a peaceful vacation, as well as active exploration. Whether it's hiking on Velebit, water sports, or simply enjoying the local gastronomy, Karlobag offers diverse amenities. Therefore, it is not surprising that the demand for apartments and holiday homes in Karlobag is growing year by year.

The improvement of municipal and tourist infrastructure, such as the new pedestrian bridge and beach renovation, directly affects the quality of life of the local population, as well as the attractiveness of the destination for foreign and domestic tourists. The creation of new promenades, the düzenlenmesi of public areas, and the ensuring of a safe environment are prerequisites for further development and progress. Local authorities, in cooperation with county and state levels, show a clear vision for the development of Karlobag as a place that successfully combines its natural and cultural resources with the needs of the modern era.

Remembrance of the foundations of statehood

On the eve of Statehood Day, which is celebrated on May 30th, delegations from Lika-Senj County and the Municipality of Karlobag paid tribute to all those who wove their lives into the foundations of Croatian freedom and independence. On May 29, 2025, at the central cross at the municipal cemetery in Karlobag, by laying a wreath and lighting candles, deep respect was shown to Croatian veterans and all victims who throughout a turbulent history laid down their lives for the Croatian homeland. This solemn act is a reminder of the importance of preserving the memory of those who enabled today's freedom and independence, and of the lasting values on which modern Croatia rests. Commemorating such significant dates in local communities strengthens the sense of community and patriotism, transmitting important messages to future generations.

Such infrastructural projects, like the new footbridge and beach renovation, not only improve the quality of life and the tourist offer but also symbolize the vitality and progress of a community that, valuing its past, builds a better future. Karlobag thus continues its path of development, becoming an increasingly attractive place to live and vacation, where every visitor can find something for themselves, from modern facilities to various accommodation options in Karlobag, which guarantee a pleasant stay.